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Peace One Day / Final Push for 2002
5th August 2002
Re: UN GA Resolution 55/282
Dear Director
You may already know that UN GA Resolution 55/282 was unanimously adopted by
UN member states at the General Assembly in September last year. This
historic resolution formally establishes the UN International Day of Peace
as an annual day of global ceasefire and non-violence, fixed in the calendar
on 21st September. Accordingly, please find below a copy of GA resolution
55/282 and a selection of commitments to marking 21st September this year
from all sectors of society.
In the attached resolution the General Assembly invites (amongst others)
non-governmental organisations to 'commemorate, in an appropriate manner,
the International Day of Peace, including through education and public
awareness, and to cooperate with the United Nations in the establishment of
the global ceasefire'.
Having driven the initiative to establish this Day, Peace One Day's
commitment is to inform the world's people of its existence. Furthermore,
and in accordance with operative paragraphs 1&3 of resolution 55/282, Peace
One Day is collating and publicising actions undertaken by those cited in
the resolution, effectively everyone, through the media of film, radio and
the written word. In doing so Peace One Day will archive actions from the
global community for the benefit of future generations, Volume 1: 2002. The
response is already tremendous and a selection of commitments (please see
below, and on our website www.peaceoneday.org <http://www.peaceoneday.org>).
I invite you also to consider the commitment, no matter how big or small,
that your organisation is able to make for the Day and communicate it to
Peace One Day on info@peaceoneday.org <mailto:info@peaceoneday.org> or by
mail and fax on the details below. We can then place your commitment on our
website to inspire others to become similarly involved. If your
organisation is one of those whose plans are underway, Peace One Day would
welcome the details of such observance. To support you in your work, if you
would like to receive a copy of the latest 8-minute Peace One Day VHS film,
please contact us and we will post one to you.
This letter has been sent to some 4000 non-governmental organisations
worldwide. Similar letters are being sent to the Heads of all UN member
states and respective UN ambassadors, all education ministers, sports
ministers, the Heads of all UN agencies, religious organisations,
educational establishments, global unions, corporations and key individuals
around the globe.
I trust that your organisation recognises the potential of the United
Nations International Day of Peace both as a day of global ceasefire and
non-violence, and as an opportunity for a moment of global unity. I look
forward to hearing from you at your earliest convenience regarding the
above. On behalf of all those who have supported this process - men, women
and particularly young people in whose name we strive, I thank you in
advance for your kind consideration. I remain
Respectfully yours,
In peace
Jeremy Gilley
Founder, Peace One Day
Peace One Day, Block D, The Old Truman Brewery, 91 Brick Lane, London, E1
6QL, United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0) 207 456 9180 Fax: +44 (0) 207 375 2007
UN GA Resolution 55/282
Fifty-fifth session
Agenda item 33
Resolution adopted by the General Assembly
[without reference to a Main Committee (A/55/L.95 and Add.1)]
55/282. International Day of Peace
The General Assembly,
Recalling its resolution 36/67 of 30 November 1981, by which it declared
that
the third Tuesday of September, the opening day of the regular sessions of
the
General Assembly, shall be officially proclaimed and observed as
International Day
of Peace and shall be devoted to commemorating and strengthening the ideals
of
peace both within and among all nations and peoples,
Recalling also its other relevant resolutions, including resolution 55/14 of
3 November 2000,
Reaffirming the contribution that the observance and celebration of the
International Day of Peace makes in strengthening the ideals of peace and
alleviating tensions and causes of conflict,
Considering the unique opportunity it offers for a cessation of violence and
conflict throughout the world, and the related importance of achieving the
broadest
possible awareness and observance of the International Day of Peace among
the
global community,
Desiring to draw attention to the objectives of the International Day of
Peace,
and therefore to fix a date for its observance each year that is separate
from the
opening day of the regular sessions of the General Assembly,
1. Decides that, with effect from the fifty-seventh session of the General
Assembly, the International Day of Peace shall be observed on 21 September
each
year, with this date to be brought to the attention of all people for the
celebration
and observance of peace;
2. Declares that the International Day of Peace shall henceforth be observed
as a day of global ceasefire and non-violence, an invitation to all nations
and people
to honour a cessation of hostilities for the duration of the Day;
3. Invites all member states, organizations of the United Nations system,
regional and non-governmental organizations and individuals to commemorate,
in an appropriate manner, the International Day of Peace, including through
education and public awareness, and to cooperate with the United Nations in
the establishment of the global ceasefire.
111th Plenary meeting
7th September 2001
Source: United Nations Website www.un.org <http://www.un.org>
COMMITMENTS
Below are a selection of commitments to mark the United Nations
International Day of Peace, a day of global ceasefire and non-violence, from
governments, religious, humanitarian and other non-governmental
organisations, and individuals from around the world.
Governmental support is marked with a *.
Inter-Governmental Organisations
League of Arab States <http://www.leagueofarabstates.org/>
Will call for a meeting of the representatives of all member
states (of the League of Arab States) to observe this day and to prepare for
a wide campaign throughout the Arab world in support of such a programme.
The Arab League do recognise the importance of such a programme and intend
to co-operate with it. The Secretary General has already given instructions
to appoint a focal point in the League to be on constant contact with the
programme and to have full co-operation and co-ordination with the UN in
this respect.
