There is something refreshing about starting a new year. It is a chance to look back over the past and resolve to step out in a new direction. New Year’s Day is one of the oldest holidays celebrated. Worldwide people gather with family, eat special foods, make noise, toast each other, and resolve to better their lives. Have you considered doing one thing for peace?

The Do One Thing for Peace initiative is sponsored Emily’s Fund for a Better World founded in memory of Emily Silverstein who died tragically and violently at the age of nineteen.  Due to their efforts January 1st has been named a day of peace by UN Resolution and by a Joint Act of Congress. It is also Global Family Day: a time for families to come together for a meal and talk about how they can help make the world a better place.

Here are four things you can do on January 1st.

1. Resolve to do one thing to create a culture of peace every day. Just imagine if everybody who read this actually did that, how much better so many lives would be?
2. Plan an event such as a family meal for January 1st and together make a peace resolution for the group to carry out. Just think of how much easier taking action will be with a group of supporters by your side?
3. Download the One Day in Peace handout, posters, and the coloring book (scroll to bottom of page for download link) which features world-famous people who have worked for peace to share with your children and students.
4. Support organizations working toward peace in the world. Find an organization whose goals you support and help them in any way you can – with time, with money, and by spreading the word.

Below is a list of some of the many dedicated groups in addition to Emily’s Project working for peace in this world. If you have others to suggest please let us know.

Amnesty International Fighting for human rights world-wide

Control Arms Working to diminish world trade in armaments

Human Rights Watch  Defends human rights

One World Reports on and fosters social action to fight poverty through media

Peace-Action A national organization with hundreds of local affiliates that organizes and inspires people to work for peace.

Peace Women Founded 100 years ago, the Women’s International League for Peace and freedom works for women’s rights and conflict prevention

Play for Peace Promotes friendships between children especially those from different cultures and from groups in conflict

Promundo Works with men to promote gender equity

Seeds of Peace  Trains and educates future peace leaders and educators

United States Institute of Peace A non-partisan, non-profit independent organization funded by the US to find peaceful solutions to world problems.