Category Archives: FREE FLOW OF INFORMATION

Mexico: Peace banners in the schools of Cobaem

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An article from IMARX

Responding to the challenge by Governor Silvano Aureoles Conejo to inculcate a culture of peace, the College of Bachelors of the State of Michoacán (Cobaem) is distributing buttons to young people who have committed to become conflict mediators and peace promoters.

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This was launched in the context of the conference “Together We Build Peace”, featuring Claudia Torres Orihuela Bricia, national youth coordinator of the International Committee of the Banner of Peace which begins the “peace banners” initiative for 125 schools of Cobaem to take place in November.

She explained that next month the 50 thousand students will be pioneers in the “Together We Build Peace”, a project of the International Committee of the Banner of Peace.

In his speech, the director general of Cobaem, Alejandro Bustos Aguilar, said t students, parents, teachers, managers and administrative staff of the subsystem should advance towards recognition of diversity on a daily basis.

“In Cobaem we seek to build a way in which humans can live without violence, and I am sure that soon we will have to have a culture of peace, which will institutionalize and give another dimension to the educational system,” said Bustos Aguilar .

Finally, he announced that on 10 and 11 November there will be a “Youth Meeting for Peace” in Morelia to be attended by thousand students who will participate in conferences, debates and essay and story contests.

(Click here for a Spanish version of this article

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FREE FLOW OF INFORMATION, Latin America

Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo: The commemoration of the International Day of Peace

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Excerpts from a report sent to CPNN by Patrick Mulemeri, Congo Peace Network (translated by CPNN)

For the commemoration of the International Day of Peace, activities were held September 21, 2016, in the great hall of MWANGA college. 271 people attended, mainly composed young members of the CPN clubs [Congo Peace Network], their families, guests from partner organizations (Christian AID, UNJHRO, Counterpart International …), the delegation of the University students for peace and social sciences in Butare in Rwanda, as well as local authorities and young people from different local churches.

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Six young local musicians began the celebration
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After presentations of music, poetry and literature and accompanied by an exposition of artwork for peace, there were a series of speeches for peace.

Speeches by young university peace activists from Butare

The students from the Protestant University of Butare, which is in partnership with CPN, were represented by their delegate who spoke about peace in a regional context, as necessary for security, development and freedom. The benefits are not only for everyone at the present time, but above all for generations to come. They demand peaceful coexistance, because, as Gandhi liked to say, an eye for an eye will make us all blind.

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(Click here for the original version of this article in French)

Question for this article

What has happened this year (2016) for the International Day of Peace?

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Speech by youth from CPN clubs

The CPN youth speech criticized how young people are being manipulated and used by invisible players to destroy their own lives and society; instead, young people should be involved in the country’s development projects. They congratulated CPN for its training which makes them a vector of peace for development and rehabilitation of the country.

Speech for peace in English by a CPN youth.

A young CPN member read his speech in English. Beginning with decrying what happened in Kinshasa during the month of peace, he commented that while we commemorate the international day of peace, there are those in the refugee camps who suffer in all kinds of weather conditions after being forced to abandon their houses and their fields.

What we are living in the North Kivu province is far from “peace” because every second there are violations of human rights, murder, massacre, murder, kidnapping etc. Whole communities are being killed. We are told they are in conflict, although for decades they lived harmoniously together. Peaceful cohabitation between ethnic communities would not be a problem, were it not for invisible hands that work in the shadows to destroy peace.

Presentation of the book “1000 Youth Peace expressions of CPN”

The celebration of International Peace Day was also an opportunity for CPN to present the book “1000 Youth Peace expressions” which conveys the youth’s expressions of peace through drawings, essays, poems and music.

Africa, FREE FLOW OF INFORMATION

UN: Ban welcomes announcement of talks between Government of Colombia and National Liberation Army

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An article from the UN News Centre

Welcoming the announcement that formal negotiations between the Government of Colombia and the National Liberation Army (ELN) will begin later this month, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today [October 12] expressed hope that the two sides will reach a sustainable peace agreement as soon as possible.

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    Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon speaks during the signing ceremony of the peace agreement between the Government of Colombia and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia – People’s Army (FARC-EP), in Cartagena. UN Photo/Rick Bajornas

“The Secretary-General welcomes the announcement that the Government of Colombia and the National Liberation Army (ELN) will begin formal negotiations […], following more than two years of exploratory conversations,” Mr. Ban’s spokesperson said in a statement.

“This is a source of encouragement to the Colombian people and all those involved in supporting a peaceful and comprehensive end to conflict,” the statement added.

“The Secretary-General hopes the Government and the ELN will work with determination to reach a sustainable peace agreement as soon as possible,” the statement said.

The announcement of the talks to begin on 27 October, in Quito, Ecuador, comes after Colombian voters last week narrowly rejected the historic peace agreement signed by the Government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia-People’s Army (FARC-EP), the largest rebel group in the South American country.

Despite the outcome of the referendum, Mr. Ban has encouraged the Government and FARC-EP to stay the course for peace with a view to end Colombia’s 50-year conflict.

