Arboretum

Fresno State Peace Garden

The concept for a Peace Garden at Fresno State began in 1990 when a bronze memorial was dedicated for Mahatma Gandhi, a prophet of nonviolence and father of the 20th century human rights movement. Located just north of the Library , Fresno State’s Peace Garden stands as an inspiration and tribute to lives devoted to peace and activism.

Mission:

The Peace Garden at Fresno State is a place:

Where members of the campus community (students, faculty, staff, and administration) can gather together for reflection, contemplation, and a peaceful dialogue in a serene environment.
Where we can embrace and celebrate the rich diversity of our life in a manner that enhances the educational experiences of all and promotes understanding, tolerance and mutual respect.
Where we can draw inspiration, energy and stimulation for activism for personal and social change based on the philosophy of nonviolence.
Where we can recognize the contribution of and pay homage to those whose lives and struggles are exemplary in fighting prejudice, discrimination, and oppression, and who have made a significant impact in paving the way for a just and humane social order.

Written by Professor Sudarshan Kapoor, in consultation with the Peace Garden Committee, 1992

Mahatma Gandhi (1869-1948) was a pivotal figure in India’s history and its quest for independence from Britain. He preached passive resistance and employed tactics such as marches and hunger strikes as a form of political protest. His non-violent approach to civil disobedience inspired other movements around the world. His memorial was unveiled on October 2, 1990.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. (1929-1968) was a leader in the civil rights movement of the 1950s and 1960s. Inspired by Gandhi, Dr. King used powerful speeches and other non-violent tactics in the struggle to achieve equal rights for African-Americans. He is portrayed in his ministerial robes, holding a child to symbolize innocence and concern for future generations. Dr. King’s statue was unveiled on January 18, 1998.

Jane Addams (1860-1935) was a social reformer, writer, and international peace advocate. She was co-founder of the social settlement Hull House in Chicago, and was also the first president of the Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom. In 1931, she became the first woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize. Her statue was dedicated on April 6, 2006.

Nelson Mandela (1918-2013) is renowned for his pivotal role in mobilizing resistance against institutionalized racial segregation and discrimination in South Africa. From the harsh conditions of imprisonment, Mandela emerged as a leader dedicated to racial reconciliation and social justice. As South Africa’s first democratically elected president, he led the African National Congress and successfully negotiated the end of apartheid after serving 27 years in prison. Mandela’s relentless efforts to dismantle oppressive laws and create goodwill among all communities show a path forward for uniting our divided societies.

Over time, other distinct features have been added to the Peace Garden. In 2002, two Canary Island pine trees were planted to honor Fresno State alumni Todd Beamer and Navy Lt. Cmdr. Vincent Tolbert. Both were killed in the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.

Fresno State removed the monument to César Chávez in light of the seriousness of reporting. This decision is based on the nature and gravity of the information that has come forward. Fresno State is committed to honoring the legacy and contributions of farmworkers.

Special thanks to Dr. Sudarshan Kapoor, professor emeritus of social work education and peace and conflict studies, who led the efforts for the Peace Garden statues. Each of the garden’s four memorials have been funded through private giving.