International Day of Peace
Since the 1982 ringing of the Peace Bell at the United Nations HQ in New York, the International Day of Peace has been a day to both build and celebrate peace.
Align your brand with global peace initiatives through community gatherings, educational content, and inclusive dialogue campaigns that resonate with socially conscious audiences.
- Host a 'Global Feast for Peace' event featuring diverse cuisines and cross-cultural conversations
- Create educational resources for schools and families on conflict resolution and peace-building
- Launch a social media 'Peace Wave' campaign encouraging users to share moments of silence and unity at noon
- Partner with NGOs to amplify peace-themed messaging and community service initiatives
Since 1982, the International Day of Peace has begun with the ringing of the Peace Bell at the United Nations headquarters, New York. The day got its start when the UN General Assembly established it with a unanimous resolution, devoting the day to “commemorating and strengthening the ideals of peace both within and among all nations and peoples”. Twenty years later, in 2011, the date was fixed on September 21 as a period of non-violence and cease-fire.
Each year, the International Day of Peace offers a different theme around which people can carry on conversations and aim to build relationships that overcome conflict. Some of the themes in the past have included:
In addition to the annual changing themes, the day also offers a universal statement that can be used as a greeting to begin or end peace gatherings. With this constant theme, “May Peace Prevail on Earth”, the International Day of Peace offers an opportunity for diverse people of all ages to gather together around the common desire for peace.
Engage in a Moment of Silence
One of the initiatives of the International Day of Peace is the Global Moment of Silence, also known as the Global Moment of Peace. In each time zone, at 12 noon, people can participate in one minute of silence wherever they are. Then, all throughout the day, at the top of each hour, someone in the world is participating in what some people refer to as The Peace Wave. It’s a simple and beautiful way to show appreciation for the peace that comes through a moment of silence.
Host or Attend a Global Feast for Peace
One activity that is recommended for celebrating the International Day of Peace is to host or join in on a Global Feast for Peace. This is a simple concept of inviting a variety of people, ideally from different backgrounds, cultures or faiths, to participate in a meal where important discussions about peace and common ground can be had. A meal provides a perfect backdrop for people to foster peace through a dialogue with listening, understanding and compassion.
Access Tools and Resources for Peace Gatherings
The International Day of Peace offers a myriad of opportunities to observe, celebrate and educate on the theme of peace. Teachers, parents, community leaders and others might want to take advantage of resources available on the United Nations Peace Day website or on the Roots and Shoots page.
Practice Peace in the Home
Parents, do you reward your children when they share toys and help each other? Learning how to solve disputes without aggression is a great way to enjoy the International Day of Peace. A sponsored toddler group can raise funds for peace charities and tire out the little ones at the same time. Of course, peace needs building and hard work, not just celebrating. Make each and every day a day of peace as everyone works toward harmony at home, school, work, in the local community and throughout the world.