Honiara, Solomon Islands - UPF-Solomon Islands sponsored a commemoration of the UN International Day of Families on May 15 with families, friends, and Ambassadors for Peace at the New Hope Academy kindergarten in Honiara.
The theme of the 2011 observance was Confronting Family Poverty and Social Exclusion. The UPF-Solomon Islands joined in commemorating this day because it considers the family as a microcosm of the global community and because sustainable peace is grounded in the family as the most intimate social unit, the school of love.
The program was highlighted by the testimonies of three international couples (Solomon Islands-Japan, Solomon Islands-Congo, and Solomon Islands-Papua-New Guinea) who shared how they overcame differences of languages, nationalities, and religions. Mrs. Miki Likaveke, the Japanese wife of Mr. Rence Likaveke, a bus business owner, shared how close she has become to Solomon Islands through giving birth to a child in the Solomon Islands; during that time she received tremendous love and care from the people of the Solomon Islands and her husband. Mrs. Nellie Masuaku, a Solomon Islander and the wife of Mr. Masuaku from the Congo, shared that the loving relationship between husband and wife is the most important thing for the education of children and that it can even overcome poverty.
The program continued with a reading of the message by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, music, and prayers. This was followed by family games and lunch.