(Click here for a Spanish version of this article

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FREE FLOW OF INFORMATION, Latin America

The Nobel Peace Prize for 2016: Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos

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Press release by the Nobel Prize

The Norwegian Nobel Committee has decided to award the Nobel Peace Prize for 2016 to Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos for his resolute efforts to bring the country’s more than 50-year-long civil war to an end, a war that has cost the lives of at least 220 000 Colombians and displaced close to six million people. The award should also be seen as a tribute to the Colombian people who, despite great hardships and abuses, have not given up hope of a just peace, and to all the parties who have contributed to the peace process. This tribute is paid, not least, to the representatives of the countless victims of the civil war.

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President Santos initiated the negotiations that culminated in the peace accord between the Colombian government and the FARC guerrillas, and he has consistently sought to move the peace process forward. Well knowing that the accord was controversial, he was instrumental in ensuring that Colombian voters were able to voice their opinion concerning the peace accord in a referendum. The outcome of the vote was not what President Santos wanted: a narrow majority of the over 13 million Colombians who cast their ballots said no to the accord. This result has created great uncertainty as to the future of Colombia. There is a real danger that the peace process will come to a halt and that civil war will flare up again. This makes it even more important that the parties, headed by President Santos and FARC guerrilla leader Rodrigo Londoño, continue to respect the ceasefire.

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What is happening in Colombia, Is peace possible?

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The fact that a majority of the voters said no to the peace accord does not necessarily mean that the peace process is dead. The referendum was not a vote for or against peace. What the “No” side rejected was not the desire for peace, but a specific peace agreement. The Norwegian Nobel Committee emphasizes the importance of the fact that President Santos is now inviting all parties to participate in a broad-based national dialogue aimed at advancing the peace process. Even those who opposed the peace accord have welcomed such a dialogue. The Nobel Committee hopes that all parties will take their share of responsibility and participate constructively in the upcoming peace talks.

Striking a balance between the need for national reconciliation and ensuring justice for the victims will be a particularly difficult challenge. There are no simple answers to how this should be accomplished. An important feature of the Colombian peace process so far has been the participation of representatives of civil war victims. Witnessing the courage and will of the victims’ representatives to testify about atrocities, and to confront the perpetrators from every side of the conflict, has made a profound impression.

By awarding this year’s Peace Prize to President Juan Manuel Santos, the Norwegian Nobel Committee wishes to encourage all those who are striving to achieve peace, reconciliation and justice in Colombia. The president himself has made it clear that he will continue to work for peace right up until his very last day in office. The Committee hopes that the Peace Prize will give him strength to succeed in this demanding task. Furthermore, it is the Committee’s hope that in the years to come the Colombian people will reap the fruits of the ongoing peace and reconciliation process. Only then will the country be able to address effectively major challenges such as poverty, social injustice and drug-related crime.

The civil war in Colombia is one of the longest civil wars in modern times and the sole remaining armed conflict in the Americas. It is the Norwegian Nobel Committee’s firm belief that President Santos, despite the “No” majority vote in the referendum, has brought the bloody conflict significantly closer to a peaceful solution, and that much of the groundwork has been laid for both the verifiable disarmament of the FARC guerrillas and a historic process of national fraternity and reconciliation. His endeavors to promote peace thus fulfil the criteria and spirit of Alfred Nobel’s will.

FREE FLOW OF INFORMATION, Latin America

Chandigarh, India: 11th Global Youth Peace Fest

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An article from the Tribune of India

The 11th Global Youth Peace Fest (GYPF)-2016 concluded at the Chandigarh Institute of Hotel Management here today with the delegates making a fervent plea for global peace and harmony in the spirit of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”, the whole world is one family, which they displayed over the week by embracing each other.

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Delegates from Pakistan in a jubilant mood during the valedictory function of the 11th Global Youth Peace Festival in Chandigarh on Sunday. Tribune Photo: S Chandan
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The collective aspiration for peace and harmony took the form of a resolution that called for establishing peace in every corner of the globe.

On the concluding day of the event, organised by Yuvsatta, an NGO, the high-octane aspiration for peace and harmony was evident as countries cheered the delegates from across the globe, forgetting regional tensions and lack of harmony. “As we met and embraced each other over the past week, we connected to the aspiration of the world as one family in the hearts and minds of every participant,” the final GYPF resolution passed by them read.

What was striking in today’s event was the rapport that the young people built over the week which translated into a standing ovation for every country as they walked up to the stage to get their mementos and certificates. The Pakistani delegation waving the Indian Flag was a touching sight in stark contrast to the tension that has been experienced across the border between the two countries.

The delegates also called upon the governments and international bodies to support youth programmes and projects and involve them in the decision-making process.“We all agree that there is an urgent need for exploring meaningful participation of young people in establishing a culture of peace by actively pursuing the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and connecting to the universal yearning for peace,” they said, adding that the GYPF had shown the way to building a global culture of voluntarism and service.

The delegates presented action plans on what they would be doing back home in areas of women empowerment, sustainability, global citizenship and promoting youth leadership in SAARC countries with the learning of the GYPF fresh in their minds. The young people decided that they would remain in touch with each other and report the progress in achieving the goals in the next GYPF.

Earlier in the day, a “Wildlife Conservation Walk” was organised with all delegates assembling at Sukhna Lake carrying the message of “live and let live”.