Organization of African Unity <http://www.oau-oua.org/>
At the level of the OAU, Member States will endeavour to map
out realistic and practical ways to commemorate the forthcoming UN
International Day of Peace, a day of global ceasefire. The OAU will also
continue to maintain contact with Peace One Day to explore the possibility
of more concrete collaboration on the specific activities of mutual
interests and which are envisaged for this unique day.
United Nations
UN Peacekeeping Missions
Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations:
"I am pleased to inform you that UN Peacekeeping Missions
from around the world are aware of the Resolution and will, to the extent
possible, take steps to help implement it. Local initiatives will be
coordinated with national authorities and other UN agencies, as well as with
non-governmental organizations and concerned individuals, to observe 21
September as a day of non-violence and global ceasefire. Let us hope that
the seeds we are able to sow will bear fruit and encourage increasingly
wider support for International Peace Day in years to come."
International
ASHOKA Innovators for the Public
Social Innovators in all continents are being invited to
create activities for the International Day of Peace. In Mexico, Ashoka
Fellows are joining efforts for this occasion to collaborate in producing a
public celebration in Mexico City that will feature a wide variety of
artistic expressions honouring the Day as well as exhibit and network social
innovations that improve the possibility of Peace and Well Being worldwide.
Be The Cause <http://www.bethecause.org/Default.htm> has
placed a link to Peace One Day on their web site and is considering how best
to mark the UN International Day of Peace, a day of global ceasefire. We'll
keep you informed as to any developments.
Child Rights Information Network (CRIN
<http://www.crin.org/>) (International) is posting information on its news
service CRINMAIL with 1600 subscribers.
Collins Diaries Inclusion of the Day, 2004 edition.
Hague Appeal for Peace <http://www.haguepeace.org/>
(International) is promoting the Day as part of its Global Peace Education
Campaign, leading to further awareness.
Housmans Peace Diary Inclusion of the global ceasefire day,
2002 edition.
Initiatives for International Dialogue
<http://www.iidnet.org/> (International) are linking their advocacies and
plans with the September 21st, the UN International Day of Peace, a day of
global ceasefire.
International Alert <http://www.international-alert.org/>
(International), a leading NGO in the field of conflict prevention, has
committed to focussing their efforts on the day.
International Committee for the Red Cross
<http://www.icrc.org/> (International) will promote awareness, both within
the organization and outside, of 21st September. The Director General will
also propose that the Standing Commission of the International Red Cross and
Red Crescent Movement discusses how the "Day of Peace" can be commemorated.
International Day of Peace Vigil "A growing group of lay
persons and organizations representing a wide variety of religious and
spiritual traditions has committed to the task of working with other
like-minded individuals and groups for an "International Day of Peace Vigil"
with the following objective:
"To encourage the observation of a worldwide, 24-hour vigil
for peace and non violence on the International Day of Peace, 21 September
2002 in every house of worship and place of spiritual practice, by all
religious and spiritually based groups and individuals and by all men, women
and children who seek peace in the world."
This global 24-hour Vigil is meant to demonstrate the power
of prayer and other spiritual observations in promoting peace, non violence
and the establishment of a global ceasefire. Individuals and groups are
invited to support this World-Wide initiative by committing to hold a
24-hour vigil on 21 September 2002 on www.idpvigil.com
<http://www.idpvigil.com>."
Peace Army (International) is contacting all its
storytellers, drawing their attention to the UN International Day of Peace,
a day of global ceasefire.
World Goodwill, (NGO) an international movement helping to
mobilize the energy of goodwill and to build right human relations, will
feature an article on the Day in their newsletter as well as on their
website, www.worldgoodwill.org <http://www.worldgoodwill.org>. In addition,
their parent body The Lucis Trust will be holding a public meditation
meeting on September 21st 2002 and will make mention of the Day then.
The World Conference on Religion and Peace
<http://www.euconflict.org/euconflict/guides/orgs/global/86.htm> (WCRP) has
committed to the creation of a 'World Peace Prayer' to be recited annually
on September 21st in all places of worship and meditation throughout the
world. The prayer will be created with the broadest possible inter-religious
consultations worldwide to ensure the highest level of inter-faith
participation on the Day.
Australia
Brotherhood of St Laurence <http://www.bsl.org.au/> is
actively seeking partners to share responsibility for the creation of events
throughout Australia on the day.
Anna Devos from Victoria, Australia commits that "within the
community I plan to raise as much awareness as possible in young people,
through my work at primary schools and with other young people. On a more
personal level, I will get as many friends and family together as possible
to share and enjoy time, peace and maybe a bit of food!"
Lisa Risbridger at Learning Dimensions "is holding an event
in Melbourne, Australia, on the Day. The desire to bring together varying
groups of society, enabling all to celebrate the concept of Peace with the
'Hope of Peace' to come one day for all individuals, families and nations.
We wish to support the Peace One Day global awareness campaign. So, watch
this space as we progress."
United Nations Association of Australia will publicise
information about the Day to members around Australia. Will keep posted on
particulars in due course.
Algeria
Le Mouvement Ecologique Algérian (M.E.A.) - The President of
the MEA supports the initiative and will plan celebrations to mark the Day.
Bahrain*
Instructions have been given to the divisions within the
Ministry of Education to develop some ideas and initiatives for the
occasion.
