What Does International Day of Peace Mean Anyway?
Every year the UN observes International Day of Peace on September 21st as part of their initiative to spread peace and awareness of the inequalities that still exist across the globe. All of this is done to help foster a happier, healthier, and more hospitable world for everyone.
So, when did International Day of Peace begin?
According to the United Nations (UN) marked the first ever International Day of Peace on the 21st of September 1982. In 2001, the General Assembly voted in favour of dedicating this day as a period of non-violence and cease-fire. These values and principles remain as important as ever in 2022 and we join the international community in celebrating and acknowledging the importance of promoting peace.
Every year, the UN hosts and sponsors a variety of events at their Headquarters in New York. In particular, the traditional Peace Bell Ceremony which takes place in the Peace Garden. The United Nations Association of Japan donated the iconic Peace Bell to the office in 1954. Cast from coins and medals donated by representatives of Member States, the Pope, and people from over 60 different nations, the bell is meant to symbolise hope and peace. The bell which takes has a distinctive Japanese style, is sounded twice a year, once on the first day of Spring and again on World Day of Peace.
How Can We Get Involved?
Observe a Moment of Peace
Join the international community across the globe by taking part in a Minute of Silence at 12pm in your local time zone.
Gather with friends and food in the spirit of peace
Celebrate the sentiment by coming together with friends and family and share a meal in the spirit of International Day of Peace. Global Feast for Peace encourage participants to be open to including interfaith or intercultural dialogue during the celebration.
Join the community online
If yoga or meditation is something you enjoy practicing, don’t miss out on the chance to connect with others across the world by signing up for the Global Mala (Yoga) Project or Be The Peace festivities honouring World Day of Peace.
Advocate for peace
Staying informed of current events around the world and outside of our own social bubbles is always an important part of perpetuating peace and equality. Read up on the happenings of the world and make your voice heard whenever you encounter inequality or mistreatment. Together we are stronger.
There are many ways we can express our appreciation and dedication to a peaceful world, whether within our communities or individually by spreading peace in our everyday life. As lovers of travel and the exploration of different cultures and communities, this day is a great reminder of the fantastic, diverse world we live in. However you choose to mark this occasion, share the message!
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