ROTARY EDINBURGH PROMOTING WORLD PEACE - 90 YEARS AGO!
ROTARY EDINBURGH PROMOTING WORLD PEACE - 90 YEARS AGO!
ROTARY EDINBURGH PROMOTING WORLD PEACE - 90 YEARS AGO!
In 1935, with war clouds gathering over Europe, the Rotary Club of Edinburgh tried to do its best in promoting international peace.
It decided to write to 81 Rotary Clubs in Italy and France with words of friendship and brotherhood.
The Rotary Club of Brescia in northern Italy were delighted to recently discover a copy of our letter to them in their archives (see pic) and instantly contacted us!
The letter was written in Italian; here’s the English translation.
“At the Rotary Convention held in this city in 1921, the international aspect of our movement was officially proclaimed. It is therefore natural that the members of this Club are deeply interested in the "Sixth Aim."
In common with all thinking people of all nations, we wish to contribute to increasing the spirit of tolerance and benevolence among our neighbours.
As Rotarians, we refuse to believe that ordinary citizens of various nations can harbor hostile feelings toward one another. This is the reason for this letter. As a member of the International Committee and on behalf of our Club, I extend to you and the members of your Club our most sincere and friendly greetings. We are confident that the good sense of the people will prevail and that the clouds darkening the skies of Europe will be dispersed by the firm determination of every man and woman to uphold the cause of peace and universal brotherhood.
Yours in Rotary,
James S. Hogg”
The ‘Sixth Aim of Rotary’ was to advance international understanding, goodwill, and peace, and it’s great to see our club trying to do so!
Ninety years later we again have war raging in Europe and huge international tensions.
Just as it did 90 years ago, Rotary continues to stand for peace - come and join us!
Email us on membership@edinburghrotary.org for more details.
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