Bolivia
Nur University
<http://www.monafoundation.org/projects/nur/index.shtml> is considering the
most effective way to contribute to the UN International Day of Peace, a day
of global ceasefire. We'll keep you posted of any developments as they come
in.
Cambodia*
King Norodom Sihanouk: "The government of Cambodia will
appropriately commemorate this very significant International Day of Peace".
Canada*
Government of Newfoundland and Labrador have asked
Department of Education officials to advice school board districts in
Newfoundland and Labrador of the significance of the date so that the boards
may, in turn, encourage schools under their jurisdiction to hold special
commemoration ceremonies.
Colombia*
President Andres Pastrana Aranga: The Colombian government
'unquestionably backs this initiative, so that they can show the world that
is not through violence that we will achieve the peace that we all seek.
Correspondence has been passed on to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for
their consideration and relevant conclusions'.
Congo
Association des Moralistes Congolais will organise
conferences and debates on topics related to peace, violence, brotherhood,
human rights.
Life-Link Congo have formed a committee for the organisation
of the day and will begin to interest the relevant political authorities,
the media, Other NGO's and the Schools in Congo for their participation in
this event. Contact: <pelas_er@yahoo.fr>
Croatia*
Office of President Stjepan Mesic "Croatian misfortune ...
in the expired decade obliges us even more for the struggle [for] peace and
prosperity. Therefore the Croatian authorities will participate and support
this activity in the most appropriate way."
Cyprus
Pan-Cyprian Association for the Protection of Human Rights
<http://agrino.org/humrights/main/main.htm> (NGO) has committed to creating
awareness of the UN International Day of Peace, a day of global ceasefire in
the Republic of Cyprus.
Cyprus Peace Council "welcome your invitation and we pledge
to publicize the UN G.A. Resolution and work to promote the idea of Global
Ceasefire and non violence to be observed on 21st September as a good
beginning towards Global peace."
Czech Republic*
The President and his office will dedicate time and
attention to this matter. The President acknowledges the initiative to
arrange for an open dialogue with his country's institutions concerning the
best possible fulfilment of the global ceasefire day, and has forwarded the
material to The Czech Ministry for Foreign Affairs.
El Salvador
Commission for Human Rights (CDHES) are finding a project,
which will enable them to celebrate a new festival on the 21st September
2002. CDHES have also been publishing details of Peace One Day on their
bulletin "La Voz" distributed nationally and internationally.
The Gambia*
The government of the Republic of The Gambia pledge to work
towards achieving the aims and objectives and vision for a day of global
ceasefire and fully support the global Peace One Day operations. In order
to participate in raising global awareness of the United Nations
International Day of Peace the Gambian government is currently supporting
educational and public awareness campaigns for global peace from the grass
root level by using the media.
Ghana
Amazing Saving Grace will volunteer and work effectively and
efficiently to create maximum awareness and support in all the educational
institutions in their communities, regions, and also to all parts Ghana.
ASG is dedicated to recognising the potentialities, vision and mission of
this great and fruitful initiative at this dawn of globalisation and in the
era of the 21st Century, as the vapour of peace had evaporated into thin
air. Contact: <mailto:asg@tdpo.africaonline.com.gh>
Environment and Development Association of Ghana (EDAG) is
organising a workshop on Peace One Day for 100 people drawn up from ethnic
groups in Ghana. In addition, to help strengthen and co-ordinate Peace One
Day's activities in Ghana, EDAG and other interested parties would like to
form Ghana NGO Coalition on Peace One Day - GNCOPOD.
International Christian Fellowship Association for Child
Care (Ghana) is planning a massive peace festival on 21st September 2002.
India
City Montessori School Lucknow, India will observe the
International Day of Peace as a day of global ceasefire and non-violence in
all branches of their schools on 21st September every year.
"We plan to organise the following activities on Annual Day of global
ceasefire and non-violence.
1. Prayers.
2. Educating children about the need of world peace and
reading out UN GA resolution 55/282 by the Principle or a teacher.
3. Brief talks by teachers and students on the current
international conflicts in middle East, India and Pakistan and global
terrorism, causing devastation, killing of innocent lives, loss of property
and sense insecurity.
4. Talk on Mahatma Ghandi's non-violent freedom
movement, which won freedom to India".
Gandhi In Action <21.03 21.9 - COMMIT - Spirituality -
GIA.doc> Following is the tentative program for the 21st September 2002, in
India.
1. Hold conferences and Seminars to involve people from all
walks of life.
2. Peace rallies of the students of schools, colleges and
universities involving local voluntary groups and Gandhian organizations.
3. A National level Youth rally to be organized in New Delhi
on the 21st Sept. 2002.
4. Campaign against increasing defence budgets and war
mania.
The Indian Society of Human Rights and the Centre for Legal
Aid and Public Interest Law are planning to commemorate 21st September 2002
as the day of peace and global unity by bringing out press releases to
create awareness for global peace and will distribute pamphlets to spread
the message of universal brotherhood.
Peace and Disarmament Society of Kerala (PADS) is organising
and coordinating a state level action campaign programme for 21st September
2002.
