Memorial Service for Daisaku Ikeda Held in Havana, Cuba
On November 28, 2023, a memorial service for Daisaku Ikeda (1928–2023), Soka Gakkai Honorary President and Soka Gakkai International (SGI) President, was held by Oficina del Programa Martíano (OPM) (Office of the Martí Program) in Havana, Cuba. OPM is a national institution dedicated to the promotion of the study of José Martí (1853–1895), who was a poet, essayist and symbol of Cuban liberation.
The memorial service was attended by
Eduardo Torres Cuevas and Héctor Hernández Pardo, director and vice director of
OPM, respectively; Marlene Vázquez Pérez, director of the Centro de Estudios
Martianos; Dinora
González Villar, executive secretary of the José Martí Cultural Society; Joannet
Delgado, general director the Soka Gakkai of the Republic of Cuba; and others.
A condolence book was signed by all those present.
The ceremony
was broadcast on state-run TV, introducing Mr. Ikeda’s achievements and his
June 1996 meeting with then Cuban President Fidel Castro. During their
meeting, President Castro and Mr. Ikeda discussed a wide range of topics,
including fostering capable individuals and political theories.
Prior to the memorial, in a letter of condolence, OPM lauded Mr. Ikeda’s efforts in laying the foundation for an unwavering solidarity toward the betterment of the world, advocating for nuclear disarmament, promoting environmental protection and achieving lasting peace. The letter also acknowledged his steadfast belief in the power of dialogue for resolving conflicts and creating unity. OPM also assured that Mr. Ikeda’s noble legacy would endure and be remembered by the Cuban people. [See Cultural Exchanges for Peace: Cuba on this website.]
Attendees and participants at the memorial service in Havana
[Adapted
from an article in the December 6, 2023, issue of the Seikyo Shimbun,
Soka Gakkai, Japan]
