Peace Islands Institute

Cultural Diversity Day of MASS
2024-05-29 11:00 - 13:00 UTC
The Cultural Diversity Day of Massachusetts
At The Cultural Diversity Day of Massachusetts, we bring together individuals from all walks of life to engage in meaningful conversations and collaborate towards a better future. Our goal is to celebrate traditions, art forms, and cuisines, promoting learning and breaking down barriers to embrace our shared humanity. By embracing diverse voices, we cultivate fresh perspectives and work towards positive change in addressing pressing challenges. It is an event where people and organizations of different cultural backgrounds come together to showcase their unique heritage through various art forms such as food, music, and dance. The event serves as a platform for individuals to learn about diverse cultures and promote mutual understanding and appreciation for cultural diversity. Join us in creating an inclusive society that values diversity, peace, understanding, and respect. Together, we can build a brighter future where everyone can thrive. Let’s embark on a journey towards a compassionate and interconnected society and unleash the true potential of humanity.

The Cultural Parade. The celebration begins with a grand Cultural Parade that filled the hallways of the Massachusetts State House with a dazzling array of vibrant colors.
Cultural Exhibits. Embark on a journey of awe-inspiring discovery and immerse yourself in a world of enchantment as you explore the diverse cultural exhibits that showcase the rich traditions, mesmerizing history, and exquisite craftsmanship of various communities. Each exhibit serves as a treasure trove of priceless artifacts, traditional objects, and captivating interactive displays that offer a glimpse into the unique customs and rituals that have shaped humanity’s identities throughout history.
Culinary Delights. The Cultural Diversity Day will feature an impressive spread of tantalizing Middle Eastern cuisine from a local restaurant. Attendees will be treated to a mouth-watering variety of traditional dishes, including succulent kebabs, flavorful pilaf, and delectable baklava, among others.
Performances that Mesmerize. The performances will be diverse in nature, ranging from energetic traditional dances that narrated stories of ancient customs to soul-stirring music that touched the core of the heart. Each performance will be a testament to the power of artistic expression and the universal language of emotions, leaving attendees feeling completely in awe.
A Celebration of Unity. The Cultural Diversity Day is a remarkable event that goes beyond simply showcasing the diverse cultures of our community. It is a day that brings together people from all walks of life and celebrates the power of unity. It is a time when we set aside our differences and focus on the things that unite us. It reminds us that despite our unique backgrounds, we are all part of a larger human family, and together, we can create a world that is inclusive and harmonious. This event will serve as a stepping stone for future endeavors, where we will continue to explore, learn, and foster a sense of belonging in our community.

Date: Wednesday, May 29, 2024
Time: 11:00 AM – 1.00 PM
Location: Great Hall, Massachusetts State House, 24 Beacon St, Boston, MA 02133
We cordially invite you to join us for The Cultural Diversity Day of Massachusetts, a celebration of art and culture that promises a mesmerizing day of cross-cultural exploration. At The Cultural Diversity Day of Massachusetts, we bring together individuals from all walks of life to engage in meaningful conversations and collaborate towards a better future. Our goal is to celebrate traditions, art forms, and cuisines, promoting learning and breaking down barriers to embrace our shared humanity. By embracing diverse voices, we cultivate fresh perspectives and work towards positive change in addressing pressing challenges. It is an event where people and organizations of different cultural backgrounds come together to showcase their unique heritage through various art forms such as food, music, and dance.
Organizing Committee
Peace Islands Institute Boston
Email: info@piima.org
Tel:+16175992701
HOSTS

Senator Lydia Edwards
Rep. Jessica Ann Giannino
Rep. Jeffrey Rosario Turco
Rep. Daniel J. Ryan
Peace Islands Institute Boston

PARTICIPATING ETHNIC COMMUNITIES & SUPPORTING ORGANIZATIONS

Azerbaijani Community represented by ASNE and ACC
Kyrgyz Community of Boston and New England
Chinese Community represented by China Culture Connection
Kazakh Community represented by Turkicstan Center
Uzbek Community represented by Turan Association
Turkish Community represented by Turkish Cultural Center
Albanian Community
Indonesian Community
Haitian Community
Indian Community
Moroccan Community
Boston Dialogue Foundation (supporting organization)
Muslim Women of Boston (supporting organization)
More to join

