Peace Day Philly Newsletter September 18: https://conta.cc/3rrWPYy
Metro Philadelphia- Peace Day Philly works to promote peace with citywide events:
https://metrophiladelphia.com/peace-day-philly-2023/
Center City Fall Newsletter Features Peace Day Philly
The Philadelphia Citizen included Peace Day Philly in their weekend highlights: https://thephiladelphiacitizen.org/things-to-do-philly-weekend/
September 14 Newsletter – What’s happening this weekend for Peace Day Philly 2023: https://conta.cc/3rd7I0p
September 11 Newsletter – Navigating Difficult Conversations Opportunities! https://conta.cc/3sULcK4
August 31 Newsletter – We Want Peace! https://conta.cc/3L3cR1M
August 25 Newsletter – Peace Day resources and events: https://conta.cc/45Lpd6w
August 17 newsletter – Resources for children and youth: https://conta.cc/45ykDbL
August 10 newsletter: Connect with Peace Day Philly – https://conta.cc/3Qz4pLm
August 3rd Newsletter: Mayor Kenney and Peace Day Philly videos: https://conta.cc/3OlkMZh
July 28: Mayor Kenney supports Peace Day Philly! View video HERE
July Newsletter – What is Peace Day Philly?: https://conta.cc/3Y3fypq
July 24: Philadelphia Unity Cup supports Peace Day Philly! Matches on Sept. 23 and Sept. 24 will start with a peace pledge.
July 10: Programs are now being added to the PDP website! Keep checking back for additional programs and more information: www.peacedayphilly.org/events
June 13, 2023:
Read the UN Secretary-General’s 100 Day countdown message on this year’s Peace Day theme, Actions for Peace, HERE
This years global theme, Actions for Peace: 
September 21, 2022
UN Secretary General’s Message for Peace Day
September 15
KYW Spot About Peace Day Philly
September 13
Peace Day Philly Press Release
August 16, 2022
Police Commissioner Outlaw Supports Peace Day Philly!
“Peace and safety are among the highest priorities for the Philadelphia Police Department. The International Day of Peace is a perfect time for police, along with residents and community based organizations, to unite in furtherance of our goal of peace and safety. Each year, far too many are impacted by guns and gun violence. We must continue to stand together and support one another in the effort to end the unconscionable actions of some individuals in our city. The International Day of Peace is a perfect time to show this display of unity.
The overall safety, peace, and well-being of the people we serve is the number-one priority of the Philadelphia Police Department. The International Day of Peace – and Peace Day Philly – serves as an important reminder that our entire community must stand in solidarity against those who seek to cause harm to those who live, work, and play in Philadelphia.”
August 10, 2022
Peace Day Philly is bridging the school district of Philadelphia with a school in Monteverde Costa Rica for Spoken Word Project. Planning is underway to have a school from each country write spoken word and perform it for each other via video on or around Peace Day. Developments coming soon!
July 23, 2022:
Philadelphia’s Mayor Supports Peace Day Philly!
“The last two-plus years have been incredibly challenging for so many communities—at home and around the world. Now more than ever, the City of Philadelphia is proud to stand with Peace Day Philly and all those who work to build and maintain peace and unity,” said Mayor Jim Kenney. “This year’s theme is critical to securing peace in our communities; Racism is one of the world’s greatest scourges and it must end. In Philadelphia, as a proud welcoming city, we stand with our impacted communities and condemn all expressions of racist hate and violence, which have no place here and should not be anywhere in our nation or world. I encourage all Philadelphians to learn more about Peace Day Philly and how they can get involved in this international event that promotes and sustains peace in our communities.”
June 13, 2022:
Read the UN Secretary-General’s 100 Day countdown message on this year’s Peace Day theme: End Racism. Build Peace.
14 programs, most virtual, took place for Peace Day Philly 2021! To view events, CLICK HERE
Watch the 2021 UN student observance of Peace Day: https://bit.ly/2021UNstudentobservance
Metro Covers Peace Day Philly: https://philly.metro.us/peace-day-philly-brings-love-and-justice-to-2021/
Voice of Islam Radio Breakfast Show Interview
Timestamp: 1:01:55-1:10:06
Love Now Media covers Peace Day Philly:
https://lovenowmedia.com/peace-day-prevails-in-philly/
Philadelphia Citizen recommends Peace Day Philly programs: https://thephiladelphiacitizen.org/the-citizen-recommends-peace-week/
July 17, 2022:
“The last two-plus years have been incredibly challenging for so many communities—at home and around the world. Now more than ever, the City of Philadelphia is proud to stand with Peace Day Philly and all those who work to build and maintain peace and unity,” said Mayor Jim Kenney. “This year’s theme is critical to securing peace in our communities; Racism is one of the world’s greatest scourges and it must end. In Philadelphia, as a proud welcoming city, we stand with our impacted communities and condemn all expressions of racist hate and violence, which have no place here and should not be anywhere in our nation or world. I encourage all Philadelphians to learn more about Peace Day Philly and how they can get involved in this international event that promotes and sustains peace in our communities.”
August 25, 2021: Philadelphia’s Mayor Jim Kenney offers a message of support:
“The City of Philadelphia is proud to support Peace Day Philly, which fosters a message of peace and unity that’s needed now more than ever,” said Mayor Jim Kenney. “I encourage all Philadelphians to learn more about this international day and how they can get involved to promote and sustain peace in our communities.”
August 10, 2021: Philadelphia Police Commissioner Outlaw offers message of support: “The overall safety, peace, and well-being of the people we serve is the number-one priority of the Philadelphia Police Department,” said Philadelphia Police Commissioner Danielle Outlaw. “ The International Day of Peace – and particularly Peace Day Philly – serves as an important reminder that our entire community must stand in solidarity against those who seek to cause harm to our beautiful city.”