A felicitation ceremony for all delegates from 33 countries was organised in which they were honoured with a canvas depicting a sketch of Mahatma Gandhi by Shammi Malik, state retail sales manager of Indian Oil Company Limited, Rani Sharma, chairperson, Sidharth Vashisht Charitable Trust, American Gandhi Bernie Meyer, Principal of the Chandigarh Institute of Hotel Management TK Razdan and Dr Markandey Rai, Adviser, UN Habitat.

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FREE FLOW OF INFORMATION, South Asia

First Meeting for Violence Prevention in Uruapan. Mexico

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An article from Agenia Quadratin (translated by CPNN)

The Municipal Government through the Ministry of Municipal Public Security and the Social Prevention of Violence and Crime, invited all social, educational, cultural, business and private sectors to the First Meeting for Violence Prevention held on Monday October 3 at the premises of the Casa del Niño.

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According to a press release, the event took place from nine o’clock in the morning, in the framework of the commemoration of the “International Day of Non-Violence” in the auditorium “Father Ochoa” of this institution. Also, the mayor, Victor Manuel Gonzalez Manriquez, has underlined the importance of creating social participation forums for involvement with the government for decision-making on public safety.

For his part, the representative for Municipal Public Security, Juan Martin Vega Villalobos, gave details of the activities held during this day, including a lecture entitled “Antidote Against Violence”, by Gerardo Herrera Perez, lawyer from Michoacan and a doctoral candidate in public policy, currently coordinator of research, dissemination and training of the ECHR in Michoacan and member of the Conapred.

Finally, the director of the section on Social Prevention of Violence and Crime, Manuel Escobedo Navarrete, said that the conference was to discuss enactment of a law for a culture of peace and prevention of violence and crime in Michoacan.

Escobedo Navarrete said two main axes are established: Culture of Peace, as a mechanism for human development through dialogue, tolerance and respect; and preventing violence as a vaccine against crime. He said they have worked for several months on this project with a multidisciplinary team to conduct workshops with issues of child violence, addiction prevention, violence, violent crime, new masculinities and neighborhood mediation.

(Click here for a Spanish version of this article

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FREE FLOW OF INFORMATION, Latin America

Asia-Pacific Youth Dialogue sparks ‘young energy’

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An article from China.org

Twenty-three years after Samuel Huntington’s popular book “The Clash of Civilizations” was published and aroused calls for dialogue between different civilizations, it is still as relevant as ever in the current era of regional confrontations and inter-religious mistrust. In this context, and through an initiative with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and the Chinese Ministry of Education, the first Asia-Pacific Youth Dialogue opened on Sept. 21, the International Day of Peace, in the southwestern city of Chengdu, Sichuan Province.

Dialogue

Around 200 young delegates from 46 countries of the Asia-Pacific region gathered to discuss how to build a nexus between Asia Pacific civilizations, cultures, social cohesion, respect for diversity and peace building, as well as engaging with the youth as agents of change and custodians of the future regionally and internationally.

The initiative coincides with the call of the country’s policymakers to boost regional cooperation and development as President Xi Jinping proposed in a speech last year at the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA). This, he said, could act as a platform to enhance interactions among young people, local communities and the media and to form a network of cooperation.

Dr. Marielza Oliveira, director and UNESCO representative to the People’s Republic of China, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Japan, Mongolia and the Republic of Korea, said at the opening ceremony, “The youth delegates here are chosen from thousands of applicants and represent the best, the brightest and the most committed who come together to discuss what needs to be done to defend the dignity of all human beings.”

She called for young people to act on the domestic and international problems they face, citing the fact that British youth might be the hardest hit by the Brexit scenario due to their inaction before and during the referendum.

Robert H. Xiao, CEO of Perfect World Co., Ltd., China’s online gaming giant and sponsor of the event, highlighted three keywords, i.e. communication, hope and responsibility, as his expectations for the young people.

“Communication is the foundation on which Asian young people can build mutual understanding, find mutual benefits and grow together,” said Xiao. “Communication among Asian countries and among young people in particular, is an important source of confidence and recognition of Asian civilization.”

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Question for this article

What has happened this year (2016) for the International Day of Peace?

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“It is also the basis for Asian people to build mutual understanding and benefits, and achieve joint development.”

When asked about his expectation for the event, Andrew Lesa, a youth delegate and also a diplomat from New Zealand told China.org.cn he wanted to see actions in earnest following the event.

“At a lot of meetings, all we do is talk.” He hoped that after the meeting and when everyone had returned home, there could be tangible projects and activities staged in their respective countries on the important agenda items of the event so as to “make a difference on the ground.”

Hoe Wee Kiat, a youth delegate from Singapore, told China.org.cn the event could enable them to learn about each other’s culture and civilization. “Youth can be agents of change, and they should be more proactive and take the initiative in making a positive difference.”

The three-day event is envisioned as a dynamic and participatory event utilizing a combination of plenary lectures and workshops organized both thematically and sub-regionally, and fun activities to provide learning and networking opportunities for the youth.

According to the organizer, the initiative is a follow-up to discussions on Young Global Citizens for a Sustainable Planet in 2015 and leads up to the 2017 Asian Civilization Dialogue Forum in China.





