Troy University’s International Student Cultural Organization (ISCO) and the International Arts Center will team up to commemorate the International Day of Peace on Sept. 21. The event is free and open to the public.

Established in 1981 by the United Nations General Assembly, the International Day of Peace was created to strengthen the ideals of peace through observing 24 hours on non-violence and cease-fire throughout the world. The theme for the 2023 observance is “Actions for peace: Our ambition for the #GlobalGoals.”

TROY students will gather at Hawkins-Adams-Long Hall of Honor on the Troy Campus at 6:30 p.m. and, beginning at 7 p.m., will march, bearing international flags, to the Peace Dove statue, created by the artist Nall, on the Daniel Foundation of Alabama Plaza, located behind the International Arts Center. The march will be followed by a program, featuring student speakers and music.

“This annual collaboration with ISCO is always a treasured event to see the shining and hopeful faces of our diverse community and to celebrate what unites us the most – peace,” said Carrie Jaxon, Director of Curator of TROY’s International Arts Center. “Seeing the brightly colored flags waving together, marching across campus, is a sight to behold. The IAC is honored to work alongside ISCO to host this annual event.”

In addition, TROY graphic design students are competing in a peace-themed poster contest leading up to the event with the winners being announced during the program.

“The Peace Walk is a meaningful expression of Troy University’s pledge to be Alabama’s international university,” said Dr. Jay Valentine, ISCO advisor and faculty member in the Department of History and Philosophy. “Come help us uphold the flags of all nations in a symbolic act of peace.”