SERVICE/HUMANITARIAN ACTION | Peace Day Philly

This is about humanity – we are living things we depend on each other. And that’s how we are going to build a global community where we care for each other and make this world a better place. – Former Child Soldier (S. Sudan) and performing artist Emmanuel Jal

Peace Day provides individuals and groups with opportunities to build peace and a sense of our common humanity through volunteering/service and learning about humanitarian and environmental issues affecting communities close to home and across the world.

The UN’s unanimous 2001 UN Resolution of Peace Day expanded the International Day of Peace (first established by the UN in 1981) to not only be one of “commemorating and strengthening the ideals of peace both within and among all nations and peoples” but also one that is a day of “global ceasefire” and a “cessation of hostilities for the duration of the day.” In areas of conflict, this 24-hour window makes possible life saving and life-enhancing humanitarian aid. Aid projects by organizations such as UNICEF, World Health Organization and many others will support to communities around the world on and around Sept. 21.

People around the world are using the global platform of Peace Day to make a difference for humans and the planet. In urban areas, neighborhoods can also call for a local ceasefire – a 24 hour window where communities can consciously work to reduce violence and build peace. Individuals and groups can also volunteer in service of others during Peace Day Philly.

WHAT CAN YOU DO SERVICE/HUMANITARIAN ACTION

–Humanitarian Spotlight – The People of Ukraine–

Give to the following organizations helping families in Ukraine:
USA for UNHCR– “Helps and protects refugees and people displaced by violence, conflict and persecution. As a United Nations Agency, we provide lifesaving essentials including shelter, water, food, safety and protection.”
UNICEF USA – “UNICEF is on the ground in Ukraine and neighboring countries, providing children and families with urgent humanitarian assistance.”
Mercy Corps – “On the ground in Ukraine, Romania, and Poland, providing funding to local organizations that know their community needs best and working to meet urgent humanitarian needs.”
World Central Kitchen – “WCK is first to the front lines, providing meals in response to humanitarian, climate, and community crises.” WCK builds resilience as well as providing relief.

You can find more agencies helping the people of Ukraine HERE

2021 Humanitarian Spotlight: #KeepFamiliesTogether

– Five Things You Should Know About Migrant Families Entering the U.S.

– Join the New Sanctuary Movement
Beyond marching, calling Congress, and taking direct action to end the most recent injustices against immigrant families, how can you or your community stand in solidarity with and offer protection to those targeted by immigration agents in your community?

– What You Can Do Right Now to Help Immigrant Families Separated at the Border

– Organizations mobilizing to help immigrant children separated from their families

What Does Peace Look Like In Your Community – AFSC

OTHER ARTICLES
– Why Did You Become A Humanitarian? Aid Workers Share Their Motivations
– Volunteering and Protest Are Not Mutually Exclusive
– 6 Invaluable Lessons Community Service Teaches Your Child
– Simple Ways To Help The People Next Door…And Around The World

Promoting Peace and Service in Our City – Mayor’s Office

US EXPENDITURES – FOREIGN AID

US Profile – Humanitarian Assistance

CARE – Why Foreign Aid Matters

Video: What Americans Think About Foreign Aid

Highlighted Global Charities

Make your commitment to peace through support of these or other worthy organizations working to transform young lives through aid, advocacy, education, music, and healing.

Mercy Corps – HUMANITARIAN AID

Mercy Corps is a leading global organization powered by the belief that a better world is possible. In disaster, in hardship, in more than 40 countries around the world, Mercy Corps partners to put bold solutions into action. Mercy Corps is responding to the Syrian humanitarian crisis and build, community strength. Learn more HERE.

The Enough Project – ADVOCACY

The Enough Project seeks to build leverage for peace and justice in Africa by helping to create real consequences for the perpetrators and facilitators of genocide and other mass atrocities. Hold a FUNDRAISER for The Enough Project.

Gua Africa – EDUCATION

Founded by former child soldier turned world-renowned rapper Emmanuel Jal, Gua Africa provides education opportunities that can make a fundamental, life-changing difference. It can lift people out of the disadvantages they face and towards a brighter future. Education is also crucial to long-term global development, as it empowers both the individual and the community and underpins many other key areas such as health and protection of the environment.

Get involved by donating to a child’s education – CLICK HERE
Learn more about global hip hop artist and former child soldier Emmanuel Jal – CLICK HERE

Musicians Without Borders – MUSIC & HEALING

Musicians without Borders (MwB), established in 1999, is a global network organization using the power of music for healing and reconciliation in areas torn by war and conflict.

OTHER SERVICE/HUMANITARIAN AID RELATED ORGANIZATIONS:

GLOBAL
The United Nations Foundation

The United Nations – Humanitarian Affairs

UNICEF USA
Supports UNICEF’s work in support of the world’s children, through fundraising, advocacy, and education in the United States.

LOCAL

Global Citizen/MLK365
For the Local Martin Luther King Day of Service website, CLICK HERE

For the National Martin Luther King Day of Service website, CLICK HERE

CitiYear – Greater Philadelphia

Philabundance – fighting hunger in 9 counties across the Philadelphia region

Peace Day Philly – the local initiative for the UN International Day of Peace

FEATURED VIDEO:

The Dalai Lama – We are all part of one human family