East Asia, FREE FLOW OF INFORMATION

Celebration of the International Day of Peace around the world

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A survey by CPNN

We found 182 events in 85 counties for the International Day of Peace listed in “Google News” during the week of September 17-24 under the key words for the International Day of Peace in English, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, Ukrainian and Arabic. We may assume that that there were articles in other national languages that are not listed here. For details, click on one of the following seven regions listed after the map.

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For details of the map, click here and then enlarge by repeatedly clicking on the “+” sign of the map enlargements.

As you can see from the preceding map, the events were rather evenly spread around the world. For maps by region and details about events, see the following.

From Canada and the United States there were articles about 38 events in 6 Canadian provinces and 30 US states in addition to over 600 actions organized by the Campaign Nonviolence.

From Africa there were articles about 16 events in 15 countries.

From the Arab states there were articles about 14 events in 11 countries.

From Asia there were articles about 22 events in 11 countries.

From Western Europe there were articles about 29 events in 8 countries.

From Russia and the Ukraine there were articles about 24 events.

From Latin America and the Caribbean there were articles about 39 events in 14 countries.

An analysis of the data is provided in this month’s CPNN bulletin.

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Question for this article

What has happened this year (2016) for the International Day of Peace?

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In addition to local and national events, there were major international mobilizations for the International Day of Peace.:

At the United Nations , the Secretary-General celebrated the Day in the Peace Garden at United Nations Headquarters by ringing the Peace Bell and observing a minute of silence. Women Nobel Peace Prize laureates and the United Nations Messengers of Peace were invited to participate in the ceremony. And the United Nations Education Outreach Section hold a global student videoconference.

The African Union represented all of its countries in its campaign for “silencing of the guns” by 2020, while CEDEAO called for the women of West Africa to establish a durable peace in that region.

Choirs with a million singers around the world were said to have taken part in One Day One Choir to send a message of peace and unity on International Day of Peace.

Mayors and activists from around the world took part in an International Forum of ‘Mayors for Peace.‘

FREE FLOW OF INFORMATION, global

Canada and the United States: The International Day of Peace

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A survey by CPNN

As reported previously in CPNN, Campaign Nonviolence planned more than 600 actions, events, marches and demonstrations in a diverse array of cities and towns in each of the 50 states. As of September 29, links to 65 reports of these actions in the USA were listed on their website. Following up their mobilization as well as a national conference for a World Beyond War, activists engaged in civil disobedience at the Pentagon.

In order to obtain a general survey of events in the USA and Canada, we searched “Google News” for the week of 17-24 September by using the key phrases “International Day of Peace” or “Journée internationale de la paix.” For events elsewhere in the world click here.

map of USA and Canada
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As seen on the map above, there were articles about events in 6 provinces of Canada and 30 states of the United States.

Here are excerpts from the articles.

Granby, Quebec Canada Peace marched with many faces when over a hundred Granby residents celebrated the International Day of Peace. “Granby is a host city for many immigrants from everywhere. We learn to live together with our differences. We have not all the same color or the same language, but the bottom line is that we learn to know ourselves, to live in peace and love, “said one of the organizers of the march, Brigitte de Souza.

Halifax, Nova Scotia Organizers behind a daylong peace festival held in Halifax on Saturday say the recent gun violence in the city highlights the need for more people to find peace within themselves. Peace Halifax was a free event that featured guest speakers, yoga, art and meditation. The festivities focused on creating inner peace to try and make the world more peaceful.

Edmonton, Alberta At a celebration to mark the International Day of Peace on Wednesday, Nina Delling, president of the Edmonton branch of the United Nations Association in Canada, asked “What are you willing to do for peace?” Following on examples of racist incidents in Edmonton, Taz Bouchier, a First Nations community elder, said. “To us, as indigenous people, it’s not news that people in the streets will call you names, that people will put you down for your skin colour or for your race of for your culture,” Bouchier said. “We pray for them.”

Niagara Falls, Ontario While the musical collective known as The Perpetual Peace Project is well known in the city, the Niagara Falls Public Library has started its own take. Organized by community development and program librarian Carrie Bosco in time for The International Day of Peace on Sept. 21, the Peace Project encourages visitors at all four branches — Victoria Avenue, Chippawa, Stamford and the MacBain Centre — to create origami peace doves.

Regina, Saskatchewan People walking by Regina City Hall will notice a new, but recognizable symbol flying out front today. On Tuesday, the city raised a peace flag to mark United Nations International Day of Peace, also known as World Peace Day. PeaceQuest Regina — which was formed in Kingston, Ont. — made the request to fly the flag in front of city hall. It will stay there until Sept. 22.

Nanaimo, British Columbia In the photo, Diane Bestwick, a member of Unity Church, carries the peace flag during a march along the Harbourfront Walkway at Maffeo Sutton Park as part of the Peace Party on Sunday. There was a multi-faith service, a peace march and ceremonies and entertainment to mark the International Day of Peace.

Austin, Texas Students at Montessori schools in Austin and across the world are going to sing a song to honor the peaceful day. It is called “Light a Candle for Peace.” Mayor Steve Adler, Police Chief Art Acevedo, musician Jackie Venson, and local teen poet Sabeen Noorani will celebrate Peace Day at a conference that will start at 10 a.m. in front of Austin City Hall.

