Rotary Keokuk Peace Letters, 1931/2 & 2031 (Introduction for the RI Convention, Hamburg, 2019)

Presentation: The global order is showing dissolution, and tensions are on the increase
Help advance the cause of world peace and understanding by learning more about the Keokuk Peace Letters of 1931/2 and 2031. Back in the early 1930s, with nationalism and ideologies that violated human dignity on the rise, RC Keokuk, Iowa, extended their collective hands to their Rotarian friends around the world in a series of 504 “Peace Pipe Letters.” Over 90 years later, Rotary Club Keokuk, Iowa, members are repeating this long-forgotten and beautiful gesture with a current crop of peace pipe letters epitomizing international friendship and understanding. Learn how you, too, can be part of this worldwide Rotary Keokuk Peace Letter Initiative.
www.KeokukPeaceLetters.com
The year is 1931. The results of the global economic crisis have an impact everywhere. Nationalism and ideologies that violate human dignity are on the rise. In the midst of this, the Rotary Club of Keokuk, Iowa sends out 504 letters in late December. Inspired by the Native Americans dealing with conflict, the Rotarians of this small city on the Mississippi extend their hand to their Rotarian friends around the world.
The year is 2019. In view of its bonds across the Atlantic, this same Rotary Club repeats the gesture, sending those who responded to its mailing, 1931/2. The Iowa club feels that this is its duty. After all, the city of Keokuk is named after the Native American chief who chose not to take up the battle axe during times of conflict. The Rotary Keokuk Peace Letters symbolize international friendship and understanding.
The documentation presented here includes the letters from all the clubs that responded to the original initiative and is testimony to its continuing relevance. Contact: Tony Conn or Yogi Reppmann,
www.PeaceConference.us or www.moin-moin.us