Philadelphia Events Designed To Bring Us Closer To Peace
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - They call it "Peace Day," but it's more like a week of events underway now in Philadelphia.
"Peace Day Philly" has grown from three events six years ago, to more than two dozen concerts, discussions and meditation sessions.
Founder Lisa Parker says the local effort, inspired by the United Nations' International Day of Peace September 21, has seen Philadelphians take small steps toward world harmony:
"People have learned new skills. They have been connected with people that they never would have had a chance to interact with. They've become educated in some local and global issues. And in some events, have come together with a sense of shared unity --a shared spirit of peace."
She says global peace can begin in individual neighborhoods:
"In communities, through block parties. Through block captain events. Getting involved with the police department in a really active way, to say 'what is it that will make our community, make our block more peaceful'?"
Next Wednesday, on the Day of Peace, Mayor Kenney will participate in a City Hall ceremony that includes a worldwide minute of silence at noon.
Find all "Peace Day Philly" events here.