An Ahimsa Crisis: You Decide: A Call To Action

When so much is at stake, we cannot be just spectators. If Rome were burning, we would not merely enjoy the show. We must take charge and start with action plans. I offer the following list (simply one person’s thinking), which by no means is complete. In fact it is a very meager attempt to get the community to do some brainstorming in response. I am sure by brain storming by like-minded people, this list can become quite impressive and big. My ideas include:

1. Make awareness, teaching, and training in ahimsa as our first priority. This should be done in all sermons, lectures, and at each and every place of worship.
   
   
2. Several organizations and institutions should hold regular seminars on how ahimsa can and should be practiced in the professions.
   
   
3. Establish Ahimsa Vichaar Munch (ahimsa discussion groups) at each Jain center.
   
   
4. Create and raise up at least one hundred role models who can inspire others about ahimsa.
   
   
5. Write, create, and share books, articles, videos, CDs, DVDs, songs, movies, podcasts, webinars, and blogs about ahimsa.
   
   
6. Persuade at least one hundred sadhus/sadhivis of all Jain sects to become vegans and start preaching about it, and thus become catalysts for change.
   
   
7. Create, maintain, and share forums and discussion groups on the internet for all Jains to share ideas and learn from each other.
   
   
8. Collect data about individuals (monks, nuns, and lay people) who practice, preach, promote ahimsa and do some significant and exemplary work and projects towards an ahimsak way of life (AWOL).
   
   
9. To help kick start and promote a pure ahimsak (Jain vegan) lifestyle, we should think of organizing teaching camps, shivirs, and programs of two-three week duration.
   
   
10. Impart the grounding in ahimsa in young minds at a very early age.
    
    
11. Collaborate with like-minded ahimsak organizations and groups world over.
    
    
12. Establish recognition and awards for exemplary and exceptional work and the demonstrable practice of ahimsa.
    
    
13. Individuals communities should become watch dog groups about ahimsa and should not give honors to those who break the cardinal principle of ahimsa.
    
    
14. Establish full-fledged year round centers that conduct and share research in today’s needs for ahimsa, and impart teaching and training and monitor its progress.