International Day of Peace Celebrated
The International Day of Peace was established by unanimous vote at the United Nations in 1981 as a day to “commemorate and strengthen the ideals of peace both within and among all nations and peoples,” and is celebrated every year on September 21. In 2016, several Unificationist communities observed the holiday. Reports of their efforts and observances follow.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Contributed by Jinil Fleischman
Wednesday, September 21, was the International Day of Peace, a holiday originally designated by the United Nations. To commemorate the day, the Collegiate Association for the Research of Principles (CARP) Las Vegas chapter collaborated with several University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) clubs representing different religions to promote peace and interfaith harmony. The Muslim Student Association and Oasis, a Christian Methodist club, also participated.
We set up a booth with all three groups, and had various activities to promote peace. There was a station to paint peace rocks, as well as a peace-building activity that involved having two strangers experience what it takes to open their heart to each other. It was an experiential way to demonstrate the need for each of us to lower our own barriers that we put up before others if we want to bring peace. We were joined in our activities by several members of the Las Vegas Family Church congregation. Everyone who was involved had a great time working together for the sake of peace.
Santa Rosa, Puerto Rico
On September 21, 2016 Universal Peace Federation (UPF) held an Element of Peace seminar in the Yoga International Teacher Association (YITA) School in Santa Rosa, Puerto Rico to commemorate the International Day of Peace. Fifteen people from the school attended the program, through which they gained some valuable insights about the concept of peace.
Concepcion Garcia gave the welcoming remarks and a small introduction about UPF. After a prayer by Pedro Morales, Mrs. Garcia welcomed four main speakers for the program. Reporters included Yoga School Directors, Rev. Angel Rivera and Isabel Rodriguez, Pastor Antonio Grillo Torres, and Mabel Lassale, director of non-governmental organizations. Each of them gave an eight-minute talk about how peace can be achieved in their society. Toward the end of the program, the four were inspired after being appointed and receiving certificates as Ambassadors of Peace.
Seattle, Washington
Originally published by Universal Peace Federation (UPF) USA
Many gathered together on Thursday, September 22, 2016, at the Windermere Mansion to celebrate the 34th UN International Day of Peace. During the dinner, described as a sharing of “food for peace”, attendees introduced themselves, creating closer bonds of heart among them. It is noteworthy to mention that attendees came from four nations on two continents plus one island nation and also represented a diversity of races. It was a meeting representing the greater family of mankind.
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