Today we got reports from actions, big and small, from all over the world. Most of these actions focused on peace and how we can arrive there. Caring for ourselves, caring for each other (especially those most marginalized), and caring for the planet are all a great place to start. And as organizers of these events show us, the next step is to put that caring into action to create change.

What you see in this blog is only a small portion of our total actions. Check out the full actions list to see more.

David M Hazen of Eugene, OR writes: “Explaining and exploring the pros and cons of the drum circles concept and related values of: inclusion of both housed and unhoused in all levels; fun, joy, play, humor and grounding used as primary attractions; a facilitated drum circle to build heart and body grounding; additional concentric circles of witnesses and space-holder/protectors as a safe and co-created container; open and close active drumming sessions with mutual support, trauma healing and self-care skills. By building empathy and restorative justice between groups that are historically in conflict, we hope to open a nonverbal pathway that avoids labels, concepts and arguments, the stuck places preventing a resolution of the housing crisis.”

Norman Ainsworth of Peace is Possible in Nelson Bay, Australia tells us that they had a small peace vigil of 5 people due to covid restrictions and that, “Those who attended were encouraged to continue to campaign for peace.”

Thupten Tendhar of Kingston, RI reports: “The URI Center for Nonviolence and Peace Studies celebrated the International Day of Peace on the University of Rhode Island campus Quad. The event was joined by hundreds of students, as well as faculty, staff, and community members. Information about RI Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Intention Peace were also promoted. The participants were welcomed to draw or write their message of peace and join a mindfulness meditation. There was also a Tibetan traditional peace dance to watch and participate.” Read more about it here: https://rhodycigar.com/2021/09/23/university-gathers-to-celebrate-international-day-of-peace/

Mike Moran of Springfield, MA shares: “Visitors to the second annual Peace Fair (the first was in 2019) sponsored by Greater Springfield Campaign Nonviolence and Nonviolent Springfield on September 26 were welcomed by glorious early fall weather to the grounds of Bethesda Evangelical Lutheran Church in Springfield. They were greeted by representatives of 10 local organizations working for peace, justice, and nonviolence in our community, who addressed the gathering about their work and distributed literature, answered questions, and signed up new members at individual exhibit tables. We hope these deepening interactions will strengthen our complementary and collaborative efforts to make Springfield a nonviolent city. Introducing supporters of our different organizations to each other in one venue should strengthen our ability to collaborate toward our common goal of reducing violence in our community.”

Kristen Rogers-Iversen of Salt Lake City, UT writes: “A tv station showed up and filmed Indian dancers at the Gandhi Birthday Celebration / Peace Award Presentation. We had 60s peace songs, planted a peace tree, and awarded the 2021 Gandhi Peace Award to the Unitarian Church Sanctuary Committee, who gave sanctuary to an immigrant and her children for 3 years. The sanctuary committee and church recognized the humanity of all and demonstrated lovingkindness, an example for many.” See more in their video below.