Bearing flags from around the world, Troy University students marched across campus in the spirit of peace on Thursday evening in observance of the United Nations’ International Day of Peace.
Presented jointly by TROY’s International Student Cultural Organization and the University’s International Arts Center, the annual observance culminated with a program around Violatta Pax, the Wounded Peace Dove statue created by the late artist Nall Hollis, who passed away on Sept. 14.
“It is such a beautiful sight seeing all these flags together,” Carrie Jaxon, Director and Curator of the IAC, told the gathering of students. “It feels like there is so much division these days, so this is such a beautiful statement of peace. The theme for this year’s International Day of Peace is ‘Cultivating a Culture of Peace,’ and that is what you are doing right here, right now.”
Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1981, the International Day of Peace, traditionally celebrated on Sept. 21, promotes global ideals of peace through 24 hours of non-violence and cease-fire.
ISCO President Hailey Morgan said peace was not just an ideal but an ongoing practice.
“It is a concept that transcends borders, cultures and religions. It embodies a state of harmony where understanding and compassion for our fellow human beings prevails. While often associated with quietness and tranquility, peace is far more profound,” Morgan said. “It represents a deep-rooted commitment to empathy and mutual respect. It requires us to be mindful of our actions, to actively choose dialogue over discord, empathy or indifference.”
Morgan said the environment at Troy University, known as Alabama’s International University, provides students with an opportunity to interact, understand and develop an appreciate for those from diverse backgrounds.
“At Troy University, with its rich international presence and diverse backgrounds, we have a unique opportunity to foster understanding and empathy,” she said. “We are in a privileged position to build connections that transcend geographical and cultural divides. Our diverse experiences can serve as bridges, helping to reach across gaps and build unity among us. We must not forget that, at our core, we are more alike than we are different. In our pursuit of peace, we must strive to rise above divisive narratives and remain focused on our common humanity. Today, as we walk together in the spirit of peace, let us commit ourselves to being the change we wish to see in the world so that our community can truly flourish.”
Richard Dankwah, a TROY student and ISCO member from Ghana, compared the way the world functions to that of the human body.
“Just as the body relies on homeostasis to maintain a stable internal environment, our global community relies on peace to ensure the well-being of all the parts,” he said. “In the body, homeostasis is the process that keeps everything in balance, adjusting to changes and ensuring that each organ functions optimally. Similarly, world peace acts as a stabilizing force, allowing nations to thrive and work together harmoniously. When one organ, in this case a nation, is in distress, it affects the entire system, disrupting the balance and potentially leading to serious consequences.”
Dankwah challenged students to work together to help achieve peace, both here and around the world.
“By striving for peace, we ensure that every nation can contribute to the collective health and progress of our world,” Dankwah said. “Just as homeostasis is essential for the survival of organisms, world peace is crucial for the survival and flourishment of humanity. Let us work together to maintain this balance for the sake of our shared future.”
Troy University graphic design students took part in a peace-themed poster contest as a part of the International Day of Peace. The posters were displayed outside of the IAC, overlooking the plaza. Winners of the contest were: Icie Wallace, first place; Kayleyah Gilbert, second place; and Xiaodie Wang, third place.