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September 14, 2020 – KYW News Story: http://bit.ly/KYWStory
September 10, 2020 – Broad Street Review Story: http://bit.ly/BroadstReviewstory
September 7, 2020 – For 2020 Program Information, Click HERE
September 3, 2020 – Mayor Kenney’s quote of support for the Int’l Day of Peace:
“For most of us, 2020 has been fraught with unprecedented challenges to overcome. But the year is also ushering in a period of awakening and transformation. On International Day of Peace, I urge Philadelphians to reflect on what it truly means to be a city of Brotherly Love and Sisterly Affection. We must continue to come together and celebrate our humanity and our diversity. My hope is that this day of positivity fosters peace in our communities.“
September 1, 2020 – Read PDP’s Press Release HERE
August 8, 2020 – This will be the 10th year of the Peace Day Philly initiative! Though programs will all be on-line this year, geography will not be a limitation! Please make a difference by sharing this link with your networks! https://www.peacedayphilly.org/events/. All are FREE thanks to our terrific collaborators and donors.
June 13, 2020 – 100-day countdown to International Day of Peace – Statement from the United Nations Secretary-General: https://www.un.org/en/observances/international-day-peace/messages
“Let us use the International Day of Peace to exchange ideas on how to achieve a global ceasefire, heal our planet and turn the COVID-19 crisis into an opportunity for peace. Let us build back better for more inclusive and peaceful societies.”
March 23, 2020– the UN Secretary-General calls for a global ceasefire in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic: https://news.un.org/en/story/2020/03/1059972.
September 24, 2020: Article in South Philly Review
September 17: Police Activities for Peace Day Philly 2019
September 16: Peace Day Philly 2019 Press Release
September 15: Dr. Jane Goodall’s Message for Peace Day
September 10: Mayoral Proclamation for the International Day of Peace/Peace Day Philly!
Download the proclamation HERE
August 10: The Philadelphia School District will participate in Peace Day Philly 2019 by sharing possible peace activities with schools across the city as well as holding a central event at the administrative building the week of Sept. 16. Chicago public schools have been engaging in Peace Day for a number of years, so we are very excited to have the involvement of Philly’s school district this year! The Parkway NW School for Peace and Justice will organize a neighborhood march, central program and peace haiku during the week of Sept. 16.
August 9: Message of Support from Jim Kenney, Mayor of Philadelphia
On this International Day of Peace, I urge Philadelphians to come together and reflect on what it truly means to be a city of Brotherly Love and Sisterly Affection. With hateful rhetoric coming from Washington and elsewhere, it is crucial–now more than ever–for us all to come together and celebrate the diversity found in our city and throughout the world. My hope is that this day of positivity inspires us to carry the spirit of peace and love with us at all times and showcase what it means to be a welcoming city for all.
2018
Messenger of Peace Dr. June Goodall shares her message for #Peaceday 2018.
September 20 – Mayoral Proclamation for Peace Day (for full text, CLICK HERE)
September 16 – Thoughts in Preparation for Peace Day
September 14 – Police Department shares list of peace activities across districts
Downloadable poster for 2018! Thanks to watercolor artist Sara Steele.
Postcard for 2018
– August 29 – Reflections on the Peacebuilding Process – Part 3
– August 21, 2018 – 2018 Press Release
– August 11 – Reflections On the Peacebuilding Process – Part 2
– July 24 – Reflections On the Peacebuilding Process – Part 1
– July 2018 – Peace Day Philly lists 2018 Schedule! https://www.peacedayphilly.org/events/
– June 2018 – The Pennsylvania State Senate passed a Peace Day Resolution, co-sponsored by Senator Larry Farnese and Senator Andy Dinniman, on June 22. CLICK HERE for the full text. “Resolved, the Senate recognizes September 21 as the International Day of Peace, expresses support for its ideals and principles, and encourage Pennsylvanians to meaningfully engage in this worldwide event.”
– June 2018: Mayor Kenney issued a statement of support for Peace Day: “Peace Day is a terrific opportunity for each of us to reflect on what we can do to build greater peace within ourselves, our communities, and our city. Now more than ever it is important that we celebrate our diversity and come together in a show of peace and love for one another. On Peace Day, I encourage all Philadelphians to be agents of peace by fostering positive engagement that will carry on throughout the year.”
– June 2018 – Peace Day Philly’s Co-Founder Lisa Parker spoke at and facilitated a program at the UN’s NGO Resource Center on “Making the UN International Day of Peace Matter in Your City.“ Part of the Resource Center’s monthly “Chat” series, this program was shared via Facebook Live. Peace Day Philly was discussed as a model for other cities observing Peace Day.
– May 2018 – Peace Day Philly will host a special concert on Peace Day, Sept. 21, featuring musicians from the Philadelphia Orchestra. This concert will benefit refugee services and programs offered by HIAS PA. The concert will take place at 7pm at the Philadelphia Ethical Society. All welcome; suggested donation is $15.
– May 2018 – Michelle Breslauer of the Institute for Economics and Peace will speak as part of Peace Day Philly 2018! The IEP is the world’s leading think tank dedicated to developing metrics to analyze peace and to quantify its economic value. It does this by developing global and national indices, calculating the economic cost of violence, analyzing country level risk and understanding positive peace. Program will take place at the Friends Center on Sept. 19th in the evening. Co-presented by PDP, the United Nations Association of Greater Philadelphia and the Institute for Economics and Peace. FREE.
– May 2018 – PDP Co-Founder Lisa Parker presents to the Philadelphia Rotary Club. We are grateful to the Philadelphia Rotary Foundation for their support of our programs!
– April 2018 – Peace Day Philly is partnering with Rev. David Brown to offer a program that looks at the activism in 1968 in the wake of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King and the priority and nature of effective activism in the current context. This program will take place at the Friends Center on Sept. 17 in the evening. FREE.
– April 2018 – Peace Day Philly 2018 will include a program with yoga, meditation and a discussion about mindfulness within ourselves and in the world. Will take place Sept. 20 at the Philadelphia Ethical Society in the evening. FREE.
– March 2018 – The Interfaith Center will offer a program on Art and Interfaith Justice as part of Peace Day Philly 2018. The program will take place at the Interfaith Center on Sept. 18. More details to come! FREE.
