Featured image: Taken from Boston.com
The United Nations General Assembly established International Peace Day in 1981 to observe the ideals of peace among nations and individuals. Since 2001, every Sept. 21 has been recognized as a “period of non-violence and cease-fire.”
Symbols of the Olympic Movement
10 years ago, Liberian peace activist, humanitarian, social worker, women’s rights advocate and 2011 Nobel Peace Laureate, Leymah Gbowee had the honor of being selected as one of the Olympic flag bearers at the London 2012 Games.
At every summer game, the Olympic flag is raised at the opening ceremony. The white flag shows the five interlocked Olympic rings reflecting both the Olympic Movement and the union of the five continents meeting at the games.
The International Olympic Committee selects eight people at each game to carry the Olympic flag into the stadium. As a trailblazer, Gbowee is a proud example of Liberia’s peace efforts. She made a great flag bearing candidate.
Peace in Liberia
Madam Gbowee played an integral role in leading non-violent peace efforts in Liberia that helped end the second civil war. She established the Gbowee Peace Foundation Africa-USA in 2012 and continues to be a voice for reconciliation, empowerment, and peace.
Today, we celebrate International Peace Day with nearly two decades of peace in Liberia.
To watch the 2012 Olympic flag moment, click here.