11:00 AM – 11:30 AM:
The event starts with the cultural exhibit
11:30 AM – 12:00 PM:
The emcee (Armaya Doremi) opens the event and invites the singer of the National Anthem
The emcee invites host speakers:

Remarks from Jessica Ann Giannino, The State Representative of the 16th Suffolk District of Boston
Remarks from Lydia Edwards, The State Senator of the 3rd Suffolk District of Boston
Remarks from Jeffrey Rosario Turco, The State Representative of the 19th Suffolk District of Boston
Remarks from Daniel J. Ryan, The State Representative of the 2nd Suffolk District of Boston
Remarks from Zhanat Zhapparov, an executive of Peace Islands Institute Boston

12:0PM – 12:45 PM:
The emcee invites cultural performers in alphabetical order
12:45 PM – 1:00 PM
The emcee invites Rep. Jessica & Zhanat to give certificates to all performers and have a group photo. Emcee closes the event
1:PM – 1:30 PM

Complimentary Lunch

Nearby parking options are listed below:
LAZ Parking – Ashburton Lot
12 Ashburton Place
Outdoor Lot
SP PLUS Parking – 100 Cambridge Street Parking Facility
30 Somerset Street
Indoor Garage
LAZ Parking
73 Tremont Place
Indoor Garage — Valet Parking
VPNE Beacon Street Lot
17 Beacon Street
Outdoor Lot — Valet Parking
Boston Common Garage
0 Charles St (between Boylston St-Beacon St)
Directions
By Foot

The State House is located within short walking distances of several MBTA stations, including Park Street, Downtown Crossing, Government Center, Bowdoin (restricted hours), Boylston, Haymarket and State.

By MBTA

The State House is easily accessible by public transportation.
The State House can be reached by the MBTA bus lines, the Green Line, the Orange Line, the Red Line and Silver Line. Visitors can also reach the State House via commuter rail lines arriving at South Station, North Station and Back Bay Station, each of these stations being within walking distance of Beacon Hill. Connecting lines from these stations are also available and will take you to Downtown Crossing, Park Street and Government Center, bringing you even closer to the State House.
Further details, including interactive maps, can be obtained by clicking on the links below.

Park Street (Green and Red Lines)
Downtown Crossing (Orange, Red, and Silver Lines)
Government Center (Blue and Green Lines)
Silver Line (SL4 and SL5 routes run with close proximity to the State House)

Bus Lines: (Many MBTA bus routes pass through or terminate in downtown Boston, either within walking distance of the State House or to connecting lines that can bring you even closer to the State House. Routes 43 and 55 are the only bus routes that stop directly across the street from the State House.

MBTA bus schedules and maps
MBTA bus route 43
MBTA bus route 55

By Car

From the North

From Interstate 93 South, take Exit 26, following signs towards Storrow Drive. Staying in the left lane through the tunnel, take the Government Center exit that comes up almost immediately on your left. Travelling straight across the intersection and under the Red Line T stop, continue up Charles Street for five blocks through the shopping district, taking a left turn onto Beacon Street. The State House is on the left at the top of the hill.

From the South

From Interstate 93 North, take Exit 23 from the Tip O’Neill Tunnel towards Government Center, staying in the left lane and bearing left as you approach street level. At the traffic light, continue straight across the intersection through two more traffic lights and take a left turn onto Congress Street. At the end of the block, take a right turn at the traffic light. With the Old State House on your left, travel a short distance up State Street and cross Washington Street at the light. State Street now becomes Court Street. Take a left turn at the next traffic light onto Tremont Street. Continue through two more sets of lights, taking a right at the third set onto Park Street. The State House is at the top of the hill.

