Plaça de la Vila in Sant Quirze del Vallès hosted the commemoration of the International Day of Peace on September 21st. The event began with a minute of silence and the reading of a manifesto open to citizens, as part of the initial initiatives of the School of Peace.
The manifesto, read by citizen Glòria Llorenç and Assumpció Montserrat, a member of Ateneu del Món and recipient of the Dona 2023 Award, highlighted the impact of armed conflicts and advocated for peace, human rights, justice, and universal dignity. It was emphasized that "peace is not just the absence of war: it is defending life, human rights, justice, and the dignity of all people," calling for non-indifference to violence with slogans like "Enough wars. Enough deaths. Enough impunity."
This day marks the start of activities for the School of Peace, a municipal project driven by the Mesa de Cooperació to foster a culture of peace transversally. Throughout the academic year, the project will involve educational centers, organizations, and citizens, including the perspective of the Consell d’Infants (Children's Council).
The initiative aims to promote reflection and dialogue on peace, as well as develop tools for peaceful conflict resolution, solidarity, and respect for human rights within both the educational sphere and the wider community.
Concurrently, a photocall was set up in front of the Casa de la Vila for citizens to join the Call for Peace by sharing photos on social media with the hashtag #DiaInternacionaldelaPau. In the afternoon, the photocall will move to the Biblioteca Marcel Ayats, where young people from Canya Jove will offer badges with the peace logo.
The International Day of Peace, celebrated annually on September 21st, carries the United Nations theme this year: "Invest in peace, for everyone, everywhere, every day," underscoring the importance of daily actions and community involvement in peacebuilding.
