“True peace … suggests the triumph of justice and love among men; it reveals the existence of a better world where harmony reigns.”
—Maria Montessori, Peace and Education
MARCH 9, 2022—The American Montessori Society stands with the people of Ukraine—both those in Eastern Europe and those of Ukrainian descent around the world. We join countless organizations in the United States and overseas calling for peace.
Dr. Maria Montessori was no stranger to violent conflict, having lived through World War I and World War II. Much of her life was dedicated to peace education as evidenced through her commitment to basic human rights such as freedom, dignity, safety, equitable treatment, and a standard of living adequate for health and wellbeing.
By creating respectful, inclusive classrooms, celebrating diversity in all its forms, crossing cultural boundaries, and modeling engaged citizenry, Montessori educators are called to nurture students who will transform the world and make it a better place for their generation and the generations that follow. As educators and advocates of her pedagogy and the greater Montessori Movement, we must seek to promote peace in our classrooms and communities.
Sincerely,
Munir Shivji
AMS Executive Director
P.S. The AMS Peace & Social Justice Committee supported Kids for Peace in compiling and sending video messages of love and support to share with students in Ukraine.