For the International Day of Peace 2025, BC UNESCO organized a provincial activity for associated schools to participate in. Our Be the Change group created designs based upon the 2025 theme of the International Day of Peace: “Act Now for a Peaceful World.” This theme underscores the need for tangible actions to promote peace amid global turbulence and uncertainty. It encourages individuals, communities, and nations to mobilize against violence, discrimination, and inequality, and to actively foster understanding, respect, and non-violence in their daily lives.

The banner is meant to highlight how students can participate in peace and contribute to the wider community. Global peace is achieved when people Think Globally and Act Locally. Positive action at the local levels can ripple out to inspire change globally by serving as examples for others to follow. These small efforts, when shared and repeated, can lead to widespread impact on global issues like climate change, peace, and social justice.

This activity was designed to be a partnership between BC UNESCO schools. Canyon-Lister Elementary sent our completed Peace Banner to Vermilion Forks Elementary School in Princeton, BC. We received a Peace Banner from Trafalgar Elementary School, located in Vancouver, BC.

The International Day of Peace, also known as “Peace Day”, is an annual United Nations-sanctioned observance held every year on September 21. Its purpose is to strengthen the ideals of peace both within and among all nations and peoples. The day calls for 24 hours of global ceasefire and non-violence and invites people worldwide to commemorate peace through education, awareness, and activities promoting understanding and harmony.

Established in 1981, and first observed in September 1982, the day is meant to emphasize

• Global solidarity for peace.
• Raising awareness about ongoing conflicts and the necessity for peaceful solutions.
• Encouraging all nations and individuals to work toward a culture of peace through dialogue, cooperation, and respect for diversity.

• Highlighting issues such as social justice, human rights, equality, and the impact of violence and war on societies.

  The International Day of Peace serves as a global call to end conflict and promote non-violence, even if only for a day. It reminds us that lasting peace requires everyone’s effort, from individuals to nations, through reflection, respect, and collective action.