Yoga, India
Head of Yoga: "As you are aware, India - the land of Mahatma Gandhi
- believes in the principle of Non-Violence, not only as a state policy
but also at citizen's level. We intend to get the wordings of the Resolution
Printed on a large size board and display it at a prominent place on
permanent bases. By so doing, we assure that each one of approximately 1000
of the participants who visit the Institute everyday get the message of
peace embedded into their very lifestyle. We shall also proudly
screen the 8 - minute film forwarded by you along with your letter in some
of our sessions and important functions which are attended by
different professionals like politicians, bureaucrats, teachers,
householders, doctors, academicians etc... We will try to observe 21st
September every year as 'The International Day Of Peace', which is
absolutely necessary for a country like ours, which has faced terrorism
for decades. Not only is it imperative for each Indian to believe in peace
but citizens of all the nations combined because the world as a whole is
facing terrorism."
Ireland
Glencree Centre for Reconciliation
<http:..www.glencree-cfr.ie> is considering how best to mark the event.
We'll keep you posted on any updates as they come in.
Irish Peace Institute <http://www.ul.ie/ipi> plan to
collaborate with the student organisation here in Limerick
(Irish Peace Society) to hold a series of lectures from
contributors to our recent publication 'Pens for Peace' throughout the day
at various venues including the University of Limerick and the Hunt Museum
in Limerick city.
Kenya
Kenyan Peace Promoters plan to reach out to people in the
rural areas of the country, and inform them about the Peace One Day
campaign. They also plan to distribute plenty of information to people in
the urban areas. They hope to be able to visit various organisations and
institutions within the city and its environs. They shall endeavour to
spread out as far as possible, mainly working in Nairobi where they are
based. They are arranging how they could use the media to create awareness
of the campaign (amongst) a large number of people nationally, as we
approach the (21st September).
St Teresa's Girls Primary School "we, the community of St.
Teresa's Girls Primary have a poem composed by me the Headteacher, and being
recited by Class 7 and 8 girls as our contribution to World Peace Day. We
know what peace means to the world and would always come in handy whenever
called upon."
Lithuania *
Office of President Valdas Adamkus "we have distributed
information on the UN International Day of Peace, a day of global ceasefire
and non-violence to the non-governmental organisations that might be
interested to support and join [the] initiative".
Mexico *
Ministry of Foreign Affairs: "Mexico will support the global
action in favour of the prevention of conflicts, fostering a culture of
peace and no violence for which celebrating the UN International Day of
Peace, a day of global ceasefire is a positive contribution".
Helen Samuels is in the final negotiations for a Peace One
Day event in Mexico City. She is planning a 30-hour celebration with
activities planned for all ages. Watch this space for more details.
Middle East
Friends of the Earth, Middle East
<http://www.foei.org/groups/members/middleeast.html> will support the Day in
any way they can. We'll keep you posted on any developments as they happen.
Morocco
Moroccan Association for Environmental Protection "welcomes
the initiative and will be happy to take part in it. Plans as to how best
mark the UN International Day of Peace, a day of global ceasefire, are still
under consideration." We'll keep you posted on any updates as they come in.
New Zealand
Peace Through Unity "initiated a Wanganui Culture of Peace
Sculpture Competition in the year 2000 and the winning design, created by
artist Ross Mitchell-Anyon, is now in the process of being built on public
ground with the kind permission and cooperation of Wanganui District
Council, under builder Jamie O'Leary's supervision. The 21 September has
been chosen for the day the community will celebrate the completion of this
project. The Honourable Dame Silvia Cartwright, New Zealand
Governor-General, who has been most supportive of this project, will join us
in the celebrations. Details still to be worked out."
Nigeria*
The Honourable Minister of Education, Federal Ministry of
Education, has approved that the 21st September 2002 be marked as the day of
global ceasefire.
Family Research Council of Nigeria will be funding the
distribution of letters about
Peace One Day and why people and organizations should
support the 21st September 2002 ceremony, to one million people all over the
world who are on their mailing list. This letter and other information will
be sent out by the month of July. In the month of August the Family
Research Council of Nigeria will forward information about Peace One Day and
the ceremony of 21st September 2002 to all schools and colleges in the
Federal Republic of Nigeria on their peace education Network. They will send
out posters and newsletters that will enable people to make their own plans
for the ceremony.
On the 21st September 2002, they will fund a church service
to mark the International Day of Peace, a day of global cease fire. They
will invite press into the service to record the program, granting
interviews for publication in newspapers.
The Oke Tude Youth, The True Message of God Mission, wish to
pledge that they will observe the prayer with fasting during a 24-hour
vigil, in their place of worship, by group members from the community.
Pelorus Nigeria, President & CEO: "We shall now observe the
day with the people of Amaekpu Ohafia Community in Ohafia Local Government
Area of Abia state. We will be funding the Amaekpu community New Yam
festival for 2002. This occasion has been billed as a day of peace,
reconciliation and re-unification between different sections and people of
Amaekpu Ohafia community. This community has been at loggerheads with
themselves for the past ten years in which they have witnessed real crisis,
hatred and virtual disintegration as a people. During the occasion
scheduled to commence on 21/9/2002 and terminating on 28/9/2002, His Royal
Majesty, Eze Prof. Dr. Emea O. Arua, the Ezeogo (Monarch) of Amaekpu Ohafia
will amongst other things give a public lecture to the entire community on
the essence and need for peace and global cease fire. His Royal Majesty
himself has been most supportive of this programme. From all intentions and
indications, this new programme by Pelorus whilst achieving its major
objective of reuniting the Amaekpu community, will be a carnival of a sort
as many dance groups had been invited to perform in the peace and
reconciliation celebrations, which will culminate in the communities annual
new yam festivals. The occasion will offer free entertainment to a reunited
community members."
