When is International Day of Peace?
September 21st is the International Day of Peace.
What is International Day of Peace?
War is hell, and we’re sick of it. That’s why we celebrate International Day of Peace. As our news cycle bulges with tales of violence, International Day of Peace reminds us to fight hostility by cultivating harmony wherever we are.
It’s a day to resist the battles that destroy families and nations. The last battle fought on American soil happened during WWII, but we still see violent riots, attacks by terrorists, and rampant domestic abuse. The United Nations created International Day of Peace in 1981 to promote peace within and among nations.
As Mother Teresa said, “If you want to change the world, go home and love your family.” Most of us have little power to end the horror of war, but we can call ceasefires in our own homes. We can call for reconciliation in our neighborhoods. We can call legislators to search for creative solutions to global conflicts. This day renews our commitment to spread peace.
Facts about International Day of Peace!
- During the military conflicts of the 20th century, around 191 million people lost their lives.
- In a given year, more than 10 million men and women experience physical abuse by an intimate partner.
- Nonviolent resistance campaigns elicit about 11 times more participants than the average armed uprising, and they succeed twice as often as violent rebellion. People want peace!
How to celebrate International Day of Peace:
- Observe a minute of silence at noon in your time zone. This custom began in 1984, and it results in a “Peace Wave” that passes around the world as communities, nations, and individuals pray and hope for peace.
- Gather your friends and family for a peace meal. Have everyone bring dishes from other countries to celebrate those cultures and enjoy the diversity of human life.
- Make peace within your own home. Whether it’s your spouse, your parents, your kids, or just your roommate, reconciliation begins with the person closest to you.
What’s the hashtag for International Day of Peace?
The hashtag for International Day of Peace is #PeaceDay.