Every year, on September 21, the world celebrates the International Day of Peace. Established by the United Nations in 1981, Peace Day provides a globally shared date for all humanity to commit to peace above all differences and to build a culture of peace. Inspired by this initiative, the Kindred Credit Union Centre for Peace Advancement at Conrad Grebel University College invites students, staff, and faculty at the University of Waterloo to attend peace events from September 16 to 22.
This is now the third year that the Center for Peace Advancement has hosted a community calendar to encourage organizations and individuals in Waterloo region to work for peace in ways they find most meaningful. This year people on campus and beyond have stepped up to organize 14 events that explore and contribute to peace from diverse perspectives. Activities include a genealogy exhibit, the HeForShe Campus Rally and President’s Lecture, the Indigenous Speakers Series with Jesse Thistle, a panel on career paths in peacebuilding, a lunch and learn on humanitarian shelters, a book launch, two separate fundraising walks, Renison’s One Sky Festival, and tours of Mennonite Central Committee.
On the afternoon of Saturday, September 21, Grebel will celebrate the fifth Anniversary of the Kindred Credit Union Centre for Peace Advancement. Current and past participants and partners of the Centre will be showcasing their efforts, and a sampling of international foods will be served. This will be a time to remember the impacts from the past five years, reconnect with individuals and organizations that have collectively shaped the Centre for Peace Advancement’s work, and re-imagine what it means to advance peace in Waterloo region and beyond.
Details for all events can be found at https://uwaterloo.ca/peace-week/