– January 2018 – Peace Day Philly Co-Founder Lisa Parker becomes Co-Chair of the International Day of Peace NGO Committee at the United Nations.
– December 2018 – Peace Day Philly becomes a United Nations affiliated NGO! PDP successfully applied to the United Nations for affiliation with the UN.
2017 Peace Day Philly Press Release
2017 PRESS
– Spruce Foundation Interview, Oct. 17
– Uwishunu, Sept. 18
– Fox 29, Sept. 18
– 6 ABC, Sept. 18
– NBC 10, Sept. 17
– KYW/CBS, Sept. 17
– Intelligencer, August 29
– Bucks County Courier Times, August 28
– PATCH, August 22
– 80-Day Countdown Newsletter of Pathways to Peace, July 7
September 15: Dr. Jane Goodall – Messenger of Peace and Founder of the global youth and environment program Roots and Shoots – shares a Peace Day message:
September 14: UN Secretary’s Message for the Int’l Day of Peace:
September 5: Peace Day State Senate Resolution to be introduced on September 19th. This resolution will be jointly introduced by Senator Larry Farnese and Senator Andy Dinniman. CLICK HERE for the document.
September 4: NEW PDP BLOG on the Power of Peace Day, Local Offerings
September 1: The program Global Migration Crises, Local Solutions (Sept. 19, 5:30pm, Free) will include a number of terrific and experienced speakers (see below). Come out for this Global/Local program!
– Rona Buchalter, Ph.D., Dir. of Refugee Programming & Planning, HIAS-PA
– Sundrop Carter, Exec. Dir., Pennsylvania Immigration and Citizenship Coalition
– Ronald F. Coburn, Amnesty International-Philadelphia Chapter
– Peter Decherney, Professor, University of Pennsylvania
– Helen Gym, Councilwoman-At-Large
– Symbol Lai, Ph.D., Deputy Dir., Office of Immigrant Affairs, City of Philadelphia
– Gretchen Shanfeld, Director of Health and Wellness, Nationalities Service Center
– Madap Sharma from Bethany Christian Services of Greater Delaware Valley
August 31: Thank you Commissioner Ross and the Philadelphia Police Department! We are excited that Districts in different neighborhoods across the city will be taking meaningful action for Peace during PDP 2017! From anti-bullying workshops, to community/police dialogue, peace crafts to police/youth basketball games, the PPD is planning meaningful ways to interact with community Sept. 17 – 23. “It’s such a great opportunity,” said an Officer of the city’s 5th District, “to reconnect with community members, particularly our youth.”
Commissioner Ross’ Statement for PDP 2017:
“Peace and safety are among the highest priorities for the Police Department. The International Day of Peace is a perfect time for police, along with residents and community based organizations, to unite in furtherance of our goal of peace and safety. In 2017, far too many young children and teens have been impacted by guns and gun violence. We must continue to stand together and support one another in the effort to end the unconscionable actions of some individuals in our city. The International Day of Peace is a perfect time to show this display of unity.”
August 27: The Recognizing and Interrupting Racism program scheduled for Sept. 18 is already completely full! As a result, we’re offering a second workshop on October 5. Great thanks to Barbara Simmons of The Peace Center and the American Friends Service Committee for making both of these important programs happen! Register now for 10/5 – this program is filling fast also.
Aug. 23: PDP Newsletter – Peace Day is Less than a Month Away!
August 14: One of a number of activities that will be happening for the collaborative “Global Feast” program on Sept. 23 with the Reading Terminal Market will be a multicultural, collaborative art mural on the theme”Barriers Can Be Broken.” Please bring a piece of fabric to the market 9/23 that connects to your culture or heritage and make it part of the mural! The theme relates to the Market’s uniqueness as a place of civility and diverse interaction.
Says facilitating artist CD Good: “Colors in the fabrics of the world will be added to a black and white market scene. Each person can express their perspective and make a unique contribution. Unity blossoms when there is a willingness to accommodate others and adding pieces for others to respond to and harmonize with.”
“Global Feast” performances on 9/23 will include: from 10 – 11am Venezuelan violinist Luigi Mazzocchi and singer/guitarist Patricio Acevedo from Chile, thanks to Intercultural Journeys; from 12noon – 1pm singer Farah Siraj with Arabic and Spanish songs and, from 3 – 4pm, drummers Marcy Francis and Jan Jefferies sharing music from Africa and Jamaica (thanks to The Artwell).
August 3: We’re delighted that Philly songwriter Ben Arnold will be performing in our Together for Peace Concert on Sept. 21 at the Ethical Society on Rittenhouse Square. Check out his song FREEDOM from his new CD “Lost Keys.”
July 27: Michelle Breslauer from the Institute for Economics and Peace will be part of Peace Day Philly, speaking on the global state of peacefulness. CLICK HERE for program information, and HERE for more about the Institute for Economics and Peace, the world’s leading think tank dedicated to developing metrics to analyze peace and to quantify its economic value.
July 24: Peace Day Philly 2017 Schedule and Event listings now on line! Go to EVENTS for information and mark your calendars now for 9/17 – 9/23!
July 22: Newsletter – Peace Day Is 2 months away!
July 21: Peace Day Philly shares our 2017 video around this year’s global Peace Day theme: “Together for Peace: Respect, Safety and Dignity for All.” Great thanks to The Jost Project (performing in our Kick-Off Concert on Sept. 17 at the Ethical Society) for their version of the classic song “Get Together.”
July 6: Peace Day Philly encourages communities and police districts to do something for Peace Day – see the What Can You Do – Communities PDF for ideas. Many more resources related to Children and youth, environment, the arts, social justice and more can be found in the What Can You Do? section of www.peacedayphilly.org.
July 1: The Penn Museum will again be a participating organization in PDP, this year with a workshop and performance by Syrian-born contemporary artist Issam Kourbaj. This afternoon drop-in workshop with the artist, people of all ages are asked to join in the creation of 2,379 small tin foil and plaster boats to be incorporated into a live-streamed performance of Kourbaj’s notable video piece titled Strike at 5pm.
