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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'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 Thomas Merton Center is honoring Bill McKibben, an internationally renowned environmentalist, climate-change expert, and journalist, at their annual Awards Dinner on November 4, 2013; and
WHEREAS, Bill McKibben founded and leads the organization, 350.org, which has been named the "largest global coordinated rally" to fight against climate change with 5,200 simultaneous demonstrations across 181 countries.
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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 Bill McKibben's commitment to a healthy environment for the entire planet; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby declare November 4, 2013 "Bill McKibben Day" in the City of Pittsburgh.