In November 1981, the International Day of Peace was adopted by the United Nations through unanimous Resolution. The Resolution stated that the day should be devoted to “commemorating and strengthening the ideals of peace both within and among all nations and peoples.” For the text of the U.N. Resolution, CLICK HERE.
In 2001, a second Peace Day resolution was introduced through the efforts of a U.K based NGO, Peace One Day. This second resolution had great significance, because it established September 21 as the specific day each year to celebrate Peace Day. The resolution further stated that September 21 should be observed “as a day of global ceasefire and non-violence” and an invitation to all nations and people to honor a “cessation of hostilities for the duration of the day.” For the text of this second unanimous UN resolution, CLICK HERE.
Chicago Build the Peace Committee
Chicago has the longest standing Peace Day observance, which began even prior to the first UN Resolution in support of Peace Day in 1981. The Peace School founded Chicago’s Peace Day in 1978 and was named a UN Peace Messenger in 1987. Annual Peace Day activities include a downtown outdoor celebration including public officials, speakers, live music, world flag ceremony and the global Minute of Silence. Chicago’s Build the Peace also provides suggested peace activities to the Chicago public school system in order to engage children and youth across the city in the day.
Check out their Peace Day RESOURCES.
CHICAGO BUILD THE PEACE PROGRAM, 2014
GLOBAL MESSAGES OF SUPPORT FOR PEACE DAY…
On the International Day of Peace, we reflect on the cruel price of war. Ruined schools. Bombed hospitals. Broken families. Refugees searching for hope. Countries in crisis. The United Nations was born from a terrible World War. Our mission is to work for peace — every day and everywhere. No group interest, national ambition or political difference should be allowed to put peace at risk. On this International Day, we call for a global ceasefire. We must never — ever — stop pressing for an end to armed conflict. Peace is the right and the desire of all people. It is the foundation for progress and well-being – happy children, thriving communities, and peaceful, prosperous countries. Let us pledge to work together – today and every day – for the peace we all yearn for and deserve. – UN Secretary-General António Guterres
Every year on the International Day of Peace, the United Nations calls on the people of the world to reaffirm their commitment to living in harmony as members of a single human family. This year’s commemoration, “Partnerships for Peace – Dignity for All”, highlights the importance of cooperation in silencing the guns and advancing the cause. Without the support of governments, civil society, the private sector, faith-based groups and non-governmental organizations, peace will remain elusive. Together, as “partners for peace”, we can achieve a world of peace, prosperity and dignity for all. – Former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon
On the International Day of Peace this year, join us in our celebrations and in making resolutions for each of us to do our part in working toward environmental sustainability. We cannot achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) unless we work together to make this a better world for people, other animals and the environment. – UN Messenger of Peace and Founder of Roots and Shoots Dr. Jane Goodall
The United Nations has given those who love peace a great and profound gift — International Day of Peace. Since 1981, awareness of this gift has traveled around the world to impact the lives of individuals and families on every continent. – J. Fred Arment, Founder – International Cities of Peace
I am calling on all cities around the world to organize something for the International Day of Peace. The world needs you. For the world to be better, it requires each and every one of us to light their candle. So, LIGHT YOUR CANDLE. – Global Performer & Former Child Soldier from South Sudan Emmanuel Jal
