Tai Ji Men dizi are the best embodiment of the true spirit of multiculturalism. Their role should be acknowledged.
by Willy Fautré
*A paper presented at the webinar “The UN, the Two Covenants, and the Tai Ji Men Case,” co-organized by CESNUR and Human Rights Without Frontiers on October 24, 2024, United Nations Day.
An article already published in Bitter Winter on October 31st, 2024.
The United Nations (UN) was established in 1945, following the devastation of World War II, with the aim of promoting peace, security, and cooperation among nations. Central to its mission is the recognition of cultural diversity and the promotion of multiculturalism. Multiculturalism at the UN not only acknowledges the various cultural identities of its member states but also fosters dialogue, understanding, and collaboration among them.
When Tai Ji Men looks at itself in a mirror, it can see the image of the United Nations on its face because it promotes peace and love, the main foundation of security and solidarity beyond any border. The values of the United Nations cross the path opened decades ago by Dr Hong with his spiritual teachings. Tai Ji Men is not a state but it is a human community that is part of the global human nation, which incarnates the values of the United Nations but also transcends them with its vertical dimension.
The UN Charter emphasizes the importance of promoting social progress, better standards of life, and human rights. These principles inherently support the idea of multiculturalism by recognizing the need for inclusive dialogue among nations with diverse cultural backgrounds.
This is also the DNA of Taiwan, the cradle of Tai Ji Men, which has grown up in its nest until adulthood before spreading to other countries beyond the oceans and sowing the seeds of peace and love taught by Dr Hong. Many dizi have travelled to a lot of countries where they have spread the message of peace and love. They lhave also integrated multiculturalism in their daily life through personal contacts with other youths, speaking other languages, and experiencing other cultures.
Over the decades, the UN has developed various mechanisms to address cultural diversity and promote multiculturalism. The establishment of specialized agencies, such as UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization), highlighted the UN’s recognition of the importance of culture in fostering mutual understanding and respect among nations.
The UN has implemented numerous initiatives to promote multiculturalism and respect for cultural diversity. These initiatives focus on education, cultural exchange, intercultural dialogue, the respect and the protection of cultural heritage and have culminated with the celebration of diversity.
For decades, the dizi of Tai Ji Men have been actively present on these frontlines. The hurdles were and are still numerous.
First, the lack of political will. UN member states often have varying degrees of commitment to multiculturalism, influenced by national interests and political ideologies. Some governments may prioritize national identity over cultural diversity, hindering global cooperation.
Second, cultural imperialism. The dominance of certain cultures, particularly Western cultures, can overshadow local cultures and traditions. This cultural imperialism can lead to the erosion of cultural identities and create tensions between communities.
Third, discrimination and xenophobia. Rising nationalism and xenophobia in various parts of the world pose significant challenges to multiculturalism. The UN must address these trends by promoting dialogue and understanding to combat prejudice and discrimination.
Fourth, resource limitations. Tai Ji Men is only financed by its members but despite this limitation, its achievements are impressive when we compare them with the pledges of the UN member states and their achievements.
In conclusion, multiculturalism is a cornerstone of the United Nations’ mission to promote peace, security, and human rights. Thanks to Dr Hong, Tai Ji Men is on the same page as the United Nations and widely contributes to the awakening of individual consciences, the consciences of the states and of humankind as a whole.