June 27: We are thrilled that Farah Siraj will be performing at the Peace Day Philly 2017 Concert, September 21 at 7pm, Philadelphia Ethical Society. Farah is a world fusion artist and humanitarian who has performed regularly for PDP. Please see the music video, produced by Peace Day Philly, of the song she wrote for Peace Day – WHAT IF. She has dedicated this song to the refugees of the world.
Farah will also be performing at the Reading terminal Market on Saturday, Sept. 23 from 12-1pm as part of the “Global Feast: Celebrating Philadelphia’s Cosmopolitan Canopy” event.
June 23: Statement from Mayor Jim Kenney for Peace Day Philly
I am committed to cultivating and maintaining a community of peace. All individuals need to feel comfortable and safe in their family, neighborhood, community, city and this begins and ends with peace. Cities are the changemakers in our current climate and if we foster peace within Philadelphia, on all levels, we will be that much closer to obtaining the peace that is so desperately needed across the globe. In a time of division, we must continuously strive for peace for all human beings.
Peace Day provides an important opportunity for cities across the globe to strengthen our communities, celebrate our diversity and take action for a more peaceful world.
June 13: UN Secretary General Shares Peace Day 100-Day Countdown Message:
The International Day of Peace, observed every year on 21 September, offers a moment for the peoples of the world to acknowledge the ties that bind them together, irrespective of their countries of origin…True peace requires building bridges, combating discrimination and standing up for the human rights of all the world’s people…That is why this year’s theme for the International Day of Peace is: “Together for Peace: Respect, Safety and Dignity for All”, focusing in particular on the plight of refugees and migrants throughout the world…Our duty as a human family is to replace fear with kindness.
CLICK HERE for the full message – Download PDF HERE
June 10: The Peace Crane Project is coming to Philly for Peace Day Philly 2017!
Would you like the Project to come to your school/after school program and fold peace cranes with your students? The Peace Crane Project is best suited for elementary and early middle school students. 45 minutes is needed for a class. Dates are Sept. 19 and 20. Email contact@peacedayphilly.org ASAP if you are interested in having the Project come to your school, library or community. Watch the Peace Crane Project Video.
June 1: Peace Day Philly very excited to begin our 7th year with a Kick-Off concert by The Jost Project, an acclaimed Jazz Ensemble that tours internationally. Come out September 17 and help us kick off PDP 2017!
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2016 NEWS
PDP 2016 VIDEO SLIDESHOW
September 21:
Mayor Kenney Speaks at PDP 2016 “Welcoming City” Program – Read His Remarks
WHYY Newsworks: At City Hall: Give Peace a Chance
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s message for the Intl Day of Peace
“This is a time of opportunity to set the world on a better path….become a champion for the Sustainable Development Goals.”
September 20:
Chestnut Hill Local: PDP to encourage actions for peace
Dr. Jane Goodall Shares Her Message for the International Day of Peace
September 17:
Police Department Once Again Supports Engagement In International Day of Peace
From Police Commissioner Ross: “The International Day of Peace is a perfect time for police, residents, and community based organizations to come together for the common goal of peace and safety. Far too many young children and teens have been impacted this year by guns and gun violence. We must come together and support one another in the effort to end the unconscionable actions of some individuals in our city; and the International Day of Peace is a perfect time to do so.”
From PPD’s Community Relations: “It is anticipated that all districts (21 numbered districts), PAL and the officers in the schools from Community Relations will be addressing students and other throughout the week from Monday to Friday (9/19-9/23).”
September 19:
Philadelphia Citizen – Do Something: Gather for Peace Day
September 16:
Philadelphia Events Designed To Bring Us Closer To Peace
UN Student Observance of the Int’l Day of Peace
UN Messenger of Peace Leonardo DiCaprio Speaks to hundreds of students in the General Assembly
“Let today be the day we all become determinant spirits together. I have faith that we can alter the course of our planet’s history before it’s too late, but it’s up to all of us.”
September 15:
Temple News – Promoting Positive Peace In The City
September 14:
Newsworks – Weekend Entertainment Guide
September 10:
Daily Local News – Peace Day Philly: Give Peace A Chance
September 8:
Philly Voice – Celebrate the International Day of Peace in Philly
Sept. 6:
Kosmos Journal – City of Brotherly Love Leads for Peace Day, 9/21
Huffington Post – Peace Day Celebrated Throughout The Nation’s Birthplace
August 30:
Peace Day Philly 2016 Press Release
August 28:
YOGA for PEACE on Sept. 18 will bring together people from across the region in the spirit of Peace Day! This event, which will kick of PDP 2016, will include a drum circle, vinyasa yoga and meditation. FREE. Says Sarah Murphy of Transformative Therapy, Lead Organizer for the event: “For its many followers, the practice of yoga is surely a path to inner peace. On our mats we learn to quiet our minds and to distance ourselves from the contents of our thoughts. As we become more detached from our thoughts we become more peaceful within ourselves, in our relationships, and in our daily activities. And there is no other way to peace in the world; the journey must start with peace in our own hearts. The Bhagavad Gita states it this way: “Yoga is the journey of the self, through the self, to the self.”
August 25:
Mayor Jim Kenney supports Peace Day Philly! “I look forward to continuing the tradition of Peace Day Philly,” said Mayor Jim Kenney. “Events like these that encourage open dialogue and community engagement help us to not only celebrate our differences, but also realize our many similarities.”
2016 PDP Newsletters
– AUGUST NEWSLETTERS
August 30 – Events, Press Release and featured events
August 15 – Less than a month ’til Peace Day – Highlighted programs Interfaith Peace Dialogue, Images and words of Syrian Refugee youth, both on 9/18
– JULY NEWSLETTERS
July 5 – What will you do, Highlighted Program: Yoga for Peace, 9/18
July 15 – Thank you 2016 donors!
– JUNE NEWSLETTER – 100 Day Countdown to #PeaceDay!
