Introduction The Image Mission Statement Goals Non-Profit Status— for-profit as of 2005. Introduction The One World Flag is an international symbol of diversity, tolerance, uniqueness, self-esteem, and cooperation which has been endorsed by a growing number of individuals, groups, educational, spiritual and diplomatic leaders for its mission statement, purpose, and widesweeping inspirational effect. Where students on their way home from school have always been able to identify "safe" houses in the neighborhood by a certain symbol placed in a front window, the One World Flag is quickly becoming a soothing reminder to others, stating-- "Diversity, Uniqueness, Tolerance, and Cooperation spoken here." The flag honors the artistic and spiritual paths of each individual (the micro), and at the same time, inspires us to "Think Bigger!" (the macro). It is supportive of those who pursue whole systems living, betterment, empowerment, growth, tolerance, potential, expression and creativity, spirit, etc.... and consciously aims to side-step the fear-based aspects of political, religious, economic, or other limiting beliefs/dogma/agendas. "While the steps of our individual paths may be different, our destination will ultimately be the same." We hope that whatever you are about, you will resonate and identify with this symbol and these concepts that honor the expressions of all; and that you will spend some time visiting and re-visiting this site, learning more about work being done in the name of the flag... and sharing a bit of yourself. [top] The Image Representing sky above and earth below, the circular icon grabs the eye and pulls our attention to center. Like the familiar "yin-yang" symbol and other mandalas, it encompasses all, with everything in balance. Placed within a framework of colors representing the four directions-- as generally agreed upon by Native Americans and many of the world's indigenous peoples-- we are called to continually think and act from a larger perspective. And with the overlapping of these stripes, we are inspired to move forward-- into a future we have always imagined was possible. [top] Mission Statement Intended to be flown above the flags of individual nations, the One World Flag calls us to focus on the larger picture-- that we have more in common as a world than we have differences between nations. Within this context, we may then place the utmost value on the unique qualities of each individual and group. Because the time is now... For a world without borders; For heartfelt communication between people of all nations, without the barriers of language; For solutions that encompass everyone; and For a paradigm shift in the minds of us all, who declare that what has been, serves no more. The time is now... for tearing down the walls, opening our hearts, and to... THINK BIGGER! [top] Goals It is the goal of the One World Flag: * to actually be flown; * to come to be recognized worldwide as a symbol of diversity, tolerance, unity and good work; * to stay vital , evolve with the times, strive to speak to the highest in each of us; * to contribute to the paradigm shift in thinking that is taking shape all around, and inside of, us-- working from the inside out!; * to introduce conversations and implement technologies to improve our ability to communicate, connect, create, expand our comfort zones, change and evolve; *to maintain focused attention on that which is of the highest priority-- the empowerment of every individual to attain their essence; * to continue to donate (via the One World Flag Foundation) a substantial portion of the proceeds from sale of flags, hats, shirts, etc. to the One World Kids programs, and other ventures involved in taking consciousness and quality of life to the next level; * to continue to Think Bigger! That is-- We're allowing for the fact that we can't even imagine what might come out of this work. Up until now, it hasn't been the modus operandi of our species to function at an optimum, positive level for any extended period of time. This is just the tip of the iceberg! We choose to view an uncertain future as a courceof limitless possibility! * to be just one more expression of our aim to live and share a conscious lifestyle. Those who appreciate the vision of this project may also be interested in some of our other work: creative and healing expressions of both myself, David Bartholomew, and my wife, Joan Clark, found at Hyphenate Productions and Joan Clark's Palais Aromaetica. We feel there is little separation between our work and who we are, and hope you will make time to find additional inspiration in these other special places we have created. [top] Non-Profit Status From its inception through 2005, the One World Flag was a nonprofit public charity exempt from federal income tax under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Service Code. Contributions to the One World Flag were tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. We consciously gave up this status in 2005, and are currently for profit. What does this mean?— In most practical ways, it means no change… business as usual. The same percentage of proceeds shall continue to be donated to worthy efforts; enthusiasm for this work is at its highest; etc. The long and short of it is— it was primarily all out-of-pocket anyway, and the paperwork necessary to get reimbursed from only a couple donations over the years, and the ongoing administrative costs, were significant enough to no longer justify the energy drain. But the goals, aims and mission of the flag are clearer and stronger than ever, and are resonating with more and more people, in more and more countries, every day. We continue to hope you will be inspired to “Spread the World!” and help this work to grow. Thank you for your support. — David Bartholomew [top] Home/ Intro/ FAQ's/ News/ Support the Flag/Get Involved/ One World Kids/ Photo Gallery/ Newsletter/Mailing List/ Fly the Flag/Purchase Flags and Items/ About us/ Forum (Guestbook/Bulletin Board Links/ H-Y-P-H-E-N-A-T-E Productions Home Page/ Joan Clark's Palais Aromaetica Home Page/ DoingIt!— a Journal of Positive Living Home Page Contact us