From the West

From the Massachusetts Turnpike (Interstate 90), take Exit 22 towards Copley Square and continue straight, along Stuart Street, through five sets of traffic lights, taking a left turn at the sixth one onto Charles Street. Continue through two sets of lights and take a right turn onto Beacon Street at the third. The State House is on the left at the top of the hill.

From Logan Airport and the North Shore via Sumner Tunnel

Take the Sumner Tunnel towards Boston and follow the signs for Government Center, taking a left at the first traffic light onto New Chardon. Take a left at the second traffic light onto Congress Street. Continue on Congress through three sets of lights, passing Boston City Hall on your right. At the fourth light, takes a right onto State Street. With the Old State House on your left, travel a short distance up State Street and cross Washington Street at the light. State Street now becomes Court Street. Take a left turn at the next trafic light onto Tremont Street. Continue through two more sets of lights, taking a right at the third set onto Park Street. The State House is at the top of the hill.

From Logan Airport and the North Shore via the Ted Williams Tunnel

Take the Ted Williams Tunnel west towards Boston and the Massachusetts Turnpike (Interstate 90), staying on the right and carefully following the signs for Interstate 93 North. From Interstate 93 North, take Exit 23 from the Tip O’Neill Tunnel towards Government Center, staying in the left lane and bearing left as you approach street level. At the traffic light, continue straight across the intersection, through two more traffic lights, and take a left turn onto Congress Street. At the end of the block, take a right turn at the traffic light. With the Old State House on your left, travel a short distance up State Street and cross Washington Street at the light. State Street now becomes Court Street. Take a left turn at the next traffic light onto Tremont Street. Continue through two more sets of lights, taking a right at the third set onto Park Street. The State House is at the top of the hill.

From the Northwest

Take Route 2 East into Cambridge, along Fresh Pond Parkway. Cross the Elliot Bridge onto Soldiers Field Road in Boston which becomes Storrow Drive. Shortly after emerging from the Arlington Street underpass stay to the right and take the Government Center exit at David Mugar Way onto Charles Circle. Take a right turn onto Charles Street. Continue up Charles Street for five blocks through the shopping district, taking a left turn onto Beacon Street. The State House is on the left at the top of the hill.

Rumi Evening – The Whirling Dervish
2025-12-19 18:00 - 20:00
Rumi Evening – The Whirling Dervish

“Love is the bridge between you and everything.” – Rumi
Join us for a spiritual and musical evening inspired by the life and poetry of Jalaluddin Rumi. Experience the graceful whirling dervish (Sema) ceremony, reflections on Rumi’s message of love and unity, and uplifting music.
Date: Thursday, December 19, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Venue: Central Congregational Church, UCC – Fellowship Hall
Address: One Worthen Street, Chelmsford, MA 01824
Program Includes:

Whirling dervish (Sema) performance
Spiritual readings from Rumi
Musical presentations
Short talk on Rumi’s message of love and compassion
Tea and light refreshments

All are welcome – people of all faiths and backgrounds.
RSVP

Community Iftar Dinner
2026-03-07 17:00 - 19:00 | North Church, Woburn, 896 Main Street, Woburn, MA, 01801, United States
Dear Neighbors and Friends,
This week begins the current month-long observance of Ramadan in our Muslim community. And we are delighted to share an invitation to a special Community Interfaith Iftar Dinner, a meaningful evening of reflection, connection, and shared meal as we break fast together during the month of Ramadan. The dinner will be taking place on Saturday, March 7th from 5:00-7:00pm at North Church, 896 Main St., Woburn.
This interfaith community gathering is being hosted by Peace Islands Institute, Boston Dialogue Foundation, North Church, Woburn (United Church of Christ), and Know Your Neighbor Woburn. Neighbors of all faiths and backgrounds are welcome to come together around the table to share a meal, hear reflections from faith and community leaders, and engage in meaningful conversations that foster mutual understanding, respect, and lasting community.
The event flyer is attached – please share widely.
Event Details
📅 Saturday, March 7
🕔 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
📍 North Church, Woburn
896 Main Street, Woburn, MA 01801
This event is dinner is free – and all are welcome.
Please click here to RSVP and help with meal planning.
We would be honored by your presence and look forward to sharing this special evening with you.