– MAY NEWSLETTER – What will YOU do for Peace Day?
– SPECIAL NEWSLETTER – Interfaith Walk for Peace and Reconciliation – May 1
– APRIL 2016 NEWSLETTER – Peace Day Theme Announced!
– FEBRUARY 2016 NEWSLETTER
– JANUARY 2016 NEWSLETTER
August 15:
Empathy Program added to Peace Day Philly 2016. Participants will come away with new insights and steps they can take to increase their empathy skills.” says Peace Educator Christa Tinari. The talk is open to parents, educators, youth-serving professionals, civil service professionals, activists, community leaders, and anyone interested in increasing respect and kindness in our community! Sept. 22, 7pm. More Info HERE.
August 11:
Second Screening of The Same Heart confirmed! September 19, 5-7pm, Arcadia University (Glenside, PA). FREE and open to the public. Shot in eleven countries including the United States, The Same Heart features a global cast that includes Nobel Peace Laureates Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Kailash Satyarthi, Barack Obama, Shirin Ebadi, Wangari Maathai, Mairead Maguire and Nobel economists Joseph Stiglitz and Paul Krugman with ethicist Peter Singer and economist Dean Baker.
“The problem is not the poverty of wealth or resources, it is the poverty of human compassion, of political will, of our commitment to future generations.” Kailash Satyarthi
August 2:
Images and words of Syrian refugee youth joins the growing list of programs for PDP 2016. On Sept. 18th at 5:30pm, Greg Shaheen will share photos done by refugee youth in a Lebanon camp and talk about his work with the children.The program “will shine light on this particular Syrian community’s experience as refugees in Lebanon, and the refugee experience for Syrians as a whole. It is a community who have taken matters into their own hands since they fled war in Syria, and have accomplished a lot despite very difficult circumstances in the host country.” More info HERE.
July 29:
The global site www.internationaldayofpeace.org revitalizes site with PDP’s ‘What Can You Do?” framework!
June 20:
PDP 2016 will include special screening of The Same Heart! The filmmaker, Len Morris, and a poverty expert Mariana Chilton will engage with the audience after the film. Sept. 21, 7-9pm. EVENT DETAILS HERE.
The voices of Nobel Peace Laureates, philosophers and economists join to make the argument for getting serious about eliminating extreme poverty…
“Lifting a billion children from poverty, one transaction at a time.”
June 13, 2016 – The UN Secretary-General issues 100 Day Countdown Message!
“The people of the world have asked us to shine a light on a future of promise and opportunity. Member States have responded with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development… It is an agenda for people, to end poverty in all its forms. An agenda for the planet, our common home. An agenda for shared prosperity, peace and partnership.”
CLICK HERE for full message.
UN Messenger of Peace Dr. Jane Goodall releases 100-Day Countdown Message!
“We believe that every one of us makes a difference every day, and we can chose what kind of difference it will be…It’s only when each and every one of us plays our part; walks our walk that we can hope to attain the Sustainable Development Goals and move toward a world where we live in peace and in harmony with each other and with the wonders of the natural world.”
CLICK HERE for the full message.
2016 Peace Day Theme:
“The Sustainable Development Goals: Building Blocks for Peace”
#SDGs #GlobalGoals
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are integral to achieving peace in our time, as development and peace are interdependent and mutually reinforcing.
“The 17 Sustainable Development Goals are our shared vision of humanity and a social contract between the world’s leaders and the people,” said UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon. “They are a to-do list for people and planet, and a blueprint for success.”
For more information about this year’s global theme, CLICK HERE
2016 PDP Newsletters
– AUGUST NEWSLETTER – Less than a month ’til Peace Day – Highlighted programs Interfaith Peace Dialogue, Images and words of Syrian Refugee youth, both on 9/18.
– JULY NEWSLETTERS
July 5 – What will you do, Highlighted Program: Yoga for Peace, 9/18
July 15 – Thank you 2016 donors!
– JUNE NEWSLETTER – 100 Day Countdown to #PeaceDay!
– MAY NEWSLETTER – What will YOU do for Peace Day?
– SPECIAL NEWSLETTER – Interfaith Walk for Peace and Reconciliation – May 1
– APRIL 2016 NEWSLETTER – Peace Day Theme Announced!
– FEBRUARY 2016 NEWSLETTER
– JANUARY 2016 NEWSLETTER
(See below for Newsletters Jan- December. 2015)
Peace Day Philly thanks the dozens of organizations and many individuals that contributed to 24+ Peace Day Philly 2015 programs and activities! For a summary of PDP 2015 activities, including the 4 featured events, CLICK HERE.
Sept. 18: UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s Peace Day Message:
Sept. 17: PA State Senate Passes Resolution in Support of Intl Day of Peace
2015 PDP NEWSLETTERS – January – December 2015
HOLIDAY NEWSLETTER – DECEMBER 2015
GIVING TUESDAY NEWSLETTER
THANKSGIVING NEWSLETTER
FALL NEWSLETTER
SEPTEMBER 16
SEPTEMBER 15
AUGUST
LATE JULY
JUNE
MAY
MID-APRIL
EARLY APRIL
MARCH
FEBRUARY
JANUARY
August 21:
With one month until the UN International Day of Peace, and only 3 weeks until Peace Day Philly 2015, we are very happy to announce that professional basketball player and Philly Native Wayne Ellington will be joining over 200 students and the public in a Peace Day March and gathering on September 21, 2015 in the Mt. Airy section of Philadelphia. The march will include T-shirts with the names of just some of those who have been lost to violence, as well as positive peace signs and symbols. SEE EVENT LISTING. Wayne’s father, Wayne Ellington, Sr., was tragically shot and killed in November 2014 while driving in the Germantown section of Philadelphia.
August 17:
Featured events for Peace Day Philly 2015 are now on our website! There are other events that will take place as well, and will be added to the website as details are confirmed. Go to www.peacedayphilly.org/events and mark your calendars!
