What do you think peace means? We often think of peace as a state in which there are no wars between nations or civil wars within countries. However, peace does not have to begin in such grand or significant places. It can also start with people communicating with one another and showing mutual respect. With this in mind, I would like to talk about the peace movement led by young people who long for peace, which took place in Washington, D.C., on May 30.

▎ Peace Created by Young People Themselves

Washington, D.C. is a city that symbolizes politics and diplomacy. In this significant location, HWPL and the Washington, D.C. branch of IPYG hosted the 1st Washington, D.C. Youth Peace Summit.  Approximately 400 people attended the event, including young people, citizens, and leaders in human rights and culture. 

This event was part of the Youth Empowerment for Peacebuilding (YEPW) initiative, which IPYG has been promoting around the world. The term “youth peacebuilding” carries an important meaning: young people are not merely learners of peace but active participants who create peace themselves. Young people are often among those who suffer the greatest losses in war. However, it is leaders who make the decisions that lead to war. This shows that peace is not something that someone else can create on our behalf; rather, it is something that all of us must work together to build.

The starting point of this summit was to raise awareness of peace within local communities and establish a sustainable youth peace network. Muriel Bowser, the Mayor of Washington, D.C., stated, “On behalf of more than 700,000 D.C. residents, I sincerely thank you for your dedication to peace, youth leadership, and community unity throughout Washington, D.C.”

Azhar Haque, the representative of the Washington, D.C. branch of the International Youth Human Rights Association, stated, “Peace begins with understanding, dignity, and respect for human rights. Millions of young people around the world face enormous challenges, including division, violence, discrimination, bullying, and hatred. At the same time, they also have a strong desire to create change. The dignity of human rights is the very foundation of peace.”

Adeola Shonubi Kikelomo, the 1st Princess of Miss Africa USA, stated, “Many decisions that shape our future are being made without the voices of young people. Do not let the world simply pass by your communities. Instead, decide to become the driving force behind change. Then, we will rise together. Young people must take meaningful action and actively participate in creating change.”

Asha-Gaye Cowell, Co-Chair of the Caribbean Development Bank’s Future Leaders Network and a representative of Jamaica, stated, “I have witnessed the incredible power young people can demonstrate when they are given the opportunity to take the lead. People often say that young people are the future, but they are also the present. Young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are active agents of change who are shaping today.”

▎ People United Through Music and Culture

Following the welcoming remarks and congratulatory speeches, a variety of performances filled the stage, creating an atmosphere that was not merely formal but truly worthy of a festival. Traditional Latin American dances, classical music, hip-hop, and songs and performances by young people came together, showcasing the harmony of diverse cultures. The event venue also featured interactive booths introducing peace activities, allowing participants to experience and engage with messages of peace firsthand.

This event highlighted the strong collaboration among various local communities, made possible by the dedication of YEPW members. While preparing for the event, they considered how to proclaim peace in Washington, D.C., and took the initiative to engage local organizations and performance groups, bringing them together to participate in the event.

IPYG representative stated, “This event reaffirmed that cultural and artistic exchanges can serve as a powerful catalyst for connecting people and building peace. We will continue to collaborate with local organizations and take the lead in fostering a culture of peace driven by young people.” The Washington, D.C. Youth Peace Festival is also intended to become an annual event, continuing beyond this year’s gathering.

Reference : https://vo.la/tIjWFuC