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WHEREAS, the Thomas Merton Center was established in 1972 on Pittsburgh's South Side in order to advocate for a peaceful end to the Vietnam War and support the cause of social justice in Pittsburgh and around the world; and
WHEREAS, the Thomas Merton Center is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, reflecting on 40 years of advocacy for economic, social and environmental justice; and
WHEREAS, the Thomas Merton Center's mission is to raise moral questions surrounding war, poverty, racism, classism, oppression and social justice; and
WHEREAS, Thomas Merton was a 20th century Trappist monk who wrote more than 70 books on spirituality, social justice and quiet pacifism; and
WHEREAS, the Thomas Merton Center's members embody Thomas Merton's guiding principles and values through their advocacy and community partnerships; and
WHEREAS, the Center is currently engaged in over 20 organizing campaigns and projects in the Pittsburgh region and is working to build new coalitions to take on critical issues facing Pittsburgh, Allegheny County, and world.
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NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby recognize the Thomas Merton Center's lasting commitment to peace, prosperity, and justice for Pittsburgh and the world; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby declare December 17, 2012 "Thomas Merton Center Day" in the City of Pittsburgh.