August 8:
Our thanks to John Prendergast, founder of the Enough Project, for his statement of support:
“Peace Day Philly has reverberations around the world. It matters to the people in displaced camps in Darfur that Philadelphia residents care about their plight and want more to be done for peace. It matters to the survivors of the genocide in the former Yugoslavia that people from Philadelphia are standing up for sustainable peace. And it matters to disadvantaged neighborhoods in Philadelphia where violence is too much a part of young people’s experience that Philly is trying to change that status quo. I’m proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with the people of Philadelphia in support of peace in our world and in our own neighborhoods.”
July 21
:
What a great way to hit the 2 month mark to Peace Day – not only did the United Nation’s main twitter account promote the countdown to Peace Day and encourage citizens worldwide to get involved, but we confirmed that the US Director of the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP), Michelle Breslauer, will be coming to Philly for PDP 2015! She’s be presenting twice to student groups and then a public program on Sept. 15 at 6:30pm) The IEP is the world’s leading think tank dedicated to developing metrics to analyse peace and to quantify its economic benefits. They produce the Global Peace Index, US Peace Index and violence containment information that clearly shows that peace is good for humanity and good for business.
June 13, 2015: The 100 Day Countdown to the International Day of Peace!
Read the United Nations Secretary General’s Statement HERE
Read the Mayors for Peace Countdown Statement HERE
UN Messenger of Peace Dr. Jane Goodall’s Countdown Message
April 20, 2015:
PDP launches new Peace Day Philly 2015 video slideshow – CLICK HERE
March 26, 2015 – UN Chooses Peace Day Philly’s Suggestion, Partnerships for Peace, for the Global Peace Day Theme!
PARTNERSHIPS FOR PEACE – DIGNITY FOR ALL
March 4, 2015 – PDP Joins with other organizations to present a FREE International Women’s Day 2015 Program in Philly! We thank Anastasia Shown and other individuals and organizations for their work putting together this program of performance by Anna Crusis Choir and a seasoned panel that will explore the intersection of immigrant rights, women’s rights & children’s rights, as well as the impact of immigration policies and enforcement in the U.S. and abroad.
Download the flyer
Follow the Global Conversation: #IWD2015 #MakeItHappen
February 20, 2015 – World Fusion Artist and PDP Advisory Board member Farah Siraj performs at World Cafe Live: “The highest purpose my music can have is to serve and help others. Music is my medium to inspire people to make positive changes in their lives amd in the lives of others. I am passionate about raising awareness about situations of war and poverty.” View her song for Peace Day HERE
Peace Day Philly 2014 / the International Day of Peace 2014
Peace Day Philly’s public event took place on Sunday, September 21 (the International Day of Peace) at Independence Mall. It included an original song by the Earth Day Kids, reflections on peace by 3 people working for peace in their communities, yoga and meditation, readings of local and global Peace Day messages, a participatory drum circle and observance of the global minute of silence at noon. For more about this event, CLICK HERE. For photos from this and other events, CLICK HERE.
2014 State Senate Resolution
Senator Larry Farnese’s Press Release In Support of Peace Day
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon’s Remarks for the International Day of Peace 2014
About the 2014 UN Theme, “Right of Peoples to Peace”
Peace One Day Founder Acknowledges PDP for 2nd Year – Watch Video HERE.
United Nations International School Choir Sings “Imagine” at the Student observance of the International Day of Peace on Sept. 19, 2014 at the United Nations
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=miwPXs8v2z0
This observance also included remarks and performance by UN Messenger of Peace and renowned cellist Yo Yo Ma. His Silk Road Ensemble, made up of performers and composers from more than 20 countries, was formed under the artistic direction of Ma in 2000. Since then, audiences and critics in over 30 countries throughout Asia, Europe and North America have embraced these artists who are passionate about cross-cultural understanding and innovation.
Yo-Yo Ma performed 3 short pieces that reflected 3 different states of peace: one in nature, one in reflection and one in joy. Ma stated: “Hopefully they will bring us to looking at different ways you can to find the equilibrium in your minds in order to do the work that the Secretary-General is saying that we all should be doing – that we should be doing so passionately.”
PDP 2014 IN THE NEWS
The Independent Newspaper: PDP Invites Engagement In Global Day of Peace
Philly.com: Local Displays of Tranquility During Peace Day Philly
Chestnut Hill Local: Area To Host Peace Day Philly Events
Senator Farnese Urges Peace Day Participation
Phillynow.com: Events Focusing on Peace
Campaign for Non Violence/People’s Climate March Program, Camden, NJ
Philly.com: Phila United Jazz Festival
Footprints of Peace Program Featuring Poet Sonia Sanchez
– U. Penn News: Penn Museum Promotes Peace with Sonia Sanchez
– Philly.com: Artists Unite for a Sunday of Peace
– Phillynow.com: Fun, food and events all focusing on Peace
– Phila. Tribune: Peace Day Philly Features Sonia Sanchez
– Groundswell: Peace Day Philly 2014
– Weekly Press: Poet Sonia Sanchez Leads Star-Studded Footprints of Peace Program
Intercultural Journeys Podcast About their Peace Day Program
https://soundcloud.com/intercultural-journeys/ij-audio-postcard-international-peace-day-2014
September 12 – “What If” – We are honored to share the beautiful song “What If” by world fusion artist Farah Siraj. This song speaks to the need for us all to care about one another – whether across the city or across the world, and to be mindful of the many places around the world living in conflict. We share it as our global message for the International Day of Peace…
September 10 – Mayoral Proclamation Supports Peace Day Philly:
“The citizens of Philadelphia, the region and the world lay claim to the Right to Peace – in their homes, schools, neighborhoods and cities – thus, positive steps toward peace and stronger, more unified communities are vitally important. Peace Day belongs to every Philadelphian and is shared with every fellow human being on earth.”
For the full Proclamation, CLICK HERE
PEACE DAY PHILLY 2014 NEWSLETTERS
Wishes for Peace
Thank You for Being Part of Peace Day Philly 2014!
