Monday 3 October 2022 (St John’s, Antigua) …On Sunday 2 October, the International Day of Non-Violence, the Rotaract Club of Antigua held a peace walk in recognition of the International Day of Peace.
One of the focuses of Rotary International is the promotion of peace. As a humanitarian organization, peace is a cornerstone of our mission. We believe that when people work to create peace in their communities, these changes can create a global effect. Today, over 70 million people are displaced as a result of conflict, violence, persecution and human rights violations; most of whom are children.
As part of Rotaract District 7030’s mission, which includes the promotion of peace and peacebuilding, the 70+ clubs were tasked with executing a peace walk, which was originally scheduled to be on September 18, 2022, the International Day of Peace. However, due to bad weather caused by Tropical Storm Fiona, the Rotaract Club of Antigua was forced to postpone until Sunday 2nd October.
The peace walk, organized by the club’s International Service Committee, was well represented by various non-profit organizations. Assistant Governor Evangeline Allen delivered the message of peace from Debbie Roopchand, District 7030 Peacebuilding Chair. The Royal Antigua and Barbuda Police Force was also present and Superintendent Elson Qwammie urged citizens to come together to seek solutions to make peace within our society. Also, the founder of the Honeybee Theater and the activist, Mrs. Zahra Airall and her theater group performed a short dramatic presentation.
The president of Rotaract, Dr. Namadi Belle, in her message, charged the participants, “…as citizens to not only try to embrace the virtues of peace, but also to demonstrate them every day at home, school, church and workplace.” President Belle also mentioned “In fact, the actions of each of us should be guided and informed by the principles of peace, namely respect, tolerance, sensitivity and justice”.
Recent cases of violence and domestic issues in our communities signal that we need to re-examine and re-evaluate the way we interact and relate to our husbands and wives. It should also be noted that socio-economic factors and drug-related activities play a role and therefore contribute to the violent events of the day.
However, the notion of our approach to problem solving and conflict resolution clearly suggests that an immediate reset of our value system is critical if we as Antiguans and Barbudans aspire to live as a peaceful nation. However, by practicing peace, we will lay the foundations and build the blocks for a safe, secure and peaceful society.
In conclusion, a monetary donation was made to the Women Against Rape Organization (Lufta), which was handed over to the founder, Mrs. Alexandrina Wong. Before her admission, Ms Wong ordered the gathering to be alert and ‘say something if they Look SOMETHING‘.
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