A SCHOOL in Bromsgrove has became the recipient of the UK’s 100th Peace Pole following a successful campaign introduced by Heart of England Rotary.
The Peace Poles form part of a drive by Rotary to tackle the underlying causes of conflict, including poverty, discrimination, lack of access to education, and unequal distribution of resources.
They have been planted in schools and community gardens throughout the East and West Midlands and Southern Ireland, including two universities.
Pupils at South Bromsgrove High School gathered to witness the pole planting ceremony in their peace garden on Tuesday (June 25).
Headteacher, Chris Smith, said: “We are incredibly proud to have been nominated to be the recipient of the Peace Pole.
“The Pole will act as a visual reminder to the whole school community of the need to promote peace and to treat others with respect.
“Our students realise in the current climate of conflict and unrest across the world, this an essential part of being a good global citizen.”
Made from recyclable materials, the Poles give a powerful message ‘May Peace Prevail on Earth,’ which can be conveyed in eight languages, reflecting the region they are planted in. Braille can also be included.
The idea originated in Japan in the wake of the destruction of the second World War and the atomic bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
It was adopted by the World Peace Society Charity and became accepted by the UN as a one of the accepted International Symbols of Peace.
Amal Rampal, district governor for Heart of England Rotary, said: “Peace is a cornerstone of Rotary’s mission.
“We refuse to accept conflict as a way of life. We believe when people work to create peace, in their communities, the changes can have a global effect.”
Each year the Rotary also awards more than 100 fully funded Peace Fellowships training for dedicated leaders around the world.
Since the program began in 2002, the Rotary Peace Centres have trained more than 1,500 fellows across 115 countries, many of which now serve as leaders in governments, the military, education, law enforcement and international organisations like the United Nations.
Contact Margaret Morley [email protected] for more information.