Memphis, Tennessee Students at Cordova Elementary celebrated Wednesday’s International Day of Peace in a fun way. Kids in pre-k through 5th grade wore traditional clothes from other cultures and participated in a multi-cultural fair. Teachers say it’s important for students to be respectful of other cultures. “It’s not too early for them to learn about peace and conflict resolution and to respect others,” says pre-k teacher Chandra Madden. “Even if we’re different, we’re a lot alike.”

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Lisa Parker, of Strafford, started Peace Day Philly in 2010, and it’s grown every year since, becoming a nonprofit in 2013. In the last two years more than 3,500 people took part in PDP. Peace Day Philly events are planned from Sept. 18 to 24, including yoga, meditation, an international-themed festival, an interfaith dialogue, photos by Syrian refuge youth, a film, a concert and the Annual Sing Along for Peace. Peace Day Philly collaborates with some 30 organizations, with some separate events promoted under the Peace Day Philly umbrella, she said.

St Louis, Missouri Students at St. Louis Job Corps Center partnered with students at Harris-Stowe State University to organize a peace walk through the city in celebration of the International Day of Peace. The walk ended in Forest Park where a rally was held. Many residents who participated say they are concerned about the violence around the world and right here in St. Louis. So far, the City of St. Louis police department has investigated 145 murders this year alone. Participates shared their personal stories, dedicated to preventing and reducing violence from Afghanistan to the United States.

Dayton, Ohio Students from the Dayton Job Corps Center hosted a peace walk this morning to celebrate International Day of Peace. The walk was part of the national Job Corps student-led anti-violence initiative Youth 2 Youth: Partners 4 Peace The walk coincided with the Y2Y mission to promote anti-violence initiatives both on- and off-center. Students started Youth 2 Youth, or Y2Y, with three basic aims: to talk about violence and aggression in their communities, to empower one another to prevent violence and aggression, and to share their stories and talk about solutions, according to a release. Founded in the spring of 2015, Y2Y is a violence-prevention initiative created by and led by Job Corps students nationwide.

Richmond, Virgina As a part of the school’s 50th anniversary celebrations, Richmond Montessori School students participated in the International Day of Peace Sept. 21. Students gathered in the morning and joined 125,000 students in 65 countries to sing “Light a Candle for Peace.” (Watch their performance at https://youtu.be/j8hxHgZcoos.) “Our students dream about changing the world,” says Grainne Murray, Richmond Montessoris’ head of school. “Like Maria Montessori, we believe in a universal bond of sharing that connects all humanity, and we must fulfill her her dream by preparing students to live and work in an integrated world and to contribute to improving society.”

South Berwick, Maine The wind cooperated and animated the 390 pinwheels set out in front of Central School Wednesday afternoon. It was the school’s way of celebrating International Day of Peace. “Pinwheels for Peace” was organized by art teacher Brenda Stewart and librarian Michelle Jones. After brainstorming, students wrote a message of peace on one side of a piece of paper and created an art piece on the other side. Their creations were then folded into pinwheels and mounted on sticks. As you plant them, think of peace,” teacher Barbara Childress told her students.

Samoa, California On Wednesday, the Redwood Coast Montessori School held a day of celebration in honor of the United Nations International Day of Peace. It was a day to educate students on the importance of world peace. There was a multitude of events held starting with a parade. Students sang songs about peace, as they walked around the school track. They were holding a large paper dove, which was a representation of peace. Veterans and representatives from the Humboldt Chapter of the Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom came to join in on the fun.

Cedar Rapids, Iowa Children in Cedar Rapids joined kids from across the world to celebrate International Day of Peace. Cedar Valley Montessori School participated in the event called “Sing for Peace.” Children aged three to six years old sang a song titled, “Light A Candle For Peace.” Stacy Cataldo, who is the head of the school, said the event allowed the kids to learn about the meaning of peace. “Genuine connection is the basis of every peaceful relationship,” she said. “So we are trying to connect the children not just with one another, but with children all over the world.”

Tulsa, Oklahoma The students and staff of Tulsa Community College are rallying around the word “peace.” TCC hosted its annual International Day of Peace, but for the TCC community the day couldn’t have come at a better time. “To know that was a classmate amongst us was devastating,” student Nicole Lueker said. Terence Crutcher, 40, was a student at TCC. He told staff he was dedicated to completing his degree and becoming more successful. His dream was cut short five days ago when Crutcher was shot and killed by Tulsa Police Officer Betty Shelby. The circumstances are still under investigation. “It is very emotional because someone had to lose their life over that,” said Brittany Nunley, a member of the African American Student Association.

Washington, D.C. In honor of the United Nations’ International Day of Peace, AU alumni Amanda Brenner and Amanda Molina will host a 24 hour nonviolence kickoff event on campus to benefit D.C. middle and high school students on Sept. 21. The event is targeted at empowering and educating youth from other D.C. wards with lower economic incomes that are racially segregated. Over 400 middle and high school students from the D.C. Public School system are expected to be bussed to AU, and others will arrive on their own, according to Brenner. The event will have a schedule of speakers, information booths and food.

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Question for this article

What has happened this year (2016) for the International Day of Peace?

