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Montreal, September 23, 2024 — Despite heavy rain, many citizens of Saint-Laurent gathered to celebrate the International Day of Peace at Beaudet Park, also known as the "Park of Peace" since 1992.

In a warm, friendly, and respectful atmosphere, this memorable day was celebrated in the presence of elected officials, including Mayor Alan DeSousa and members of the Borough Council, the MP for Acadie, and representatives of the provincial deputy of Saint-Laurent. Also present were ten representatives from the borough's institutions and community organizations, the Saint-Laurent Intercultural Committee of COSSL (Saint-Laurent Social Organizations Committee), the Bahá'í Community of Montreal, and many distinguished guests.

As in Saint-Laurent, this day is celebrated annually worldwide. The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed this day to strengthen the ideals of peace among all nations and peoples.

Students from Saint-Laurent schools participate in large numbers in this celebration each year. In her speech, filled with love and unity, Gigi Vidal, representing the Saint-Laurent Intercultural Committee and the Bahá'í Community of Montreal, praised the youth:

“Youth, you are our peace builders and ambassadors! Together, you can change the world! You have the power to positively influence your surroundings. Bravo for your touching messages of commitment to peace! We will continue to support you,” she said.

Let’s celebrate our Unity and Diversity. “World peace is not only possible; it is inevitable. The well-being of humanity, its peace and security, can only be achieved if its unity is firmly established.”

Alan DeSousa, for whom the themes of peace, community safety, and a green and sustainable economy are dear, emphasized the importance "of starting with simple actions, such as maintaining good relations with our neighbors, keeping our streets clean, or offering help to an elderly person in our neighborhood."

In tribute to all citizens, he referenced the text inscribed on the park monument on September 22, 1996: “May the long-lasting peaceful coexistence and harmony that animate our community inspire future generations and remain a model of tolerance and friendship for all people of the earth.”

The theme of the 2024 International Day of Peace is "Promoting a Culture of Peace." We invite you to join the United Nations' efforts to build a more just and peaceful world. Let’s celebrate peace by fighting acts of hate, including online hate, and spreading compassion, kindness, and hope to overcome obstacles and build peace together!

All those who contributed to the success of this ceremony were warmly thanked for their commitment and support for promoting peace: the youth of Centre Bon Courage Place Benoît for their dances, the students of École Internationale des Apprenants for their poems and testimonies, the testimony of a young asylum seeker, the Lions Club for their Peace Poster Contest, the Universal Peace Federation for their Peace Road activity, and the musical performance by Jacques Proulx and Marguerite Bilodeau.

 

Bahá'í Center

 

177, av des Pins E
Montréal, QC H2W 1N9
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Phone: 514-849-0753

Click here for map and hours

 

 

Montreal Shrine

 

1548, av des Pins O, Montreal
Phone: 514-568-2104

Click here for map and hours

 

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