In this lesson, students learn about June 14th celebration and how some people enjoy this holiday in Latin America.
WHAT
IS SACRED HEART DAY?
Latin American countries commemorate Sacred Heart, a celebration with Catholic roots that encourages believers and non-believers to remember the importance of peace and kindness to preserve human-kind.
Latin Americans in countries where this holiday is observed, take advantage of this time to engage in activities that highlight the meaning of peace. During this celebration students usually have assignments to complete from a subject called "Peace studies". Due to this holiday non-profit organizations that promote peace also become relevant, even if they don't have a religious affiliation. Take some time to reflect on the following questions as a group:
What is the meaning of peace for you?
Do you know how your country contributes to peace world wide?
One of the biggest recognitions in the world is The Nobel Prize, and there is a special category for "Peace" in this awards. Watch
this video
about the Nobel Peace Price and talk about the importance of this award.
Is it important to achieve peace?
In which ways can peace be achieved in your school, neighborhood, city?
EXPERIENTIAL ACTIVITY
Watch
this video
about Rigoberta Menchu (1:23 -4:32) and discuss with the group:
What do you know about indigenous communities from Central America?
How do you think these communities live?
What's is Rigoberta Menchu's position regarding Indigenous communities in Politics? Do you agree? Explain your answer.
Using the template in Resource Sheet 1, choose an indigenous/native/aboriginal community from your country and ask students to look for information on the four proposed aspects. Set aside some time for students to present their findings and conclusions to the class.
EXTENSION ACTIVITY
Divide the class in small groups and ask students to imagine they can nominate a candidate for a Peace award. Encourage them to think about someone whose work contributes to achieve peace in society and should be recognized for it. It is valid to nominate a friend, teacher, counselor or anyone from your own community. Fill out the template in Resource Sheet 2 and share the nominations with the whole class.