Trip to Tanzania
2026-05-23 - 2026-05-31
Event: Trip to Tanzania
Date: May 23 – 31, 2026
Price: $2000+Airline Tickets
You are cordially invited to join us on a remarkable journey to Tanzania from May 23rd to May 31st, 2026!
Experience the best of Tanzania with our exclusive trip that combines the thrill of safari adventures with the beauty of the Zanzibar Islands, along with enriching cultural exchange opportunities.
Throughout this 9-day journey, you will have the opportunity to:

Visit Dar for Mikumi National Park
Experience the culture and history of a Maasai village
Enjoy a safari at Mikumi, Bagamoyo city tour, and other sightseeing activities
Visit Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site
Explore Prison Island, home to century-old tortoises and beautiful swimming spots
Discover the Blue Lagoon and Spice Farm
Participate in humanitarian work, including orphanage and school visits, water well openings, and hunger relief activities

What’s Included:

All meals
Park and museum fees
Professional driver and guide
In-country transportation
Accommodation

Not Included:

International airfare ($2,000)
Personal shopping (souvenirs, gifts, etc.)
Travel insurance and visa fees
Vaccinations (if needed)

How to Apply:

Complete the application form (no payment required):👉 FORM

After submission, you’ll receive an agreement form.A $500 deposit is required to secure your spot; the remaining balance is due one month before the trip.

For inquiries, please contact:📧 info@piiboston.org | 📞 +1 (814) 844-7980

Learn the Art of Calligraphy!
2026-08-25 08:00 - 2028-10-01 17:00
Have you ever wanted to create beautiful, elegant lettering with your own hands? Join us for an 8-week Calligraphy Course, designed especially for beginners!
🖋️ Learn italic calligraphy
📖 Workbook & practice materials included
✍️ Hands-on instruction and feedback
🎨 Develop your creativity and lettering skills
📍 Azerbaijan Cultural Center, Allston, MA
💰 $450 for the 8-week program
Taught by Benjamin Aysan, Calligrapher & Lettering Artist.
No previous experience is required—just bring your creativity and a willingness to learn!
👉 Register here:
Event Registration
#Calligraphy #CalligraphyCourse #LearnCalligraphy #HandLettering #CreativeArts #AllstonMA #ArtClasses #BeginnerCalligraphy

Discover the Beauty of Calligraphy!
2026-08-25 08:00 - 2028-10-01 17:00
Join us for a relaxing and creative Calligraphy Workshop with calligrapher and lettering artist Benjamin Aysan! 🖋️
Whether you’re a complete beginner or simply want to explore the art of beautiful writing, this hands-on workshop is a wonderful opportunity to learn, create, and take home your own masterpiece.
✨ What’s Included?
🖋️ All calligraphy materials provided
📖 Calligraphy workbook & pen — yours to keep
✍️ Beginner-friendly, step-by-step instruction
🎨 Create your own artwork on cardstock, canvas, or a ceramic plate
🎁 Take your finished masterpiece home
⏰ Approximately 2 hours
💵 $69 per person
📍 Azerbaijan Cultural Center – Allston, MA
Everything is included — just bring your creativity!
🎟️ Register & get your ticket here:
Eventbrite Registration
Bring a friend and spend a couple of hours discovering the beauty of calligraphy. 💙
#Calligraphy #CalligraphyWorkshop #BostonEvents #Allston #ArtWorkshop #HandLettering #CreativeWorkshop

Common Roots of Islam & Judaism
2026-08-31 19:00 - 21:00
A special interfaith lecture and discussion exploring the shared history, traditions, and deep connections between Islam and Judaism.
In a time of rising antisemitism and Islamophobia, understanding our shared heritage is more critical than ever. Join us for a meaningful evening with Rabbi Leonard Gordon as he explores how much more similar Islam and Judaism truly are.
Rabbi Gordon serves as Chair of the National Council of Synagogues, facilitating interfaith dialogue for Reform, Reconstructionist, and Conservative Jewish communities. A dedicated interfaith builder, he frequently teaches Introduction to Islam to Jewish audiences and leads international interfaith journeys.
Event Details

