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This Month in Soka Gakkai History (May)

Photo by Rob Hendry.

5/3

Soka Gakkai Day

In 1951, Josei Toda is inaugurated as second Soka Gakkai president and declares his lifetime membership goal of 750,000 households. On May 3, 1960, 32-year-old Daisaku Ikeda is inaugurated as third Soka Gakkai president, vowing to advance kosen-rufu. (See The Human Revolution, “Blazing Sun” and “New Dawn” chapters.) 

Soka Gakkai Mother’s Day  

Soka mothers are celebrated every year on May 3 since Ikeda Sensei proposed that it be designated as Soka Gakkai Mother’s Day in 1988.

Soka University of American Opens  

In 2001, Soka University of America opens in Aliso Viejo, California. (See The New Human Revolution, vol. 15, “Soka University” chapter.)  

5/5

Soka Gakkai Successors Day  

In 1976, Sensei announces at a future division meeting that this day be designated Soka Gakkai Successors Day.

50th Anniversary of The Toynbee-Ikeda Dialogue

On this date in 1972, dialogues between Sensei and eminent historian Arnold J. Toynbee begin at Mr. Toynbee’s home in London. The following year, they meet again. Their dialogues are published as the book Choose Life. (See NHR-16, “Dialogue” chapter.)  

5/19

Anniversary of the Soka Gakkai Kosen-rufu Gohonzon  

The Soka Gakkai Kosen-rufu Gohonzon is inscribed in response to the request
of second Soka Gakkai president Josei Toda on his inauguration day. (See The Human Revolution, “Blazing Sun” chapter.)  

5/30

Sensei’s First Visit to China 

In 1974, at the invitation of the China-Japan Friendship Association, Sensei visits China for the first time. (See NHR-20, “Path of Friendship” chapter.)  

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