October, the 2nd, CGE has chosen to celebrate the international day of non violence. CGE has chosen to celebrate this occasion not only as a tribute to a universal cause but because nonviolence is at the heart of everything we do since our foundation.
CGE and non-violence as a core principle
As an organization, we have been committed from the very beginning to promoting the values of peace, mutual respect, and the integration of different cultures. For us, nonviolence is not just an abstract principle but a daily practice that we strive to live in all our activities. We aim to create a space where everyone, regardless of their background, feels welcomed and respected, where diversity is not seen as an obstacle, but as a resource. The ‘Dinner of Culture’ is one of the ways we concretely express this commitment. Our team, in fact, is made up of people from all over the world, with different cultures, traditions, and histories. Despite our differences, what unites us is the belief that peaceful coexistence and the integration of peoples are fundamental for building a better future. In CGE, diversity has never been seen as a factor of division, but as a wealth that allows us to learn from each other and grow together. It is precisely thanks to this diversity that we have been able to build a true family, united not only by a common mission but also by the deep respect we have for one another.
The program of the Event
Workshop and discussion “A journey through the past”
The program of the event was structured in several activities. Firstly Boris Malinovski, one of CGE members presented the Yugoslav conflict, focusing on the transformation of Yugoslavia from the early 1990s to the present day. A significant portion of the workshop was dedicated to the conflict that shook Yugoslavia in the 1990s and early 2000s, and how this region of Europe has gradually healed its wounds step by step. Additionally, part of the workshop addressed the current situation, describing some of the ongoing issues faced by the former belligerent states and speculating on potential future solutions, emphasizing nonviolence and mutual respect.
Exibition “postcards for everyday peace”
After this first part, participants were invited to the opening of the exhibition “The postcard for everyday peace”, which presented one of the results from the “Semillero – Everyday Practical Peacebuilding” solidarity project, funded through the European Solidarity Corp program. We invited Dr. Alejandra Ortiz-Ayala a professor at the University of Erfurt and a researcher in the field of peace and reconciliation, who also supervised the project. Dr. Ortiz-Ayala’s talk was very insightful, not only because she is a professional in the field of peace and resolution but also due to her direct experience over the years, having participated in numerous workshops and training courses. Furthermore, Dr. Ortiz-Ayala is Colombian, from a country that is still suffering from a violent internal conflict, which seems to be dragging on longer and longer. During her speech to the guests, she captivated us by speaking about the need for peace, but, more importantly, for reconciliation. She also clarified that making peace is not the same as reconciling, as the former implies a temporary cessation of hostilities, while the latter signifies a true cessation of hostilities, brought about by a mutual willingness to start anew together.
A cup of cacao that creates bonds beyond borders
Right after Dr. Ortiz-Ayala’s speech, we had the privilege of hosting a cacao ceremony conducted by two workers from an Ecuadorian NGO calle “Cacao Source”, dedicated to protecting cacao and indigenous practices surrounding its use. It was a touching and significant moment. Essentially, each participant was given a cup of cacao to drink, and just before drinking it, each of us had to say a word for which we are grateful, such as love, peace, freedom, and so on.
Dinner of culture as intervention for peacebuilding
Finally we proceed to the next activity: “The Dinner of Cultures”. The dinner began following a specific format: each guest, coming from a different country, introduced their national dish to the participants, explaining its preparation and ingredients. After all the dishes were presented, we were finally able to sit down at the table and enjoy the meal together.
The meaning of food sharing
Celebrating multiculturalism and nonviolence through the ‘Dinner of Culture’ is not just a symbolic gesture for us, but a living testament to how nonviolence can be applied in everyday life. During this event, each participant brings with them a piece of their culture, a traditional dish that tells a story, a family, a connection to their past. But it’s not just the food that speaks; it’s the very idea of sharing a moment together, of putting aside any differences to build a stronger bond, based on respect and mutual solidarity. At CGE, we believe that through small daily gestures like this, we can break down the walls of distrust and build bridges of peace between different cultures. For us, nonviolence also means listening, putting ourselves in others’ shoes, and embracing diversity without prejudice. It’s not just about avoiding physical conflict, but also about promoting a culture of understanding, empathy, and dialogue. Every time we sit together at a table, as we do during the ‘Dinner of Culture,’ we are affirming that our differences do not separate us, but enrich us. This is the true spirit of nonviolence: to unite, not divide; to create opportunities for meeting, not for separation. In a world that often seems divided by conflict and misunderstanding, the ‘Dinner of Culture’ is our way of saying that peace and harmony are possible, that through dialogue and mutual respect we can overcome any cultural barrier. By celebrating nonviolence, we not only pay tribute to Gandhi’s memory, but we remind ourselves and everyone who participates that another way of living together is possible. A way based on listening, sharing, respect, and, above all, peace.”
The activity is cofounded by the European Union through the Erasmus+ Program