Pakistan
Co-operation for Peace and Unity (CPAU) are planning to
observe the Day along with 30,000 students in their schools with guest
speakers. Students will also be given the opportunity to express their
views about peace. CPAU are also willing to inform all their contacts about
the Day and create thousands of posters, distributing them as widely as
possible. They are also inviting the media to broadcast their activities on
the Day.
Shamsheer Ali says "I commit myself as an individual to use
my influences in NGOs in my town and elsewhere in Pakistan 'to honour and
celebrate the UN International Day of Peace' and introduce Peace One Day to
them. I will keep you posted of the progress made."
Panama*
Minister of Foreign Relations "The Republic of Panama will
promote the celebration of the UN International Day of Peace, a day of
global ceasefire and expresses its readiness to exchange ideas and
suggestions with [Peace One Day] to achieve the full realisation of this
noble objective".
Philippines
St. Benedict College, Muntinlupa City, Philippines has
forwarded information to at least 20 schools and colleges in the Philippines
via their Peace Education Network. The UN International day of Peace, a day
of global ceasefire coincides with their Peace Congress of Grade Scholars
and some affiliated celebration will hopefully take place.
Romania*
Ministry of Education and Research have given their full
commitment to initiating and organising activities to mark the forthcoming
UN International Day of Peace, a day of global ceasefire.
Institute for Regional Co-operation and Conflict Prevention
(INCOR) is setting up a regional initiative for the Day in the field of
culture and religious dialogue.
Russia
International Foundation for Socio-Economic and Political
Research (the Gorbachev Foundation) shall try to use the 21st September 2002
to organise, within the framework of their foundation, the events supporting
the rigorous observance and broadening the time frame of the cease-fire on
earth, with the ultimate aim to achieve the complete elimination of wars and
any other forms of armed violence from the life of the world community.
Sierra Leone
Friends of the Earth, Sierra Leone
<http://www.foei.org/groups/members/sierraleone.html> has invited
individuals and groups to discuss and plan for the Day. We'll keep you
posted on any developments as they happen.
Slovak Republic*
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Slovak Republic,
Director, United Nations Department:
"Slovakia, as one of the co-sponsors of the UN GA resolution
55/282, is wholeheartedly committed to ideas of global peace and
non-violence. The Slovak authorities fully support the objectives and
activities of Peace One Day and have already begun preparations for the
appropriate commemoration of the Day. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has
distributed information on the Day to the relevant institutions and through
the public notice on it's website and media channels it acquainted the
people of Slovakia from all walks of life with the ideas of International
Peace Day observance. I shall keep you informed about further preparations
of the commemoration of the Day in due course."
Slovenia*
On behalf of the President: "It is our common commitment to
ensure that the day becomes one of practical significance for the global
community, serving as an opportunity for all the activities and initiatives
that may help unite people."
South Africa*
The Ministry of Education will mark the Day as part of their
Values in Education Programme of Action (seeking to obtain commitment from
teachers, learners and policy makers, to the values in the South African
Constitution, including values of democracy, human dignity and
reconciliation). Artwork, creative writing and presentations on the theme of
'Past conflicts - future peace' will aim to make young students aware of the
importance of peace.
Centre for Conflict Resolution
<http://ccrweb.ccr.uct.ac.za/> is considering how best to mark the UN
International Day of Peace, a day of global ceasefire. We'll keep you
posted on any updates as they come in.
Sri Lanka
Krishna, Sri Lankan musician, will do everything possible to
make the day happen in Sri Lanka.
Samasevaya (NGO) is organizing a series of activities to
commemorate the Day effectively. Contact: samasev@sltnet.lk
<mailto:samasev@sltnet.lk>
Taiwan
Peace Time Foundation of Taiwan <http://www.peace.org.tw/>
are organising a peace parade in Taipei (capital of Taiwan) to commemorate
the ceasefire day.
UK
A>>B Centre is organising a group ride for cyclists and
'conscious commuters' on the 21st of September. Departing from Portobello
Road at noon, to loop around London until nightfall. We will have strategic
stops at specified pubs, to refresh and recruit more riders throughout the
day. The emphasis will be community, music, and fun in the sun, to benefit
Peace (on the streets) One Day.
Arsenal Football Club Plc "will ensure that a piece on
'Peace One Day' will appear in our September 21st programme, which will be
against Bolton Wanderers."
The Elbow Room, London are delighted to be involved in
'Peace for one Day' and they will be holding a Pool for Peace Event on 21st
September 2002.
Bracknell Forest Unitary Authority
<http://www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/index.htm> is holding a music event
during the day on 21st September, and will have a laser show in the evening
spelling out 'Peace One Day' and the 'global ceasefire day'.
Bradford University <http://www.brad.ac.uk/external/>
students are setting up a group to develop their commitment on the Day.
Bournemouth Youth Council the Young People from Bournemouth
Youth Council are arranging 'peace@the_pier' from 12:00-6:00pm on 21st
September on Bournemouth Pier.
The event will provide an opportunity for Young People
across the Borough to perform and show case their talents in one of
Bournemouth's prime locations. With Young People providing the entertainment
with live musical acts, dancers, DJ's, comedians and a host of other varied
performances running continuously throughout the day, with a range of other
attractions and things for people to play on. Contact on
byc@bournemouth.gov.uk <mailto:byc@bournemouth.gov.uk>.
Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament (CND) UK
<http://www.cnduk.org/> "supports Peace One Day and is encouraging people to
start planning to get together in every country and in your own community to
celebrate this first ever global cease-fire day and to communicate any
commitments directly to POD so that they can be put on the website."
Amanda Chapman will organise an activity at work, and within
her local SGI Buddhist group.
Children in London will be bringing their toy guns to
Finsbury Park, London (UK), in a mock amnesty.
Alan Cotton the international artist has committed to create
a picture on the Day and donate it to Peace One Day. It will then be
auctioned off with the profits going to the campaign.
Stephanie Cowton "my commitment is to write an article on
what people can do and how they can celebrate the ceasefire day and place it
in the college newsletter."
Erin Currin "I commit to spreading the word about Peace One
Day."
Diocese of Southwark <http://www.dswark.org/> is informing
the various peace groups in the Diocese of Peace One Day and the
establishment of the UN International Day of Peace, a day of global
ceasefire. The next edition of the 'Southwark Justice and Peace News' will
contain an article on Peace One Day and our work in establishing the UN
International Day of Peace, a day of global ceasefire, and thus ensure that
the local groups in the Diocese acknowledge and support the day in ways that
they can organise at a local level. The priests of the Diocese will be
made aware of the UN International Day of Peace, a day of global ceasefire
through the Ad Clerum, that is a newsletter from myself to the priests and
deacons of the Diocese. They will be encouraged to support the Day by their
prayers and those of the people in their parishes.
Diocese of Westminster
<http://www.westminsterdiocese.org.uk/> has notified their clergy and have
put the day into their calendar for 2002, together with details of this
website.
Diocese of Wrexham <http://we.r-c.org.uk/> The Bishop of
Wrexham "is hosting an inter-faith service to commemorate Peace One Day,
which will be held outside the Cathedral in Wrexham at 10.00am on 21st
September. This day is being organised by the Diocesan Peace & Justice
Commission with the active support of the Bishop and the Dean of the
Cathedral. We shall certainly pray that this
'Peace One Day' will bear great fruit for the happiness of
humanity."
East Anglia North Buddhist SGI Chapter are committed to
raising awareness and is in the process of organising an event. More details
to follow later.
Edinburgh & Fife Buddhist SGI-UK Chapter ...and local
members of the 'Buddhist Society for the creation of value through peace,
education and culture' "are to organise a 24-hour chain of chanting from
midnight to midnight on the 21 September with prayers for the success of
every single activity and for the sake of peace!"
Exeter Quakers On September 20th Exeter Quakers are inviting
members of the Muslim, Jewish and Bahai communities and all those concerned
for Peace to join them at the weekly Peace Vigil in Bedford Square from 5-6
and to bring food to share at the Friends Meeting House afterwards.
On September 21st at request of Devon County Council, the
Woodcraft folk are organising Devon Peace Day in Northernhay Gardens (venue
to be confirmed) from 1-6. Many organisations are being invited and Exeter
CND will be having a stall there.
Natalie Fee "I am very much into the concept that peace
starts from within; a peaceful person inspires peace in the family, peaceful
family inspires peaceful community, peaceful community inspires peaceful
nation and so on. I intend to organise at least one group meditation on
peace one day, to compliment any 'outer' activity I am involved in. The idea
of which is to bring our awareness to the place of infinite peace that
resides in each of us."
Jay Francis "I will be joining Peace One Day for their event
in London, England on the 21st September 2002."
Garden Ling Buddhist Centre "we are making plans to mark the
Day on September 14th as we cannot do the 21st. We plan to hire a Scouts
outdoor activity centre for the Day and to mix Buddhist/Christian prayers
and meditation for peace with a day of activities for children and general
mixing and socialising. We plan to begin the Day with family prayers, have a
morning of activities and lunch together followed by more prayers then
activities."
Chris Gardner will be organising an event on this very
special day on the 21/9, here in Stroud at the local theatre. "I am a member
of Soka Gakkai International, and having attended the Peace convention at
Wembley, we decided that we should hold a similar event here, on a more
local level. We aim to have a mix of speakers and entertainment, and a range
of ages, as we want every generation to be involved."
General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, Committee on
Church and Nation.
At the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland in May
2002, the report of the Committee on Church and Nation contained this short
passage:
"Peace One Day The United Nations with the support of many
national governments including, prominently, that of the United Kingdom, is
promoting the introduction of an annual Global Ceasefire Day. This is to be
marked for the first time on September 21st 2002. The churches have been
asked to give this initiative their support and the Committee believes that
it would be right for the Church of Scotland to do so. We do not propose to
make any suggestions about how this might be done, but we believe that local
groups and congregations will find ways of marking the day in appropriate
ways. For those who wish to find out more, this can be done at
www.peaceoneday.org <http://www.peaceoneday.org>." Subsequently, the General
Assembly agreed the following Deliverance:
"Encourage congregations to mark 21 September 2002 as the
first Global Ceasefire Day."
Global Peace Campaign (Mid Sussex) are holding a Peace One
Day event in mid Sussex, with the purpose of bringing together local
organisations to explore issues relating to world peace.
Greenwich Young People's Council "are organising a human
chain for peace around Greenwich on the Day, involving young people from
primary and secondary schools in the borough. To get involved please contact
Greenwich Young People's Council through the British Youth Council
<http://www.byc.org.uk/>."
