As the world observes the United Nations’ annual International Day of Peace this Friday, September 21st, Rotarians are calling on everyone to play their part.
For over a hundred years, Rotary in Great Britain & Ireland (RIBI), and Rotary across the world, has been campaigning for and promoting peace. This Friday marks Peace One Day, a worldwide day dedicated to conflict resolution, alleviating poverty and many other positive humanitarian focused actions. Rotarians across the country, and rest of the world, are supporting this great cause.
Peace forms the centre of Rotarian actions. From taking underprivileged children on great days out, helping improve the appearance of a local neighbourhood to eradicating disease or helping to resolve conflict, Rotarians are involved at grassroots level to the worldwide stage. This is reinforced by this year’s Rotary theme of Peace Through Service, unveiled by RI President Sakuji Tanaka.
RIBI President John Minhinick says peace is part of being a Rotarian: “Whether helping people in local communities or supporting students to undertake peace studies at one of the many Rotary peace centres across the world, including the University of Bradford, Rotarians are always working towards peace.
“This international day of peace is a great way for everyone to do a little and achieve a lot. We could help encourage war-torn areas to hold a ceasefire, allowing aid and health agencies to access to help those caught in the cross-fire. There are many ways for everyone and anyone to help communities both at home and overseas. I have heard that in Bournemouth, the Rotary Club of Westbourne is holding a peace day event with a drumming circle, Buddhist monks and an olive tree to tie messages of peace and hope to.
“We are also joining in the major social media campaign on Facebook and Twitter which has the potential to reach millions of people across the world.”
Find out how you can help communities at home and overseas by contacting your local Rotary club or visit our volunteering page.
Follow RIBI on Facebook and track on Twitter.
