Dear Editor,
On Sept. 21 it once again is time for our annual peace rally! This local event will honor the International Day of Peace that was declared internationally in 1981. The observance of this event will be held in Kingman at Locomotive Park from 11:30 to 1:00. Come join other like-minded peace loving people for the non-partisan/sectarian gathering to celebrate the joys and wonders of peace. Come learn about peace, peace cranes, peace flags, engage in peace activities, and in general share your support for peace with others. Bring your peace signs to display and show your support for peace to passers-by.
This day will begin at noon for a moment of silence to observe the traditional silent moment of reflection devoted to peace across all time zones in a gigantic peace wave. Follows, there will be a bell-ringing ceremony at noon. Note that the bell-ringing tradition began in 1954 after an international peace organization was gifted a bell made of melted coins collected from around the world by Japanese children and given to the organization for a use of their choosing.
This year’s theme is: Actions For Peace. It is a call to action for all global citizens to recognize each of our individual and collective responsibility to foster peace. Ushering in peace contributes to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals to create a culture of peace for all. Search online for: “sustainable development goals” for more detailed information as it is too complex to summarize here other than to say the goals are all inclusive in terms of the maintenance of peace and best implemented when done by us all.
The Sustainable Development goals are designed to bring us closer to having more peaceful, just, and inclusive societies, free from fear and violence. Together we can help to lead our world towards a more equitable, just, and secure future for all world citizens. All nations are called to suspend hostilities for just one day to allow the sweet ambrosia of peace to permeate our psyches for today’s children and all of our futures.
You are invited to Kingman’s ceremony to join others at 11:30 on Sept. 21 at Locomotive Park and invites you to take action for peace by supporting equality, driving action on climate change in support of greener policies and habits, and promoting and protecting human rights. If you are unable to join the gathering 9/21 at noon take a moment at noon to silently contemplate your commitment and promotion of peace … however hope to see you the 21st!
Christine Meisenheimer
