In 1999, British actor and filmmaker Jeremy Gilley had the idea of starting a worldwide phenomenon known as “Peace One Day”. In 2001, two years after the organization was founded, the Costa Rican and British representatives of the UN supported an act to make the 21 September every year the International Day of Peace.  Today, after over a decade of struggling to gain awareness for the event, it is in its 11th year. Societies all over the world acknowledged the day by taking part in dances, musical concerts and an initiative called “One Day One Goal” which encourages different communities to play football together to promote peace.

In the UK on the evening of the 21 September, a Peace One Day concert was held at the 02 arena by huge artists like Annie Lennox, Newton Faulkner, Eliza Doolittle and Razorlight. On top of this Peace One Day has had the support of many different stars from across the world. Jude Law spoke at the concert joining ranks of celebrities who have been eager to be involved in this life changing project. The concert also marked the start of a 365 day countdown to a Global Truce on Peace Day 2012.

At Canterbury College on 21 September, students celebrated Peace One Day with a number of different events. There was a screening of the “Day After Peace” film made by POD productions in the main street of the college, student union representatives handed out Peace One Day badges to students on site and in Canterbury High Street. Students were also photographed in groups presenting the peace sign to show that Canterbury College is fully aware and supportive of the cause and there was a handprint peace sign poster, which all students could take part in. To find out more about the day and any events taking place log onto www.peaceoneday.org.

By Elizabeth Woolvett
BTEC NATIONAL DIPLOMA Media Student
Canterbury College