31.03.03
from rus. Internet-forum "Grani Epohi - Network 54"

Control over the Banner of Peace symbol

To the members of the "Network 54" forum.
I was asked more than a week ago to describe instances in which our Museum used its control over the Banner of Peace symbol to prevent its misuse. I was unable to respond before leaving to attend an annual March 24th Agni Yoga meeting in Puerto Rico, and promised to do so immediately upon my return. I apologize for the delay, but there was no time to answer before leaving.

First, I have to repeat important facts that were mentioned by me previously. First, we had a "service mark" registered not for the Banner symbol alone, but for the symbol with Pax Cultura below it as its motto. That is the logo of the Museum, given to us by Nicholas Roerich himself. We were not able to register the symbol alone, because it is a universal symbol, like a Christian cross or a Hindu AUM sign, and not subject to ownership.

Even so, those fine distinctions are not often known by people, and the symbol itself is widely identified in the people's consciousness as being part of the Museum's identity. We always encouraged people and groups to use the symbol, to spread awareness of its existence and meaning. But we occasionally objected to its use when that use was seen by us as misuse.

One example will be sufficient. During the Vietnam War, there were peace demonstrations and marches in all cities, almost continuously. Many of those activities were intentionally violent, because peaceful protest had so little effect. Occasionally, the most violent groups used the Banner during their demonstrations, and we (not I -- I was not yet in any position of authority) decided that it was an improper way to use the Banner and the symbol, since its purpose was never a violent one. We were able to persuade some groups to stop using the Banner.

The situation today is almost the same. There are many demonstrations and marches against the war in Iraq, and in those marches one can see the Banner pin on the lapels of many people. The Banner itself is also sometimes carried. None of these demonstrations have become violent, but they certainly will, as the frustration of the people increases and they try to stop the war. We once again will try to persuade people who misuse the Banner from doing so. The Banner's message is Peace through Culture, not Peace through Violence.

Anyone who has further questions about this is welcome to write to me at director@roerich.org.

Best wishes,

Daniel Entin, Director
Nicholas Roerich Museum

 

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