The Boston Research Century for the 21st Century was filled to capacity on September 29, 2007, with women and men, peace activists, scholars, and poets eager to engage in the Fourth Annual Ikeda Forum for Intercultural Dialogue: Women and the Power of Friendship. The forum explored the dynamics of friendship and social change as experienced by women, past and present.

The morning session examined the nineteenth century when women's participation in social reform movements flourished in the United States. How did friendship among women contribute to the work of reform?   To what extent did these friendships break through barriers of race, class, and culture? Presentations about women in the anti-slavery movement and in inner city social work addressed these questions with an eye to learning from the past.

The afternoon was devoted to exploring women's friendships in the twenty-first century when women enjoy greater freedom in the public sphere. A series of activists shared inspiring stories of how human connection can make a difference locally and globally.

This series honors the untiring dialogues for peace undertaken by Buddhist teacher, poet, and BRC founder, Daisaku Ikeda.

• Click here for in-depth summary