WASHINGTON – This week, Congresswoman Nikema Williams (GA-05) and Congressman Tim Ryan (OH-13) introduced a resolution commemorating National Nonviolence Week, which occurs annually during the first week of October. The announcement comes on the same day the Norwegian Nobel Committee named the winners of the 2022 Nobel Peace Prize. Congresswoman Williams and Congressman Ryan introduced a similar resolution in 2021 during National Nonviolence Week. Congressman John Lewis historically introduced resolutions to mark National Nonviolence Week during his time in Congress.

The resolution raises awareness of youth violence, the need to become a more peaceful society, and the important role Georgia’s Fifth Congressional District played in America’s history of nonviolent social change. 

Congresswoman Nikema Williams (GA-05) said: 

“Violence in every form is far too pervasive in our country. However, the work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and my friend and predecessor John Lewis, both of whom were champions of nonviolence, can inspire us to create a more peaceful country. I am proud to build off of their legacy every day in Congress but especially during National Nonviolence Week.”  

Congressman Tim Ryan (OH-13) said: 

“National Nonviolence Week is an opportunity for us to come together as Americans to promote the values of nonviolence and recognize the potential of these principles to influence positive social change. I am proud to help introduce this resolution recognizing National Nonviolence Week, raising awareness of youth violence, and honoring the work of the Sojourn to the Past Program and Youngstown students for their relentless advocacy and devotion to advancing peace and justice.”

The resolution reads in part: 

“Whereas the principle of nonviolence has been a core philosophy of many successful social change movements: Now, therefore, be it Resolved, That the House of Representatives—supports the goals and ideals of ‘‘National Nonviolence Week’’ to raise awareness of youth violence in the United States and the benefits of practicing nonviolence principles; and encourages the people of the United States, State and local officials, middle schools and high schools, law enforcement agencies, and other interested groups to observe ‘‘National Nonviolence Week’’ with appropriate programs and activities that promote awareness and prevention of youth violence.” 

Click here to read the text of the resolution. 

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