Date & Time: Monday, August 31, 2026 at 7:00 PM

Location: Temple Israel, 125 Pond Street, Sharon, MA 02067

Hosts: New England Region of FJMC (NERFJMC) & Peace Islands Institute

Refreshments: Delicious food will be served

Admission: Free for Peace Islands members

RSVP & Registration

RSVP Deadline: August 26, 2026

Contact: Email treasurer@nerfjmc.org

Mail Inquiries / Checks: NERFJMC, 162 South Main Street, Sharon, MA 02067

Abraham’s Table: A Year of Interfaith Dialogue
2026-09-16 19:00 - 21:00
Abraham’s Table: A Year of Dialogue. One Table. Many Faiths.
Join us for the launch of Abraham’s Table, a year-long interfaith dialogue series bringing people of different faiths and backgrounds together around one table for meaningful conversation, connection, and community.
Our September gathering will explore the theme:
Compassion in Action
The evening will begin with dinner, followed by three short presentations from our invited speakers and an open Q&A and community dialogue.
🎤 Invited Speakers:
* İbrahim Sayar — Chaplain, MA, BCC at Boston Children’s Hospital
* Dorothy C. Buck, PhD — Spirituality and Interfaith Dialogue Author, Mental Health Practitioner & Pastoral Counselor
* Rabbi Leonard Gordon, D.Min. — Chair, National Council of Synagogues
📅 Wednesday, September 16
⏰ 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
📍 Azerbaijan Cultural Center
320 Washington Street, Brighton, MA 02135
🍽️ 7:00 PM — Welcome & Dinner
🎤 7:45 PM — Three 10-Minute Presentations
💬 8:15 PM — Q&A & Community Dialogue
🕘 9:00 PM — Program Concl
RSVP

Cultural Diversity Day at the Massachusetts State House
2026-09-23 11:00 - 14:00
Cultural Diversity Day at the Massachusetts State House!
Join us for a special celebration of the many cultures, traditions, and communities that make Massachusetts such a vibrant place to call home!
Cultural Diversity Day will bring together community organizations, civic leaders, and people from diverse backgrounds for a day of culture, connection, dialogue, and community at the Massachusetts State House.
📅 Wednesday, September 23, 2026
⏰ 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
📍 Massachusetts State House
Grand Staircase & Great Hall
The event will also bring together a diverse group of community organizations from across Massachusetts, creating an opportunity to meet one another, celebrate our differences, and strengthen our communities together.
🤝 All are welcome!
Space is limited, so please RSVP in advance.
👉 RSVP here:
https://forms.gle/DKADcNy4mF5n1zXX6
Come celebrate the cultures and communities that make Massachusetts stronger. We look forward to seeing you at the State House!
#CulturalDiversityDay #Massachusetts #Boston #MassachusettsStateHouse #CulturalDiversity #Community #BuildingBridges #InterculturalDialogue #BostonEvents #StrongerTogeth

Flavors Without Borders: A Multicultural Cooking Class Series
2026-09-26 15:00 - 17:00
Join Peace Islands Institute Boston for a hands-on cooking experience where food, culture, and community come together!
For this class, we’ll prepare two delicious favorites together:
🍲 Red Lentil Soup
🥔 Potato Salad
Whether you love cooking, want to learn something new, or simply enjoy meeting new people over good food, all are welcome! No special cooking experience is needed.
📅 Saturday, September 26
⏰ 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
📍 Azerbaijan Cultural Center
💵 $45 per person
Come ready to learn, cook, connect, and enjoy the meal together!
🎟️ Space is limited — register today:
Get Your Ticket on Eventbrite
Learn. Cook. Connect. 🌎🍽️
#CookingClass #BostonEvents #Multicultural #FoodAndCulture #Community #PeaceIslandsInstitute #Boston #CookingTogether
