Press Release (Released March 2, 2023)
PEACE AND JUSTICE INSTITUTE FORMS AS NONPROFIT ENTITY
Mayor Dyer Announces Peace and Justice Institute Day
ORLANDO, March 2nd, 2023 – The Peace and Justice Institute (PJI) announced today that it has formed as a nonprofit. This is the next step in the organization’s long-term vision of continued growth, innovation and transformation. PJI’s work will continue without interruption and plans for expansion are in place. Under this new status they will operate independently from Valencia College.
Additionally, Mayor Buddy Dyer proclaimed March 2nd as Peace and Justice Institute Day for Orlando, Florida.
“We are so thrilled for this honor from Mayor Dyer. It’s a true reflection of the important work we've put in over the years,” said Rachel C. Allen, Executive Director of the Peace and Justice Institute. “It means a lot to be recognized throughout this community that means so much to us.”
PJI was formed in Orlando more than 15 years ago. Transforming it into a nonprofit entity is a plan that has long been in place to further its work of cultivating a culture of peace, resilience and belonging where all people, all voices, all matter.
“Two years ago we sat down with Valencia to discuss this pathway and our future growth,” said Allen. “We knew this would allow us to broaden the work and bring our programs to more people within our region and across the country.”
PJI is planning to expand programs like its Resilience Network and Annual Conference, the PJI Teachers Academy and corporate training, while continuing to offer existing programs, workshops and educational opportunities, such as retreats, leadership training, community dialogue, and conflict transformation.
“The City of Orlando has partnered with the Peace and Justice Institute for nearly a decade. We are proud to honor PJI’s 15th anniversary and its new status as a nonprofit organization,” said Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer. “PJI’s commitment to honoring the dignity of all people, and educating for peace, justice, and resilience helps to further our efforts to ensure Orlando and Central Florida is a community for everyone that embraces diversity and promotes equity for all.”
As part of the Institute’s transformation, it has created a 10-year vision that encompasses the scope of its future plans. This vision is, “The Peace and Justice Institute will be a leading institute in the United States developing individuals, leaders, organizations, and communities to cultivate the culture of peace, resilience, and belonging where all people, all voices, all matter.”
“We’re grateful for our years with Valencia College,” said Allen. “Looking ahead, we’re proud to continue this essential work and move toward our expanded vision. It’s exciting to see PJI flourish and establish its place in the future of our region, nation and world.”
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To watch a video from PJI Director Rachel C. Allen sharing this exciting news, click on the video below.
PJI is also proud to share its latest PJI Journal, a bi-annual print and digital magazine. This edition of the magazine features an article about the CRC Network and the intersection of peace building and trauma healing (on pages 6-9).
Read the Journal here or in the attachment below.
For a PDF copy of the Proclamation from the City of Orlando, Office of the Mayor, see the attachment below.
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