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Denver, Colorado The University of Denver will celebrate International Day of Peace this Wednesday with a variety of events themed around “Many Stories, One DU.” The event is being hosted by the division of Campus Life and Inclusive Excellence. While DU has recognized the International Day of Peace in the past, this is the first year the observance has been aligned with so many events on a larger scale, says University Chaplain Gary Brower, who organized the event. After the shooting at the Pulse Nightclub in Orlando in June and other shootings that took place this past summer, Brower proposed the larger-scale observance as a way to bring awareness and knowledge to the importance of peace.

Fayetteville, Arkansas Panel made up of six speakers launched the UA celebration of the United Nations International Day of Peace. The panel speakers included speakers of a religious background like, a professor of Tibetan Buddhist philosophy, a Rabbi at Temple Shalom and the faculty advisor of the registered student organization Al-Islam. There were also speakers representing different ethnic backgrounds, such as an author and Holocaust survivor, an educator for the Black History Education Program, and the field director for the nonprofit Arkansas United Community Coalition. Panel members first shared their outlook on nonviolence in regards to their personal experiences.

Chicago, Illinois Maddi Jane and Jasmine Babers from the Chicago area were among several “influencers” who UN Assistant Secretary-General Ray Chambers tapped for the job getting the International Day of Peace message out in the Chicago area. The pair launched a Change.org petition for people to pledge 24 hours of non-violence on Wednesday and posted a video encouraging Chicagoans to share images of peace signs they’ve drawn on their hands on social media with the hashtags #HugForPeace, #PeaceDayChallenge and #WagePeace.

Oxford, Mississippi As World Day of Peace was observed around the globe Wednesday (Sept. 21), the University of Mississippi Concert Singers joined their voices as part of a worldwide choral cry for peace that live-streamed on the internet. Led by Don Trott, director of choral activities, the 50-member group participated in a worldwide effort to promote peace through the singing of a South African song titled “Ukuthula,” which translates into “peace.”

Notre Dame, Indiana On Tuesday, several Saint Mary’s students and faculty participated in activities celebrating the International Day of Peace. Campus minister Emily Sipos-Butler said the Day of Peace is a way to commemorate and strengthen acts of peace and nonviolence within the community.

Kealakekua, Hawaii For some students of Konawaena High School, the International Peace Day event Wednesday afternoon was much more than a conceptual celebration. The reason to hold the event was simple enough for Maianna Taylor, who served as one of the MCs and organizers. “What better way to invest your time than in something that celebrates peace?” she asked. “I’m calling it one of the darkest summers we’ve ever had,” she said, as this was a summer of the shooting in Orlando and other violence across the nation.The event included free food, art projects and decorating tiles for the 1001 Cranes mural. The tiles will be added to over the years, Obregon said, until the entire roof and upper walls of the entry hallway are covered.

Gadsden, Alabama “One week, one message, one goal.” As soon as the words left the mouth of Gadsden Job Corps Center Director Juvenel Levros, they were taken up as a cheer from students attending the Youth 2 Youth: Partners 4 Peace rally at the Carver Community Center on Wednesday. More than 250 students marched from the Job Corps center on Valley Street down Tuscaloosa Avenue to the Carver Community Center as part of a violence prevention initiative created and led by Job Corps students nationwide. The march and rally coincided with the International Day of Peace, which was recognized around the world Wednesday.

Hartford, Connecticut For the fourth year in a row, families can do yoga, make art and listen to music in what organizers call a “mini-Woodstock for children.” The International Day of Peace Celebration will be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday in Elizabeth Park, organized by Music Together centers from around the state. “There are very few opportunities, unfortunately, for our children to see the grown-ups in their lives demonstrate acts of peace and togetherness with all of those around them,” co-organizer Catherine Denmead said. “We wanted to provide a way for people to show up and be present with us and really send that resounding wish into the world together.”

Midland, Michigan Creative 360 in Midland will host an International Day of Peace Family Celebration from 1-4 p.m. on Sunday. The program is open to the public and begins with the Jubileaus Hand Bell Ensemble from Trinity Lutheran Church, which will play a number of songs related to peace. A presentation about the myths and realities of life in Palestine will follow. Children and their families will enjoy decorating peace poles, creating beaded peace bracelets, folding origami peace cranes and helping create mosaic garden art for Creative 360’s wellness pathway The day’s activities will be punctuated with the reading of both original and well-known peace poems. Bobbi Lucas will close the event by leading a Planetary Peace Dance.

Columbia, South Carolina The president of the Carolina Peace Resource Center, David Matos, wanted to make sure people gathered to share goodwill for their neighbor. Matos, along with a dozen other people met at the fountain in Five Points, lighting candles and braving the wind and rain to stand for peace. “We are a very much a nation of unrest,” says Stephanie Palmer-Smith. “We need to let our light shine through even though it’s raining and blowing.” “The most important thing for you to do is find the people that want to make a difference and work with them,” says Matos. Matos hopes their presence can encourage others. “Without justice, there’s no peace.”

Northfield, Minnesota Northfield held its 14th annual International Day of Peace Celebration Tuesday at Carleton College’s Great Hall, handing out its first-ever Arts Peace Awards. Organizers Judith Stoutland and Mar Valdecantos recognized the efforts of children who submitted a drawing, poem or photograph for the newly established award to involve more youth input.

