Chicago community boldly proclaims peace
By Rocio Ortega, D.O.V.E. Assistant
How do you celebrate and build peace in your life and world? Greenheart staff members recently took a trip down to Daley Plaza in Chicago to volunteer for the 38th Annual Peace Day Celebration. One by one, students, volunteers, and representatives of several ethnic and cultural institutions marched across a stage, boldly proclaiming peace for a country while holding that region’s flag. Colors blurred together in this beautiful procession celebrating our unity in a call to love everywhere from Afghanistan to Zimbabwe. The crowd was filled with the intricate patterns of traditional cultural clothing, individuals carrying “free hugs” signs, and the lit-up eyes of children bursting with curiosity.
Take a look at what some of our Greenheart staff members had to say about this inspiring event.
What was your favorite part about volunteering at the peace day event?
“I enjoyed interacting with the Chicago students who had been learning about peace and different cultures in their schoolwork. All of the students were engaged and excited to learn more about people from diverse backgrounds. Their openness and curiosity was a refreshing perspective!”
– Catherine Clare, Greenheart International
“The flag ceremony is the most touching element of Peace Day for me. It allows me to consciously and intentionally focus on all the areas of the world. Seeing the joy of each flag bearer as they present their flags fills me with appreciation for the human spirit, and all its unique emanations.”
– Andrea Dennis, Greenheart International
“My favorite part of the day was simply being in the presence of so many people from all over the world and the city, wishing good will towards the rest of the world. All ages and all types of people were present and it was great to come together in a very positive and inclusive way.”
– Stephanie Nosek, CCI Greenheart
“My absolute favorite part about the Peace Day Event in Chicago was all of the colors. Seeing all the beautiful colors of the flags, the school uniforms, and even the colors of the diverse people was so inspiring and uplifting. The fact that so many different people, from so many different schools, cities, and even countries, can come together to one place and wish for world peace is truly beautiful.”
– Nicole McCarthy, CCI Greenheart
“My favorite part was seeing the excitement and pride when individuals who presented their country’s flag were given a moments recognition and peace was wished upon that country.”
– Elyse Voyen, Greenheart International
Provide one tangible way of making the world a more peaceful place. How can you practice peace in your daily life?
“Peaceful change must arise from changing the conversations we are having regarding those who are different than we are. I will challenge myself and my community to reconsider how we communicate about others and how those conversations affect the overall dialogue surrounding peace.”
– Catherine Clare, Greenheart International
“I try to live by the motto: the whole world is family. I am currently a board member of Chicago Fair Trade, a coalition creating advocacy, awareness and opportunities for workers around the world who make our clothing, harvest our food, and provide us with many of the basic necessities. Volunteering continues to be a tangible and beneficial way for me to practice my motto and connect our world, which I feel strongly contributes to the possibility of peace in the world.”
– Andrea Dennis, Greenheart International
“I think you can practice peace by cultivating empathy and working towards understanding others, even if you don’t necessarily agree with them. Actually listening to understand instead of simply waiting to share your opinion can make a positive difference.”
– Stephanie Nosek, CCI Greenheart
“I think we can practice peace in our daily lives by controlling our anger and frustration. Instead of honking at the car that blocks the intersection, try to put yourself in that person’s shoes and have some patience. A little patience goes a long way.”
– Nicole McCarthy, CCI Greenheart
“Smile at the people you pass on the street and acknowledge their shared humanity.”
– Elyse Voyen, CCI Greenheart
Take a look at the Peace Day Chicago photo album here and let the faces and smiles of your community members encourage you to build peace for yourself and those around you. Be sure to check out our Greenheart Day of Service guidelines for a chance to be spotlighted on our blog for your amazing contributions to your own community!