At Pure Water for the World, we often talk about the right all people have to safe drinking water. We discuss basic health, and the right to safe and reliable sanitation options. And we are passionate about people having the right to accessible and correct hygiene information.
But this International Day of Peace, we encourage you to consider a different right: the right of all peoples to peace. It’s the theme of this year’s Peace Day – and it’s something that seems so basic, so intuitive, that it can be easily forgotten.
The United Nations established Sept. 21 as the International Day of Peace in 1981 to remind us all of the ideals of peace, both within and among all nations. In 2001, the U.N. also established Sept. 21 as an annual day of non-violence and ceasefire.
This year marks the 30th anniversary of the United Nations General Assembly Declaration on the Right of Peoples to Peace. On Sunday, Sept. 21, 2014, you can join millions of individuals around the world as they participate in activities, events, concerts and festivals to celebrate the International Day of Peace and recognize that the promotion of peace is vital for the fulfillment of all human rights. And as Pure Water has reported, water and peace are often connected.
Anyone, anywhere can celebrate Peace Day. It can be as simple as lighting a candle at noon, sitting in silent meditation, or doing a good deed for someone you don’t know.
Looking for an easy way to get involved? Explore the campaign, “I have aright to peace” and “We all have a right to peace.” Follow @PeaceDay on Twitter and “like” the International Day of Peace page on Facebook for updates, ideas and links to Peace Day events and activities.
Let’s keep the conversation going, and the days of peace flowing beyond September 21.
Share your ideas with us. What are your thoughts on the right for all people to have peace?