Wilmington, North Carolina It’s the International Day of Peace, and one local organization is working to spread the love here in Wilmington. The Grandmothers of Peace organization held a local event today at Hugh MacRae park. More than dozen people joined together for this 10th annual event. Organizer Lynn Heritage says in light of recent violence in our country and across our state, today is even more important. Supporters listened to music, played the tambourine, belly danced and spoke out about peace.

Boonsboro, Maryland During a Sunday feast to mark this week’s International Day of Peace, the way to harmony was examined through various routes, including reaching out to others and meditation. Organizers wanted a meal that included the traditions of India, Iran, Italy and other countries. The entrees included naan, vegetable samosa and Persian rice. The feast was organized by the Interfaith Coalition of Washington County, which promotes an understanding of various world traditions. It is hoped that through that understanding, a deeper sense of peace will arise, said Sandy Boyer, who was among those attended.

Ashland, Oregon The Ashland Culture of Peace Commission held a concert to finish up its ten days of peace activities since Sept. 11. For the last ten days, a vigil has been held in the Ashland Plaza and talks covering different topics have been held in the afternoon. “This really is a time to contemplate how we have evolved from such aggression and such trouble in the world to being more aware and more conscious,” Ashland Culture of Peace Commission executive director David Wick said. “More, ‘How do we come together to find pathways into greater well-being?'” The event included music, speakers and food.

Freeport, New York In honor of International Day of Peace and Non-Violence Day, the Freeport Public School District’s annual Peace Concert and Art Exhibit will be held at the Freeport High School Performing Arts Center. The evening will showcase the outstanding musical and artistic talents of students from each of the eight Freeport public schools.

Milwaukee, Wisconsin The public was invited to a march and rally at Milwaukee City Hall to mark the International Day of Peace. It was sponsored by the International Day of Peace Coalition and supported by the Coaltion for Justice. Slogans were: “No to racism, violence and attacks on immigrants,”; No more aggressive, illegal or unauthorized wars”; and “Move the money from military to needs at home.”

Jonesborough, Tennessee To mark the International Day of Peace, the United Religions Initiative is holding a candle lighting gathering on the steps of the old Washington County Courthouse in downtown Jonesborough at 7 p.m. Representatives from local Jewish, Catholic, Protestant, Buddhist, and Muslim congregations will speak at the event. Prayers for peace from these diverse religions will be featured, along with the singing of songs together, and readings of the UN and Sister Cities proclamations.

Providence, Rhode Island It might not feel like a world at peace. All the more reason, says Ginny Fox, to celebrate the peacemakers among us, and the good things that are happening in Rhode Island and around the world. “There’s so much negativity in our world. This is a positive event,” she said. Fox is executive director of the Peace Flag Project, which is holding its annual Peace Fest RI from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday at Burnside Park in downtown Providence. The Peace Fest will include activities such as making peace flags, pinwheels, and face painting. There will be exhibits from a wide variety of Rhode Island nonprofits.

Kirkland, Washington
In honor of the International Day of Peace Sept. 21, 10 women from communities extending from Anacortes to Renton worked together to make a quilt from patches featuring the word in 17 different languages or symbols. Schwender coordinated being able to display the quilt on the Cow and Coyote statue in downtown Kirkland for a week, ending today, Sept. 16. “Peace is at the heart of all people,” Mary Duffy, another member of the group, said. “Our country is a mix of many cultures. Our diversity had drawn me to participate and share.”

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Russia and Ukraine: International Day of Peace

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A survey by CPNN

The following events were listed in “Google News” during the week of September 17-24 under the titles for the International Day of Peace in Russian (“Международный день мира”) and Ukrainian (“Міжнародний день миру”). For events elsewhere in the world, click here.

map or russia:ukraine
(Click on image to enlarge)

As you can see from the preceding map, there were articles about 24 events in these countries.

Here are excerpts from the articles.

Lutsk, Ukraine Students and teachers of the Lutsk gymnasium №4 celebrated the International Day of Peace with a flashmob, “We are for peace.”

Kovelchany, Ukraine: In Kovelchany city the audience was told that the International Day of Peace was proclaimed by the General Assembly to perpetuate the ideals of peace both in relations within states and among all nations and peoples. At the end of the children released in sky blue and yellow balloons and pigeons with wishes, hopes and expectations that Ukraine will be a peaceful and happy state .

Kalush, Ukraine: “Let there be peace in our native Ukraine!” Under this slogan, youth celebrated the International Day of Peace at the Kalush branch library. Unfortunately, there is ongoing fighting in eastern Ukraine, Not all schools are open. Some are destroyed, in others there is no one to teach.

Poltava, Ukraine: About a hundred students gathered to mark the International Peace Day in Poltava with a flashmob “Dove of Peace”. Among them were students of Lugansk who fled to Poltova during the war.

Kiev, Ukraine: A peace march was attended by representatives of local government and central government authorities, UN representatives, NGOs veterans, participants in anti-terrorist operations and Kiev Youth. The solemn procession was held from Ukraine memorial to soldiers who fell in Afghanistan, the National Museum of History of Ukraine in World War II. People carried banners with the words: “We vote for peace” as well as flowers.

