Declaration of Freedom

DECLARATION OF FREEDOM

Whereas, we, dedicated members of the Order of the Knights of Rizal, cognizant of the dire need for an end to the deep troubles that have plagued our fraternal organization since 2002, realizing that all reasonable attempts for a resolution to those problems have all been futile;

Whereas, realizing further that one of the main impediments in finding just solutions to the challenges it faces is the absence or lack of appropriate mechanisms in the corporation to address those problems – that is, the methods of management by which the organization is run are antiquated, colonial in style and do not, as well, take into account the value of the presence, participation and contribution of various ethnic and cultural groups that make up the current membership;

Whereas, it is evident that in order for the organization to overcome its trials and effectively move forward in the pursuit of its cause is to recognize the autonomy of the chapters operating in legal jurisdictions outside the Philippines and as such should be equally represented in a completely revamped structure of leadership; and

Whereas, we believe that in view of the preceding the only practical, realistic and logical step to take is to federalize the organization.

Therefore, in view of the preceding and for the sake of good, efficient and productive governance and a successful future for the cause of Rizalism among the Knights of Rizal, we hereby declare ourselves free from the grip of colonial mentality that marks and dominates the present Order of the Knights of Rizal, and we hereby give our full support to the formation of the International Federation of Knights of Rizal.

Dated this 28th day of February, 2008 in Scarborough, Ontario, Canada.