On September 22 and 23, 2009, His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama visited Memphis, TN where he received the International Freedom Award from the National Civil Rights Museum. During his two day visit he gace a public talk on "Developing Peace and Harmony." Memphis political leaders declared September 22 and 23 as Memphis Peace and Harmony Days.

The United Nations has adopted September 21st as an annual day of global ceasefire and non-violence. On September 23, 2009, His Holiness the Dalai Lama received the International Freedom Award froeace and Harmony."

At that time the founder of Pema Karpo Meditation Center, Khenpo Gawang Rinpoche, made a commitment to honor the visit of His Holiness by creating an annual festival of peace and harmony. The purpose of the Memphis Days of Peace & Harmony is to strengthen these two qualities within individuals, families, and societies.