In 2007, the United Nations passed a resolution (A/RES/61/271) establishing October 2nd as the annual International Day of Non-Violence. The Day is highlighted as part of the UN’s work for a culture of peace, and is connected to the International Decade for a Culture of Peace and Non-Violence for the Children of the World, 2001-2010. October 2nd is the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi, leader of the Indian independence movement and pioneer of the philosophy and stategy of non-violence. Governments, organizations and individuals are invited to commemorate the Day and to spread the message of non-violence through its education and public awareness. For more information, please visit the UN pages.