Griffon "my commitment is to bring Peace and Love with me."
Harold's Planet are designing an animated Peace One Day
electronic greetings card which will be available on www.peaceoneday.org
<http://www.peaceoneday.org> and on their website www.haroldsplanet.co.uk
<http://www.haroldsplanet.co.uk> for people to send to each other helping to
raise awareness of the 21st September as the UN International Day of Peace,
a day of global ceasefire and non-violence.
Suzy Harvey will be bringing her family and friends together
for a peace dinner on the 21st September.
The Holy Innocents Church Justice and Peace Group
The Holy Innocents Church Justice and Peace Group plan to
organise a special mass for the day.
Charlotte Jackson "as I am a Pagan I will honour this day by
performing a personal ritual to send out loving thoughts to the world. I
will also be telling everyone I know to commit to this wonderful day of
peace".
Caron Jones "to raise awareness of the plight of refugees
and also unfair trade, which affects poor countries by marking the 21st
September with a special event at my vegetarian café."
Matt Kemp is making a pilgrimage on foot for 40 days,
covering 750 km, from St Jean Pied de Port on the French side of the
Pyrenees to the shrine of Santiago (St James) in Compostela, Galicia, Spain.
Matt's target is to raise £10 for every kilometre walked. Money goes to
Peace One Day.
Wendy Lee "Richard Branson's speech at Peace One Day, in
London on 12th June, was so inspiring that I have committed to make up with
my sister-in-law, whom I have not spoken to for 8 years. It won't be easy."
Helen Lees "During the Autumn Equinox festival, also 21st
September, I will focus the group meditation on world peace, adding our
thoughts to the growing impulse towards a more harmonious world, for us now
and for future generations."
Cate Luff "I will lobby the local parish and City Councils
in Hampshire to gain their support in promoting the campaign within the
region. I will also work with local interest groups to organize a balloon
release of peace-pledges on the 21st in my hometown".
The Meditation School <http://www.themeditationschool.com/>
has a link to Peace One Day on their website to raise people's awareness of
the day. We'll keep you posted on any updates as they come in.
Mothers for Peace "celebrate their 21 years of peacemaking
on the 20/21st of September with the installation of a seat in Tavistock
Square and a party at the Quaker International Centre.
We aim to have the seat ceremony to coincide with the
historic Peace One Day and the UN International Day of Peace on the 21st.
The seat will bear a plaque with the words of the Quaker poster, which
inspired our founders, Lucy Behenna and Marion Mansergh:
"World Peace will come through the will of ordinary People
like yourself". We see great significance in this date and resolve ourselves
to further developing our peacemaking towards global ceasefire and
non-violence."
Karen Moody "I will begin now by passing on information to
friends. As a teacher I will share the information with my students and use
it as an opportunity to discuss, write about, and raise awareness of peace."
Movement for the Abolition of War (MAW) have included an
article on Peace One Day in their February 2002 newsletter, and will
encourage all those on their mailing list to make their own plans for that
day.
Musicians Against Nuclear Arms will mention this special day
in their Newsletter, which is sent to 400 members throughout Britain.
The National Association of Youth Theatres is encouraging
its membership from across the UK to put together a piece of theatre
entitled 'Peace One Day'. This could involve literally thousands of
children.
Nottingham Students Peace Movement
<http://communities.msn.co.uk/NottinghamStudentsPeaceMovement>, based at the
University of Nottingham (UK), working with all students in the Nottingham
area, are keen to help promote September 21 on campus and in the city.
Old Red Lion Theatre Ventures will perform a new play
'Waiting for The Angels' by Seamus Finngan. The play reflects the themes of
inner and outer peace and the possibility of forgiveness. Performed 17.09.02
- 12.10.02.
Pacifist Party/Peace Co-operation Environment The Pacifist
Party will be holding a stall in North Street, Guildford 21.9.02. Leaflets
will be given out to passers-by, petitions will be available, sign and
badges, pamphlets and books about all aspects of peace will available for
purchase.
The emphasis on 21st September this year will be on support
for the UN International Day of Peace, a day of global ceasefire and
non-violence.
Pax Christi UK <http://www.paxchristi.net/> will be
informing their members about this initiative.
Peace One Day events for young people in the UK on the 21st
September have been confirmed in the following Local Education Authorities
(LEAs) or Unitary Authorities.
Barnsley Hartlepool
Bath and North East Somerset Isle of
Wight
Blackburn Kensington
and Chelsea
Bournemouth Kent
Bracknell Forest Lancashire
Brent Merton
Bristol Newham
Bromley Norfolk
Camden Portsmouth
Cumbria Richmond
Darlington Rutland
Derby City St. Helens
Devon Solihull
Dorset
Southend-on-Sea
East Sussex Sutton
Greenwich
Westminster
Harrow Weymouth
Wiltshire
Peace Petal Kids Project "my project is to make a giant
human flower in Fryant Country Park, Wembley, to celebrate the idea of peace
as a possibility. It involves 6 junior schools in Brent, total number of
children 1540, so far, aged between 4-11. The event is planned for Friday
afternoon 20th September 2002 and we are looking for support / sponsorship
for an aerial photo, pom-poms and badges."
