International Day of Peace

Article from Issue #49 (September 7, 2022)

International Day of Peace

by National Day Calendar

The International Day of Peace on September 21st urges humanity to set aside its differences and commit to making peace. Also known as Peace Day, the observance is designed to bring the world together.

It is no secret that we are living in turbulent times. Although WWII ended several decades ago, there has been an ongoing threat of war throughout the world. Many countries face armed conflicts daily.

Some of these conflicts include the civil war in Syria, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and Boko Haram in Nigeria.

To achieve peace among all nations, the UN recognizes that first, economic and social goals need to be met. In 2015, the United Nations Member States adopted 17 sustainable development goals. These goals cover issues including poverty, hunger, education, health, gender equality, affordable energy, reduced inequalities, sanitation, and social justice. The UN hopes to achieve each of these goals by the year 2030.

HOW TO OBSERVE #DayofPeace

People throughout the world, from large cities to tiny villages, celebrate International Peace Day. Every year, the world observes a minute of peace and silence at noon in each time zone. The goal of this minute of peace and silence to create a peace wave around the world.

On this day, the UN declares a personal and political ceasefire. Other events include private gatherings, public concerts, interfaith peace ceremonies, candle lighting ceremonies, peace prayers, peace walks, and tree plantings for peace.

If you would like to observe International Peace Day, take part in an activity in your community. You can educate yourself on the sustainable goals adopted by the UN. Do your part to end hunger and poverty in your community. Become a volunteer. Donate to a relief organization. Get involved in a nonprofit organization that seeks to promote social justice. Attend an interfaith event. Pray for peace — light a candle. There are many things you can do to give peace a chance in this conflicted world.

Whatever you do, don’t forget to share #DayofPeace or #PeaceDay on social media.