January 28, 2022 – On January 22, the world lost a hero of interreligious friendship, the “Thay” or “teacher” Thich Nhat Hanh, a man dedicated to a “just, nonviolent and loving society.”

Known as the leader of the Engaged Buddhism movement, Thich Nhat Hanh helped his diverse students and audiences advance in deeply rooted spirituality while pursuing justice, peace, and love in their society in nonviolent ways.

As he worked with his followers to heal the wounds of war in his native Vietnam, he continued to teach the principle of distinguishing the harmful acts from the essence of their perpetrators, and of extending compassion to the latter.

Our world, which has deep social fault lines and polarization, gross inequalities and injustices, and weapons with enormous destructive power, needs more people like Thich Nhat Hanh dedicated to promoting mutual understanding, empathy, and respect among people.

As the Alliance for Shared Values, we send our heartfelt condolences to Hanh’s students and to all who appreciate his contributions to world spirituality and peace.

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