These 5 Gives Celebrate International Day of Peace

The International Day of Peace was established in 1981 by the United Nations General Assembly, a day devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace, through observing 24 hours of non-violence and cease-fire.. This year the theme is racism. The UN stated ‘achieving true peace entails much more than laying down arms.  It requires the building of societies where all members feel that they can flourish. It involves creating a world in which people are treated equally, regardless of their race’.

This is a quote from this years UN website:

As Secretary-General António Guterres has said:

“Racism continues to poison institutions, social structures, and everyday life in every society. It continues to be a driver of persistent inequality. And it continues to deny people their fundamental human rights. It destabilizes societies, undermines democracies, erodes the legitimacy of governments, and… the linkages between racism and gender inequality are unmistakable.”

These 5 Gives Can Be A Thumbs Up for This Years International Day Of Peace

1. Sign an online petition of your choice that supports issues to end racism. Change.org is a great website to find online petitions or a place where you can start your own petition.
2. Volunteer at organizations that support racial equity and equality.
3. Listen to first hand stories of those who have subjected to racial inequality, effected by racial issues, and fight for racial equity. Learning first hand how people battle racial issues every day is a great way to learn and understand.
4. Ask questions of your friends who are experiencing racism. Gain an understanding of the true issues that affect them. Start the conversation with compassion and understanding.
5. Check in on your own biases. We all have them. stopping racism and racial attitudes start with ourselves.

Use These Quotes To Frame This International Day Of Peace – Racism

No country can claim to be free of racism, racism is a global concern, and tackling it requires a universal effort. –  Durban Declaration and Programme of Action (DDPA)

Racism harms not just the lives of those who endure it but also society as a whole. It deepens mistrust, casting suspicion on all sides and tearing apart the social fabric.

To bring about change, you must not be afraid to take the first step. We will fail when we fail to try. – Rosa Parks

It is not our differences that divide us. It is our inability to recognize, accept, and celebrate those differences. – Audre Lorde

None of us alone can save the nation or the world. But each of us can make a positive difference if we commit ourselves to do so. –  Cornel West

Tolerance, inter-cultural dialogue and respect for diversity are more essential than ever in a world where peoples are becoming more and more closely interconnected. – Kofi Annan

Shares these quotes on social media to continue the conversation of racial justice, equity, and justice. Racism is a human rights issue and we can all work towards treating each each with the greatest of respect.

Looking for more gives that will contribute to our communities? Read these articles to gather more giving ideas that are focused on our communities.