The American President’s Volunteer Service Award was established in 2003 during George Bush’s presidency. The award is given to individuals who have provided at least 500 hours of voluntary service in the United States and whose work has positively impacted communities and inspired those around them.
Jain Acharya Lokesh Muni has become the first Indian monk to be honoured with the American President’s Gold Volunteer Service Award. The award recognizes Acharya Lokesh Muni’s contribution to the public good and humanity.
The Award Ceremony
- The award ceremony was held in Capitol Hill, Washington, D.C.
- U.S. Congressman Brad Sherman read the certificate and citation issued by American President Joe Biden.
- President Joe Biden congratulated Acharya Lokesh Muni and appreciated his humanitarian work and service to humanity.
Acharya Lokesh Muni’s Acceptance Speech
- In his award acceptance speech, Acharya Lokesh Muni expressed his pride in being honored with the American Presidential Award.
- He stated that the honor is a recognition of Indian culture, spiritual values, and the Jain principles of Lord Mahavir.
About Acharya Lokesh Muni
- Acharya Lokesh Muni is a follower of the Jain religion founded by Lord Mahavira.
- He is a thinker, writer, poet, and social reformer who has been continuously working to build national character, develop human values, and establish non-violence, peace, and mutual cooperation in society.
Ahimsa Vishwa Bharati
- Acharya Lokesh Muni founded the Ahimsa Vishwa Bharati in Gurugram, Haryana.
- The Ahimsa Vishwa Bharati focuses on the four global pillars of non-violence, peace, harmony, and brotherhood in line with Lord Mahavira’s teachings and Indian cultural norms.
The Significance of Capitol Hill and the White House
- Capitol Hill is the home of the legislative branch of the United States federal government, including the Senate and the House of Representatives.
- It is often referred to as the symbol of U.S. democracy and houses the Library of Congress.
- The White House, on the other hand, is the office and residence of the U.S. President, distinct from Capitol Hill.
