Peace Day 2023
Wednesday 21st September was the UN's International Day of Peace.
Andover Trees United held another Peace Day procession in our community planted woodland, Harmony Woods. Since 2018 we have celebrated this day alongside Jane Goodall’s Roots & Shoots and 100s of other individuals and organisations around the world.
Dr Jane Goodall is a UN ambassador for peace and world-leading primatologist who founded the global youth organisation, Roots & Shoots. Every year, Roots & Shoots invite youth organisations from around the world to take part in a UN Peace Day Procession on the 21st September.
The International Day of Peace (“World Peace Day”) is observed globally each year on 21 September. Established in 1981, the UN General Assembly has declared this as a day devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace and this year invites us, through the theme “Actions for Peace: Our Ambition for the #GlobalGoals”, to join their efforts to work towards a world of non-violence and struggle. A world where compassion and empathy overcome suspicion and hatred. A world that we can truly be proud of.
Andover Trees United’s Peace Day Procession was attended by five local schools: Portway Junior School, Endeavour Primary School, Knights Enham Junior School, Icknield School and Harrow Way Secondary School. In all, 34 children and 25 of their teachers and parents joined the procession. Our thanks also go to the two other schools who had hoped to join us but for one reason or another on the day made it impossible to attend (Appleshaw St Peter’s and Andover C of E).
Also in attendance was The Worshipful Mayor of Test Valley, Councillor Philip Lashbrook, and the Mayoress. Representatives from long term ATU supporters, Stannah, were also in attendance. Around 20 volunteers of all ages, from the ATU community and representatives from local businesses via the Natural Business Network, helped make the morning run smoothly and ensured that the event was very special.
There were many homemade cakes to be eaten, and lots of delicious fresh fruit. The sun was shining and the autumn colours were bright against the blue sky, as the 2 giant white doves made their way through the woodland. The procession began at 10am and was followed by the planting of a commemorative oak tree by The Worshipful Mayor of Test Valley, who also gave a heartwarming speech on the importance of peace in the world today. The commemorative oak tree was also decorated in painted wood shards (made by the school children). Peace doves were then decorated with messages of peace and hung from the trees, and refreshments were enjoyed.