September 15: Peace Day Philly 2014 Begins
September 12: Peace Day Philly Offers Opportunities for Connection, Learning & Dialogue
September 9: Engaging Children and Youth In Peace Day
September 4: Peace Day Philly 2014 Happens In 10 Days
Early August Newsletter
June/July Newsletter
May Newsletter
April Newsletter
March Newsletter
February Newsletter
January Newsletter
September 9: Peace Day Philly 2014 Press Release
September 4, 2014 – UN Messenger of Peace Jane Goodall shares
a message for Peace Day 2014.
Excerpt: :“Our hearts go out to all the hundreds of thousands who have been killed, wounded or forced to flee from their homes. With the ever widening gap between the “haves” and the “have nots,” there is a huge number of people whose basic needs are not being met, whose voices are not being heard. When they become desperate and sometimes violent, unscrupulous leaders can then exploit them for their own political gains.
Perhaps we cannot influence soldiers to lay down their weapons or governments to ground their missiles; but we can take the opportunity of the International Day of Peace to think about it, talk and make our views known.”
Read JANE’S FULL MESSAGE
August 2014
Global Philadelphia article about Peace Day Philly – CLICK HERE
Early August Newsletter
GLOBAL VIDEO IN DEVELOPMENT FOR PEACE DAY 2014
World fusion artist and humanitarian Farah Siraj wrote a song called “What If?” for Peace Day 2013. We are currently producing a video of the song as a global call to action for Peace Day 2014 to be mindful and to care about people across your city and across the world. We look forward to hearing it globally by September 10, 2014!
Please view Farah’s Message of support for Peace Day Philly, captured during a break from filming the video:
July 2014
Peace Day Philly was honored to Skype with global performer, peace activist and former child soldier Emmanuel Jal. View Jal’s message of support to cities across the world:
For Jal’s WE WANT PEACE music video, CLICK HERE. For Jals’ education charity, Gua Africa, CLICK HERE.
June 2014
U.N. Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon’s Statement – 100 Day Countdown To Peace Day
“Today marks the 100-day countdown to the International Day of Peace, when the United Nations calls on nations, communities and individuals to renounce conflict and promote harmony…The theme for the Day this year acknowledges the 30th anniversary of the General Assembly Declaration on the Right of Peoples to Peace, with its central message that humanity’s sustainable progress and the realization of fundamental rights and freedoms depend on peace and security…As we start the countdown, I urge every peace-loving person to engage with their friends and neighbours, their community organizations and governments. Together, let us demand the right of peoples to peace.”
May 2014
The Shift Network Features Peace Day Philly
Philadelphia: City of Brotherly Love
Build the Peace Org Shares Letter Re: Peace Day in Schools
– March 2014
CLICK HERE FOR LETTER
We are pleased to share this letter from our friends at Chicago Build the Peace, the Chicago initiative to encourage participation in Peace Day. Since 2008, Peace Day activities have been taking place in Chicago public schools. Barbara Byrd Bennett, Chicago Public Schools’ Chief Executive Officer, was a featured speaker at Chicago’s 2013 Peace Day Celebration. At this event, she commended Chicago Build the Peace by saying: “Thank you for all that you have done. Your leadership has elevated the discussion of peace education and spurred action to create cultures of peace across Chicago and within our schools.”
WE HOPE YOU WILL HELP US ENCOURAGE PHILLY AREA SCHOOLS, PUBLIC AND PRIVATE, TO ACTIVELY PARTICIPATE IN PEACE DAY! For Peace Day activity ideas and many links/resources, go to the Children & Youth Page
PEACE DAY PHILLY BECOMES A NON-PROFIT ORG
– January 2014
Peace Day Philly was informed that our application for non-profit tax-exempt status to the IRS had been approved! We are very grateful to the folks at Pepper Hamilton, LLP for helping us make this happen through pro bono guidance and support.
Peace Day Philly was founded in 2011 by concerned citizens and with support from the United Nations Association of Greater Philadelphia, PDP’s Founding Affiliate. Since then, Peace Day Philly has earned the support of Mayor Michael Nutter, the Philadelphia Police Department, the PA State Senate and the commitment of dozens of organizations and groups in our efforts to widen and deepen local participation in the United Nations International Day of Peace, observed on September 21 by hundreds of millions of people across the globe.
We look forward to the next phase of our journey, and continue to invite diverse organizations that do peace-related work every day of the year to use the platform of this globally observed day of peace – September 21 – to educate, inspire, gather, communicate, collaborate and envision.
Farah Siraj and Andreas Arnold Performing at PDP 2013 Community Event
NEWS AND ARTICLES About Peace Day Philly 2013
Nov. 1, 2013: Envision Peace Museum – International Day of Peace
Fall, 2013: Philadelphia Sinfonia Newsletter
September 27, 2013: Philadelphia Neighborhoods, Storytellers Emphasize Importance of Culture During Day of Peace
September 27, 2013: Drexel Triangle Article, “Perspectives on Peace” Exhibition
September 23, 2013: Newsworks, Discussing Gun Violence Through a Theoretical Lens
September 21, 2013: Gun Crisis, Peace Day Philly Events Are Underway
September 20, 2013: Phila. Daily News Feature Listing, Keep the Peace
September 20, 2013: Newsworks, Weekend Events in NW Philly and Beyond
September 20, 2013: Cobbs Creek Neighborhood Assoc., Philly Peace Day/State Senate Resolution
September 16, 2013: Arcadia U., “American Casualties” Street Exhibition
September 12, 2013: Philly In Focus, Stories In Service – A Day of Neighborhood Storytelling
September 11, 2013: Drexel U., Peace Teach In Article
Summer, 2013: Global Philly 2013, Spotlight on Advocacy
Poet Laureate Sonia Sanchez with a Student at PDP 2013 Community Event
Peace Day Message from Secretary- General Ban Ki-Moon – Sept. 21, 2013
The International Day of Peace is a time for reflection – a day when we reiterate our belief in non-violence and call for a global ceasefire. We ask people everywhere to observe a minute of silence, at noon local time, to honour those killed in conflict and the survivors who live with daily trauma and pain.
