The 45-minute program, conducted professionally by student leader Menelik Tafari, celebrated — via video — the accomplishments of Dr. King, Ghandi and the far lesser known Japanese scholar, the only surviving member of the group. While Dr. King’s achievements receive frequent airings in this country, Ghandi’s star has receded in the more than half-century since his death. Prof. Ikeda’s celebrity is strongest among dedicated peace activists.

The Chosen Four

Perhaps most importantly, students in two specialized classes — Conflict Resolution and the Student Intercultural Advisory Committee — were afforded an oratorical platform. Before an audience of students and dignitaries that included School District administrators, the selected students, Vince Heiner, Melina Jimenez, Azeena Hassan and Kenji Igus, gave splendid presentations.

Message from Ikeda

Drawing from a paper written 4 years ago by Prof. Ikeda, Mr. Heiner relayed a central regret expressed by the Japanese activist about what he regards as misplaced national priorities. Through Mr. Heiner, Prof. Ikeda was critical of world leaders who spurn dialogue in favor of more physical solutions.

“In many countries, the priority toward national security has, in recent years, fueled a drive to expand armaments,” Mr. Heiner said. “Increasingly, domestic security concerns are being used to justify curtailment of rights and freedoms.

Look What Has Suffered

“Meanwhile, energy and attention have been distracted from international efforts to address such global issues as poverty and ecological degradation… How can 21st century humankind overcome the crises that face us? There is, of course, no simple solution, no magic wand we can wave to make it all better. The way forward will be perilous. It requires finding an appropriate response to the kind of violence that rejects all attempts at engagement or dialogue.”

On a Diverse Campus

While the objective of Conflict Resolution may be evident, Ms. Jimenez explained the purpose of the Student Intercultural Advisory Committee. On a campus that in recent years has featured an immense rainbow of cultures, ethnicities and the resulting introduction of various customs, Ms. Jimenez said her group has made promotion of “acceptance and understanding” its chief goal.

Turning Thanks Around

For her part, Ms. Hassan saluted a high-profile audience that separately and collectively embraced the tradition of nonviolence and its active promulgation on the Culver High campus.

Saying ‘The End’ With Elegance

A richly appropriate denouement to the unusual afternoon was provided, climactically, by Mr. Igsu.

In student parlance, he said he found it “mindblowing” that the three unelected heroes who were being honored have left a common and distinct legacy that separates them from leaders of government. Dr. King, Ghandi and Prof. Ikeda, said Mr. Igsu, “fought a war on peace with peace.”