1. Peace Displays at Olean Public Library: posters, books and more. From Sept. 1- Oct. 2.
2. Wednesday, September 18: “We Do Peace.”
Join EMVi members Darlene Goetzman & Mike Blumenthal for a potluck @ 5:30 to explore the ways we already create peace. And then together let’s name one small or big (additional) thing that each of us will do the following week during Campaign Nonviolence (Sept. 21- Oct. 2). Bring your ideas and a dish to pass, and we’ll supply beverages and lots of welcomes! RSVP by Monday, Sept. 16 to Darlene Goetzman (darlene@blumenthals.com)
3. Presentation on “Making Peace in a Society at War” at Olean Public Library
OLEAN — Love in Action Cattaraugus County is hosting a special presentation titled Making Peace in a Society at War at 7 p.m. Sept. 24 at the Olean Public Library, 134 N. 2nd St. This event is free, open to the public, and will include light refreshments. Reservations are required; please call (716) 372-0200 or text (716) 379-3351 to reserve your spot.
As conflicts rage across the globe, including in Ukraine and the Middle East, the question of how to foster peace feels more urgent than ever. In this thought-provoking presentation, Dr. Jean-François Godet-Calogeras will explore the historical context of Europe eight hundred years ago and examine how Francis of Assisi and his companions actively worked to bring peace in their time.
4. Olean Public Library to Host Film Screening on Unity and Division
OLEAN — Love in Action Cattaraugus County is pleased to invite the community to a special screening of the film Divided We Fall: Unity Without Tragedy at 7 p.m., Oct. 2 at the Olean Public Library, 134 N. 2nd St. The event is free and open to the public, with light refreshments provided. Reservations are required; call (716) 372-0200 or text (716) 379-3351 to secure your spot.
In a time marked by increasing division, Divided We Fall brings together people from diverse backgrounds to explore what it truly means to be American and how we can bridge the divides that hold us back. The film, running approximately one hour, captures the voices of ordinary Americans who are hungry for connection and unity. The film originally ran on PBS in 2020. Learn more about the film here: https://www.dividedwefalltv.org/.
Following the screening, attendees are invited to participate in a brief, low-key discussion to share their reflections and insights on the themes of the film.
This screening is just one of several local events Campaign Nonviolence Action Days, which runs from Sept. 21 to Oct. 2. This international campaign aims to build a culture of peace free from war, poverty, racism, and environmental destruction. Learn more about the campaign here: https://paceebene.org/campaign-nonviolence.
About Love in Action Cattaraugus County
Love in Action Cattaraugus County is a community group dedicated to promoting nonviolence, education, and community building in the greater Olean area. Through events, workshops, and outreach, the group seeks to foster a culture of peace and understanding.
Learn more at https://www.facebook.com/loveinactioncattarauguscounty.