Community Celebration-International Day of Peace

                  “MAKE YOUR VOICE  HEARD”

“MAKE  YOUR VOICE HEARD” is the theme of the 2011 International Day of Peace on September 21.   Northfielders will have a chance to bring life to this theme at a  forum at Bridge Square from 4:30 to 6 p.m.   The forum will provide a time for readings, music, and comments from all who attend this ninth annual community celebration.

Wednesday is a busy  day in Northfield.    This format offers an opportunity for persons to come when they can, share their dedication to and concern for  peace,  and  leave when they must.

During the forum  all are invited  to express their vision of peace and  their solidarity with the many around the world who are working  to eliminate  war and the causes of war.    However,  everyone can participate  even if they cannot come to Bridge Square.  One can light a candle, sit in silent meditation or an exchange of  concepts of peace  with friends.  Many will join millions around the world in a period  of silence at  noon  to reflect on  peace.

As stated in the UN declaration that established the day,   the gatherings are devoted to commemorating and strengthening the ideals of peace both within ourselves and  our community  and among all nations and people.   The resolution with its call for a unified day without violence desires to provide hope for those who now  endure war and conlict.   The day has a call for a universal  ceasefire,  a temporary  effort on the path to an enduring peace.

This year marks the thirtieth year of the International Day of Peace, created in 1981 by the UN as it joined the many individual national observances for peace to coincide with  its opening date.  In 2002  the General Assembly officially declared  September 21  as the permanent date.   There continue to be many celebrations ranging from a few hours to a few weeks,  from private gatherings to public forums and concerts where  hundreds of thousands participate.

The numbers of  persons observing  this day  increases greatly each year as ways of communicating worldwide   stimulate awareness of the day and of the goals.   Support of young people for this day grows each year, increasing  the strength of the message  in many parts of  the world.

Please join neighbors and friends in Bridge Square  September 21 to strengthen the work of peace in Northfield.
Bring  a poster, your reflections on peace,  a song,  a chair, friends.

Make your voice heard !

In case of rain:  Community Room,  Northfield Public Library,  210 Washington Street

For more information , suggestions,  or offers to help with any details  contact Judith Stoutland    judithstoutland@gmail.com   507 645 7845