This year we are highlighting Education for Peace. Education is vital for fostering global citizenship and building peaceful societies… To read the full statement, CLICK HERE
PEACE DAY PHILLY RECOGNIZED AS A ZONE OF PEACE! Sept. 20, 2013
The Religious Leaders Council of Greater Philadelphia has recognized Peace Day Philly a “Zone of Peace!” Peace Day Philly is truly honored to join important, long-standing peacebuilding organizations such as the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations, The ArtWell and the Interfaith Walk for Peace and Reconciliation. To learn more about Zones of Peace and the Religious Leaders Council of Greater Philadelphia, CLICK HERE
To read the Press Release, CLICK HERE
PEACE DAY PHILLY 2013 PRESS RELEASE – Sept. 16, 2013
PHILADELPHIA, PA, September 16, 2013 – For the third consecutive year, the Peace Day Philly initiative will provide a local platform for diverse peace-related activities in observance of the United Nations International Day of Peace. Across Philadelphia and the region, individuals, schools, groups, organizations and communities are encouraged to actively participate in this global day, observed in cities across the world on September 21st. Over 50 planned public activities, mostly free, will be taking place throughout the week of September 16th, especially September 20th and 21st.
Mayor Michael A. Nutter, a supporter the initiative since its founding in 2011, said: “Peace Day Philly is a great opportunity for citizens, organizations and communities to come together in the spirit of unity and to build a more peaceful city. I encourage you to join with the local and world community – by actively being a peace-builder in a way that is meaningful to you.” …. To read the full Release, CLICK HERE
CULTURE OF PEACE FORUM AT THE UN – FRIDAY SEPT. 6th
The UN will host the annual “Culture of Peace” High Level Forum. General public WELCOME – just register & bring ID. President & Deputy Secretary-General will speak followed by panel discussions related to the “Culture of Peace” Declaration and Program of Action. For more about “Culture of Peace” concept, CLICK HERE. To read the press release, CLICK HERE
LIVE STREAM ACCESS 24 HOURS OF PEACE DAY BROADCAST
Access the PEACECODE to place on your computer, smartphone, etc. through Peace One Day, CLICK HERE
The Live stream will include: Peace One Day’s celebration, Peace One Day Documentary, actors for peace, musician interviews and videos, and global forums for peace.
CHECK OUT OUR AUGUST BLOG POST!
August 2013 Blog- Positive Message of Peace Leads Organizations to Peace Day
AUGUST 2013: Global Philly Highlights Peace Day Philly in their “Spotlight on Advocacy”
JULY 8, 2013:
Ohio company is asking its nearly 14,000 employees to join in the observation of Peace Day on Sept. 21
JUNE 13 – 100 DAY COUNTDOWN, INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PEACE – 2013 GLOBAL THEME: “EDUCATION FOR PEACE”
GLOBAL PRESS RELEASE, JUNE 13, 2013
June 13th begins the 100-Day Countdown to the United Nations International Day of Peace (IDP), observed worldwide each year on the 21st of September. This year’s theme “Education for Peace,” is inspired by the U.N. Secretary-General’s “Education First” initiative (www.globaleducationfirst.org) and the growing efforts of educators around the world to integrate Peacebuilding and global engagement into curricula for students of all ages.
To read the full Press Release, CLICK HERE
For the global Peace Day page on the United Nations Website, CLICK HERE
JUNE 13 MESSAGE FROM UNITED NATIONS SECRETARY-GENERAL
“It is not enough to teach children how to read, write and count. Education has to cultivate mutual respect for others and the world in which we live, and help people forge more just, inclusive and peaceful societies…We must support peace education programs, protect students and teachers from conflict, help rebuild schools destroyed by war, and ensure all girls and boys have access to a quality education that includes learning about resolving and preventing conflicts.
Over the next 100 days, let us resolve to learn together how to create a universal culture of peace.”
To read the full statement, CLICK HERE
For PDP’s Blog Related to this year’s global theme, CLICK HERE
JUNE 9 – “Peace Is A Haiku Song” Mural Dedication with Poet Laureate Sonia Sanchez
Peace Day Philly is pleased to be among those organizations represented in this exciting program celebrating Sister Sonia and the completion of this peace mural! For event information, CLICK HERE
MAY 4 – PHILLY POLICE FOR PEACE!
PHILLY POLICE FOR PEACE! This Saturday, May 4th, Police Districts across the city are collaborating to offer various fun activities in a number of Philadelphia Communities. For more information on specific activities and locations, CLICK HERE!
APRIL 20 – Takin’ It To The Streets Peace Party Hosted by MEDIA MUSIC MINISTRY
Saturday, April 20th, 1:00pm – 5:00pm: The NEW Barber’s Hall, 1402 W. Oxford St., Phila., PA 19121
Honoring The Philadelphia Council of Jazz Advocates and featuring WARREN COOPER & THE RICH BUDESA ORGAN TRIO
Proceeds Benefit PHILADELPHIA PEACE INITIATIVES & PEACE DAY PHILLY
For more information, CLICK HERE
March 28 – Institute for Economics and Peace Speaker the Global Peace Index, Pillars of Peace and Measuring Peace
For more event information, please CLICK HERE
“What our work shows is that social capital – community engagement, trust between neighbors, etc. – is one of the strongest associations with peaceful states and cities.” – Institute of Economics and Peace
March 17 – Intercultural Journeys with Special Guest Mandy Patinkin
Peace Day Philly was proud to be one of the Community Partners for the March 17th event with Intercultural Journeys and Special Guest Mandy Patinkin
Philadelphia Daily News Article: CLICK HERE
Newsworks Article: CLICK HERE
WRTI – Brief Audio Interview with Mandy Patinkin About Learning Arabic Songs & Intercultural Understanding Through Music: CLICK HERE
For more information about Intercultural Journeys, an area organization that uses intercultural music to promote greater dialogue and understanding, CLICK HERE