'Peace Doves' by artist Peter Walker, in Liverpool Cathedral, Liverpool, England
'Peace Doves' by artist Peter Walker, in Liverpool Cathedral, Liverpool, England (© PAUL ELLIS/AFP via Getty Images)
A dramatic celebration of peace
Today we’re marking the International Day of Peace, first commemorated in 1981, when the United Nations dedicated the day to ‘strengthening the ideals of peace, through observing 24 hours of nonviolence and ceasefire.’ This year’s theme is ‘End racism, build peace.’ As the U.N. says, ‘Achieving true peace entails much more than laying down arms. It requires the building of societies where all members feel that they can flourish. It involves creating a world in which people are treated equally, regardless of their race.’
© PAUL ELLIS/AFP via Getty Images