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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, 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 engages people of diverse philosophies and faiths to find common ground in the struggle to bring about a more peaceful and just world; and
WHEREAS, the Center encourages people to learn, grow and work in the pursuit of social justice and peace to ensure the dignity of all human beings; and
WHEREAS, the Center's work revolves around four key issue areas: 1) To end the wars; 2) Advocate for prisoner rights; 3) To protect the environment; 4) and to fight for economic justice for all;
WHEREAS, on April 13 at a reception at Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall, the Center will award the Thomas Merton Award to Martin Sheen, the well-known celebrity and activist whose passion for peace and justice reflects the mission, vision and core values of the Thomas Merton Center.
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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 April 13, 2013 "Thomas Merton Center Day" in the City of Pittsburgh.