What is International Peace Day?
The International Day of Peace, or as it is often titled, World Peace Day occurs on September 21st every year. This day is officially dedicated to world peace, and the elimination of war and violence. The day was established in 1981 by the United Nations as a way to bring world attention to the constant ongoing state of violent conflict and humanitarian abuses that occur every day and marks the opening session of the UN General Assembly.
Why should parents and teachers carry out activities for International Peace Day?
If we don’t teach our children that peace is better than war and violence, we are doomed to a world in which hate and bigotry prevail. Chris Hedges in his article What Every Person Should Know About War gives the following statistics:
- Out of the last 3400 years, the world has been at peace for 268 years.
- In the 20th century alone, 108 million people have been killed in war. He defines war as any conflict killing more than 1000 people.
- Over 30 wars are going on right now.
On the face of it it looks helpless…
Education and International Peace Day
Often it feels like only a few voices cry out for peace. But education can make a difference. Education can increase the number of voices crying for peace. We can teach children to be global citizens rather than insular nationalists by exposing them to peoples and cultures from around the world. We can teach children about past wars, and how they did not solve the problems they were fought to solve. We can teach children to be empathetic to the victims of violence and war.
Resources and Activities for International Peace Day
Here is list of activities for teachers and parents.
- On September 21st at noon hold a moment of silence and pray for peace.
- In a group, sing songs about peace. Check out TPNow’s listing of songs for peace and justice.
- Make posters promoting peace and hang them in public places.
- Hold an assembly and take a Peace Pledge. Either the one here or one of your own composition.
- Invite a speaker to come and talk about how to be more peaceful or about the problems of war and violence.
- Mark the occasion with a large group activity such as making giant peace cranes or doves, peace lanterns or lighting peace candles.
- Hold a march or vigil in a public place or place flowers at a war memorial.
- Watch anti-war films or videos promoting peace. Here is a listing.
- Read books about peace. Hold a book discussion. Here is a list of recommended books.
- Select quotes about peace and bring them to life through the arts. Hold an exhibition of the works.
- Write a letter to your congressman or senator or local newspaper asking them to support peaceful efforts to end global combat.
- Attend a peace rally or organize one.
Other TPNow Recommended Online International Peace Day Resources
10 Ideas for International Peace Day
20 (or more) Things to Do on International Peace Day
International Peace Day ELA Activities for upper elementary, middle school, & high school
PeaceCastTV Special Podcast on International Peace Day
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