Ten years ago, I was invited to be a part of an organization that changed my life. Cartooning for Peace was started in 2006 at the United Nations headquarters, in New York, by the French cartoonist Jean Plantu, in the aftermath of the controversy in Denmark about cartoons depicting the Prophet Muhammad. The organization now has a membership of a hundred and forty-seven cartoonists from fifty-five countries. It has become a network of editorial cartoonists who work to insure respect for freedoms everywhere. The cartoons of members are exhibited around the world, and artists often travel to discuss global issues with local cartoonists and the public. The group also provides assistance and support to cartoonists in difficulty or under threat, through a foundation chaired by the former U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan.

Editorial cartoons are a powerful art form because of their ability to transcend languages and cultures, creating a cross-cultural dialogue about fundamental values such as peace, tolerance, and freedom of expression. With the support of the organization, I was honored to curate a selection of work from members of Cartooning for Peace for a celebratory exhibit at the Society of Illustrators. Here are some works from the exhibit, which is currently on display and runs until December 22nd. There will be an opening event and panel discussion with representative cartoonists on December 8th.

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