From November 14-21, during YMCA Peace Week, the YMCA of Northeastern Ontario, together with YMCAs across Canada, are celebrating the presence of peace in our communities, and reflecting on the peace building work that happens all year both inside and outside the YMCA.
As we navigate through 2020 and the COVID-19 crisis, YMCA Peace Week takes on new meaning, illustrating how the ongoing work of building peace needs to continue now more than ever, said a press release.
COVID-19 and the urgent calls for action for diversity, social inclusion and equity are challenging us, as individuals, as communities, and as a country, to reconsider where we’ve been and where we want to go.
During YMCA Peace Week, we honour those at the forefront of these peace-building efforts and encourage Canadians to ask themselves how they can bring change to their communities, the press release added.
“It’s important that we work together to create peaceful communities where everyone feels that they belong,” said Elizabeth Aver, YMCA Peace Week 2020 chair and marketing and communications specialist at the YMCA of Northeastern Ontario.
“By celebrating YMCA Peace Week together, we are taking a stand and creating the future we want for our community, country, and world.”
When people act for peace, they build community by promoting a sense of belonging, fostering empathy, and embracing diversity.
“We all have opportunities each day to choose to act for peace,” said Helen Francis, president and CEO for the YMCA of Northeastern Ontario.
“They may be small actions, but they make a big difference and create a ripple effect through our community. By sharing our message of peace, we are able to inspire others to become engaged in peaceful actions.”
A special highlight of this week is the presentation of the YMCA Peace Medal to an individual or group who, without any special resources, demonstrates a commitment to peace through individual contributions made within their local, national, or global community.
This year’s virtual ceremony will honour local community members who have made significant contributions towards peace-building.
The virtual Peace Medal ceremony takes place Nov. 19 at 7:30 a.m. on the YMCA’s Facebook page. There will also be a Yoga for Peace event Nov. 19 at 10:30 a.m., hosted on the same Facebook page.