Pokrovsk, Ukraine: In school №2, an exhibition of drawings “World Without War”, symbolized the right of children to live in joy, love, and friendship under a peaceful sky. Children in primary school and high school students took part in the exhibition.

Kremenchuk, Ukraine: By tradition every year on the Day of Peace, Kremenchuk receives a delegation from Indonesia. The delegation was warmly welcomed by representatives of the Kremenchug city authorities. They were taken to the Peace Park, for the ceremony “Dzvony Gong of the World.”

Berdyansk, Ukraine:
Berdyansk took part in the international project for a mural dedicated to the day of peace. The winner was the work of the photographer-designer Darina Polovets “haven of peace”.

Dnipropetrovsk, Ukraine: On the International Day of Peace Dnipropetrovsk held a Regional Roundtable for the “Women for Peace” national platform. Natalia Nacharyan, deputy of Dnipropetrovsk City Council, said, “Women have an inherent nature of diplomacy, and at the same time a strong will. Therefore, today joined forces, we require a national dialogue in order to achieve peace, mutual understanding and social well-being in Ukraine.” The executive director of the Fund” Ukrainian Perspective “Oksana Zhivaga said “Every day we help peaceful people affected by the war – displaced and wounded. This is a real contribution for the peace and unity of our country.”

Sevastopol, Russia/Ukraine: Doves of peace were released In Sevastopol for the International Day of Peace. The head of the Sevastopol Parliament Ekaterina Altabaeva said “This year for our country is special. October marks 75 years since the heroic defense of Sevastopol in the Great Patriotic war. “We must not allow repetition of the terrible tragedies that war brings.”

Brest, Belarus: On the International Day of Peace in Brest, lamps were set adrift on the canal in favor of life without war and violence. Children enjoyed performances of jugglers and magicians. And then the children released white doves into the sky – a symbol of peace.

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Question for this article

What has happened this year (2016) for the International Day of Peace?

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Vladivostok, Russia: On Wednesday, September 21, at the sports waterfront Vladivostok held the action “Let there be peace,” in honor of the International Day of Peace, The action was aimed at attracting the attention of citizens to wish to live, and to recall the heroism of their ancestors.

Stavropol, Russia: In the central square of the Alexander village a children’s program “Peaceful fun”, was dedicated to the International Day of Peace. The event was opened by a small group of the choir of the Stavropol Territory.

Kurgan, Russia: The celebration took place in three stages. At first the townspeople gathered pre-formed doves of peace, second they created their own, third – the participants drew “Dove of Peace” by Picasso. All crafts could be taken home or given to someone. Later hand in hand, participants created a large circle as a symbol of friendship and cooperation among peoples.

Volgograd, Russia: Thousands of bells rang out at Mamayev Kurgan in Volgograd as students and delegates from 60 regions of Russia, near-abroad countries and the Baltic states voted for peace.

Serov, Russia: International Day of Peace was celebrated in Serov by students of schools of the city at the square in front of leisure center “Rodina”. They carried yellow balloons and hand-written posters such as “No to war!”, “Happy World! Peace one day”, “Let there be happiness on the planet.”

Moscow, Russia: Every year, the school “Promo-M” celebrates the International Day of Peace. This year the them was the “sustainable development goals” of the United Nations. After singing John Lennon’s song «Imagine» each student hit the Peace Bell to commemorate the victims of war and fighting.

Astrakhan, Russia: The social and health center “Zdravushka” showed a film about Peace Day, following which pensioners left messages on the “Tree of Good” in the form of paper doves symbolizing harmony, world peace and friendship. The Narimanov integrated center organized an event “Let there be peace,” for parents and children involved in the social services.

Kazan, Russia: On the International Day of Peace, the Kazan Federal University held a celebration dedicated to the international round table “Prevention of terrorist and extremist behavior of young people in the Internet space: traditional and innovative forms.” The organizer of this event was the Department of Conflictology of the Institute of Social and Philosophical Sciences and Mass Communications.

Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug, Russia:
For the 8th time, the Yamal-Nenets Autonomous District government organized the “Peace in the world” youth festival. This time it was held in August in the Town of Kiten, Republic of Bulgaria. About 170 people between the ages of 18 and 30 from 22 Russian Federation constituencies and countries of the near and far abroad took part in the event. The “Peace Formula” creation was the main focus of the event. The “Formula” will consists of initiatives presented by constituencies or countries and aimed towards achieving Global Peace. All the ideas were refined into a final decision to culminate in a flashmob, event, or contest conducted on September 21, the International Day of Peace.

Biysk, Russia: For the International Day of Peace, students from the Bijskogo State College took part in a flashmob action “dove of peace” releasing white paper doves, tied to balloons, filled with helium.

Magnitogorsk, Russia: The schoolchildren of Chelyabinsk region launched into the sky thousands of white paper doves to celebrate the International Day of Peace.

Murmansk, Russia: Sponsored by the public organization “Murmansk Association of youth” and municipal autonomous institution “House of youth”, citizens of Murmansk will take part in the campaign “Dove of Peace” in the city center on Leningrad Street.

Nekrasovka, Russia: The International Day of Peace was celebrated with a festive program called “Peace and Harmony” including a concert organized by residents of the district. The newspaper “Voice of Nekrasovka” published a photo report from the scene.

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