What is the International Day of Peace?
The International Day of Peace, observed annually on September 21, is a day dedicated to promoting peace among nations and people worldwide. Established by the United Nations in 1981, it originally focused on commemorating and strengthening the ideals of peace both within and among nations and peoples. In 2001, the UN General Assembly designated the day as a period of non-violence and cease-fire.
The day serves as a reminder of the importance of working towards a world free of conflict, encouraging individuals, organizations, and governments to engage in activities that promote peace. Events often include peace education, cultural performances, discussions, and activities to raise awareness about issues like war, violence, and human rights.
Each year, the UN assigns a theme to focus on different aspects of global peace. Past themes have included promoting human rights, addressing climate change, and fostering inclusivity to create more peaceful societies
What is the 2024 theme for International Day of Peace and what does it mean?
The theme for the International Day of Peace 2024 is “Cultivating a Culture of Peace.” This year marks the 25th anniversary of the United Nations Declaration and Programme of Action on a Culture of Peace. This theme emphasizes that peace is more than just the absence of conflict; it requires active participation, mutual understanding, and cooperation.
The focus is on values like respect for life, human rights, and fundamental freedoms. It encourages the peaceful resolution of conflicts and promotes dialogue and cooperation at all levels of society. The aim is to foster a world where peace is maintained through justice, democracy, tolerance, and solidarity, especially amidst the global crises and conflicts we face today.
This theme is a call to action, urging individuals and nations to prioritize peace through education, dialogue, and collective efforts to build a just and sustainable future.
Did you know Dale Berkebile is leading a community painting event called Painting For Peace on International Day of Peace?
Every year over the last few years I try to offer something to allow people to participate or join the movement to work towards peace both internal for them and as a way to participate in being a part of the bigger movement.
I will share some of the things I have done in the past and a little about what I am doing this year (2024).
This year I am trying to build community and help others join me for a good cause to be more peaceful in our lives and the world. This year I am partnering with St Matthew’s Lutheran Church of Fort Worth to create a space to celebrate peace and love and community.
So I created a few videos for this Paint For Peace event. Here is a quick overview and a sample of me painting one of my recent paintings for peace. This is going to be a fun event and I love the idea of celebrating world peace day with others and doing something fun like painting.
I should also mention beyond the community building and awesome connections we will be making we are also donating 25% of the proceeds to The Fellowship of Reconciliation. This is another way we are able to support global peace and feel like we are actually giving back.
World Peace Day Meditations
The last two years I did videos offering public meditations online to help build awareness and also allow people to explore ways to celebrate International Day of Peace.
In 2022 I did a video to ask people to take a moment of silence at 12:00 (noon) to create a positive energy around the world. This one also included a silent meditation.
In 2023 I did a more indepth overview of World Peace Day, I offer a mini-dharma discussion after a more formal guided meditation focused on community and peace building. I hope you enjoy.
What can you do to celebrate International Day of Peace?
Celebrating the International Day of Peace, observed annually on September 21st, can be a meaningful and impactful experience. Here are some ways you can participate:
Of course if you are local to Fort Worth, I’d love you to join me at the Painting for Peace event. But for those of you not local to Fort Worth you can use the above videos or explore some of these ideas…
1. Host or Attend a Peace Ceremony
- Join a peace vigil or a moment of silence. Many communities hold events that include symbolic gestures like lighting candles, releasing doves, or ringing bells to signify peace.
- Create your own small ceremony with friends or family.
2. Engage in Dialogue and Education
- Host discussions or debates on topics related to peace, conflict resolution, and justice.
- Organize a book or movie club with films and literature focusing on peace, non-violence, and social justice. For example, films like Gandhi, Invictus, or books like A Long Walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela.
- Invite guest speakers such as peace activists, human rights advocates, or those working in conflict areas to share their experiences and insights.
3. Community Service and Volunteer Work
- Volunteer for organizations that promote peace, human rights, or social justice.
- Organize or participate in community cleanups or service projects that bring people together for a common cause, promoting unity and solidarity.
4. Create Art for Peace
- Create or participate in art projects, such as painting peace murals, creating sculptures, or organizing peace-themed exhibitions.
- Write poetry, songs, or other literary works that express ideas of peace and harmony.
- Share peace-related artwork on social media to inspire others.
5. Promote Peace Online
- Use social media to share messages of peace, non-violence, and unity. Engage with global campaigns like #PeaceDay.
- Share stories of peacemakers and positive initiatives happening around the world to inspire hope and action.
6. Participate in Meditations or Prayers for Peace
- Join a global peace meditation or prayer event, often held on this day. This can be done in person or virtually.
- If you practice meditation or mindfulness, dedicate your practice to peace and compassion on this day.
7. Support Peace Initiatives
- Donate to organizations working on peacebuilding, human rights advocacy, refugee support, or anti-violence programs.
- Raise awareness about global conflicts and humanitarian crises by sharing information and encouraging others to take action.
8. Teach Children About Peace
- Engage children in peace activities such as storytelling, crafts, and role-playing exercises that emphasize empathy, kindness, and conflict resolution.
- Organize a peace-themed day at school or in your community, encouraging children to learn about global cultures, promote tolerance, and practice peaceful behavior.
9. Plant a Tree for Peace
- Organize a tree-planting ceremony to symbolize peace and growth in your community. This can be a powerful, lasting symbol of your commitment to creating a more peaceful world.
10. Advocate for Policy Change
- Write letters or emails to your government representatives advocating for peace-building policies, conflict resolution, and the protection of human rights.
- Organize petitions or campaigns that focus on disarmament, social justice, or anti-war initiatives.
Each of these actions can help foster a spirit of peace within your local community while contributing to global efforts for a more harmonious world.
You may recall the old saying… Think globally but act locally. There is so much you can do to move us towards peace, but it all starts by you wanting to do something and valuing human life and nonviolence.
Thank you for reading.
Peace, Love, and Respect to you, my friend.
Dale Berkebile, Jr.