GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (GRPS) – During the Grand Rapids Board of Education’s regular meeting in September, the board voted to declare Sept. 14 – 18 as a “Week of Peace Education” and recognize Sept. 21 as the "International Day of Peace."
You can see the full resolution below.
RESOLUTION
FOR INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PEACE SEPTEMBER 21, 2026 WEEK OF PEACE EDUCATION
September 14 – 18, 2026
WHEREAS, a world without war is in the best interest of all humanity; and
WHEREAS, there is worldwide awareness of the desirability of world peace, especially in light of recent conflicts throughout the world; and
WHEREAS, the United Nations has declared September 21, 2026, as the International Day of Peace for nations involved in armed conflict to declare a day of armistice; and
WHEREAS, this annual world event has been observed by both religious and secular organizations in Grand Rapids in this new millennium; and
WHEREAS, it would be fitting for the public schools and other educational institutions to participate; and
WHEREAS, there is a growing awareness of the need to learn the skills of conflict resolution in order to defuse the growth of violence in our communities; and
WHEREAS, with the advent of the new millennium, there is a growing desire to change our communities and schools from a culture of violence to a culture of peace; and
WHEREAS, the goal of a peaceful world and tolerant society is an appropriate concern for all public bodies, without regard to partisan politics; and
WHEREAS, there are strong indications that the morale of scholars’ development of responsible citizenship and interest in school is directly affected by perceptions of hope for their future; and
WHEREAS, there is growing concern among educators regarding their responsibility toward scholars and the issue of world peace and reconciliation; and
WHEREAS, peace is promoted by knowledge of different communities, cultures, countries, and religions, there should be awareness that racial differences should not limit opportunities to learn, excel, live a free life and be respected.
WHEREAS, in 2026 the United Nations promotes eliminating racism to promote interpersonal, national and international peace.
WHEREAS, it would be fitting that a public declaration of a Week of Peace Education would acknowledge public concern and help foster an attitude of hope and expectation;
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that it is the role of the schools to help young people understand the philosophies, goals, and values of other peoples, as well as the need to build workable structures for the peaceful resolution of disputes between nations and among people of different racial, ethnic, and religious backgrounds; and the Grand Rapids Board of Education recognizes September 21, 2026 as the International Day of Peace; This year’s theme is Invest in Peace- For Everyone, Everywhere, Every Day.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Grand Rapids Board of Education does declare the week of September 14 – 18, 2026 as a Week of Peace Education for the purpose of encouraging school activities focused on people living together in peace and harmony in an increasingly smaller global village.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a copy of this resolution be placed on file with the official proceedings of the Board of Education.
