The first Walk for Values was initiated by the Sathya Sai School, Canada, in 2003, to encourage participants to pledge to the practice of a human value for the following year, and to spread awareness of the human values to the public. The walk-a-thon has since spread to 10 cities across Canada and to four continents around the world, involving nearly 40 cities. A wonderful show of unity was displayed at the 11th Annual Walks for Values held during May and June 2013 in the Canadian cities of Cornwall, Ottawa, Toronto, Winnipeg, Saskatoon, Edmonton, Yellowknife and Vancouver. The venues prominently displayed banners and signs on human values.
In Toronto, a stage adorned with colourful flags of countries around the world displayed the unity of various cultures, faiths and ideologies. Several thousand people participated in this event, held in front of the city hall. Members from various faith groups attended the event. A Catholic priest paid homage to Sathya Sai Baba, Jesus, Buddha, Mohammed and other prophets and thanked everyone for bringing joy and happiness to the City of Toronto. The Honourable Jim Karygiannis, Member of Parliament, presented a Certificate from the Government of Canada, commending the Sathya Sai School Parent Council for hosting the Toronto Walk for Values:
For your commitment to fostering a sense of community among Canadians of all backgrounds… to ensure our bright and sustainable future… I know that you will continue to help better the lives of all Canadians, and strive to do the same worldwide.
The processions in Edmonton, Vancouver and Toronto featured mobile floats, attractively decorated, with the names of the five human values (Truth, Right Action, Love, Peace and Nonviolence) prominently displayed. Edmonton’s Walk was held at McIntyre Park, a local hub of the city. In Winnipeg, participants marched in front of the Manitoba Legislative Building and along the beautiful Assiniboine River. In Yellowknife, Sathya Sai devotees joined the Canada Day Parade, carrying banners on human values and quotes from Bhagawan. Saskatoon’s Walk for Values was inaugurated by City Councillor, Mr. Randy Donaeur, who spoke about the importance of practicing human values in daily life.
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