Pembrokeshire SGI-UK Buddhist group is organizing a
networked event involving young people throughout the county mostly with
youth clubs and other youth organizations.
Quakers UK <http://www.quaker.org.uk/> will be publicising
the Peace One Day idea through their peace networks among Quakers and other
activists in their forthcoming publications over the next few months.
Quaker Group, Bridlington will be celebrating peace,
10am-5pm 21.9.02, Key Road, Haverlock Street, Bridlington, UK.
The Reform Synagogues of Great Britain
<http://www.refsyn.org.uk/home/shtml> and the Union of Liberal and
Progressive Synagogues <http://www.ulps.org/> "wholeheartedly endorse the
aims of Peace One Day. 21st September - global ceasefire day - falls this
year, not only on Shabbat, but also during the festival of Sukkot or
Tabernacles. At this time it is a Jewish tradition to construct 'booths'
open to the elements, to eat in them and to invite special guests. We
intend to show our commitment to the UN International Day of Peace, a day of
global ceasefire by encouraging all of our synagogues and constituent
organisations to work towards the day with special educational programmes to
raise awareness of the wider issues and how we can all make a difference.
We hope to mark the day itself with the construction in London of a large
communal Sukkah for Peace in a public place."
Richmond Unitarian Church will be holding a celebration of
peace on 21.9.02 at 3pm at the Richmond Unitarian Church, Ormond Road,
Richmond, London, UK.
Kirsten Rose "I commit to write a song for peace one day and
to perform it and inform my audiences about POD at every show I play before
21st September... and after."
Helen Sheppard "I will create awareness through my art and
music i.e. printing postcards, singing songs for 21st Sept 02 and will try
to put on a benefit concert here in Paignton in Devon gathering up all the
local talent and through radio and press make this area aware."
Amanda Jane Smith is asking for Peace Rose Gardens
throughout the world to mark the UN International day of Peace, a day of
global ceasefire. She is also asking mothers to come together with their
babies for 'peace baby tea parties' on the Day. As the children grow they
will linked through their association with the Day.
Unitarian and Free Christian Churches
<http://www.unitarian.org.uk/> have passed a resolution at their General
Assembly asking the General Secretary to write to the British government
urging national observance of the Day - this letter has now been sent. The
resolution suggests that all constituent congregations, affiliated societies
and individual members write to their local members of parliament urging the
British government to support the Day at the international level. The
resolution also urges all constituent congregations, affiliated societies
and individual members to find appropriate ways in which they can mark the
Day in their local communities. Update will follow.
The Unitarian Peace Fellowship is organising a public
meeting at Oat Street Unitarian Chapel in Evesham on Saturday 21 September
to mark the occasion. The event starts at 2pm and the title for the day is
"The Humanitarian Cost of War". The speaker will be Brian Johnson-Thomas, a
journalist involved with the International Action Network on Small Arms.
Wallasey, CND "to mark this occasion, Wallasey CND are
inviting people to join them at Earlston Road Library Wallasey on 21.9 2pm -
4pm for a exhibition of peace archive materials and an opportunity for
children to draw their vision of peace for all."
Sarah E. Wellinger "I will invite everyone in my e-mail
address book to join in the International Day of Peace. Also, I will invite
relatives and close friends to attend the evening Mass at my church to pray
for peace on September 21st. This will be followed by a get-together at my
home to discuss what we can do personally to promote global peace."
Gill Williams "to raise awareness of the day in every
possible way and organise a shared meal for peace at my place of work."
Wolverhampton CND will be celebrating the Day on 21.9.02 and
will be writing about Peace One Day in the Wolverhampton CND Bulletin.
Standard Chartered markets bank are posting a statement on
their intranet to promote the UN International Day of Peace as a day of
global ceasefire and non-violence.
USA
Dan and Brenda Cooke will be hosting a dinner party in
Dallas, TX for friends and family to celebrate the day.
Individuals will gather in Brooklyn, NY at Prospect Park to
Walk For Peace in celebration of the Day. If you would like to register for
the Walk (it's free) or would like further information on this event, please
email:peaceonedayUSA@hotmail.com <:peaceonedayusa@hotmail.com>.
Medical Mission Sisters is holding individual and group
gatherings for prayer and sharing about the power of non-violence in the
face of so much violence in evidence in our world.
Promoting Enduring Peace Inc. is planning as to how best
celebrate the UN International Day of Peace, a day of global ceasefire. It
is also circulating material to all the peace activists in Connecticut.
We'll keep you posted on any updates as they come in.
Tahoe International Film Festival, Friends at Lake Tahoe "we
here will be holding hands entirely around LAKE TAHOE beginning at 12 noon
on 21/9, we invite all those with peaceful intentions to hold 2 hands of
some others together at that time. . . as well just where you're are at
where ever you happen to be and we will all be holding hands around the
world, following the sun around the planet and then we shall take a walk in
our communities singing the songs of peace and we will light a candle at
sunset then simply keeping it lit in our hearts throughout our lives . . .
forever. The WORLD is now changed as the light bearers unite . . .in PEACE
and PURPOSE."
United Gay and Lesbian Peace Corps will begin a campaign
with their members on April 1st 2002. This campaign, in promotion of the UN
International Day of Peace, a day of global ceasefire, will consist of
the distribution of flyers and pamphlets, a page on their web site dedicated
to Peace One Day, and promotion towards the local governments and GLBT
charters of their members.
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