A Peace Walk held Saturday (May 24) at Peace Arch Park drew nearly 100 people "in support of peace and unity," organizers say.
Commemorating the 12th anniversary of the Declaration of World Peace, the event 鈥� held by Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL) Canada 鈥� aimed to highlight that everyone has a role to play in peace. It is "a shared responsibility that transcends borders," a news release promoting the walk stated.
Saturday's turnout was a "powerful demonstration of unity and hope," organizers say.
"Today鈥檚 walk is a reminder that peace begins with ordinary people choosing unity over division and action over silence," an HWPL representative, identified only as Calvin, said in a May 25 news release.
The theme of the walk was 'Uniting the Americas, Footsteps for Peace.'
Attendees carried handmade signs with messages of peace and solidarity.
According to information at hwpl.kr, HWPL is "an international NGO committed to attaining the shared goal of humanity 鈥� establishing peace and ceasing wars."
Registered with the Seoul Metropolitan Government of the Republic of Korea, it "is leading an international peace movement with leaders in all walks of life without being limited by national, cultural, or ideological boundaries" and "will continue until sustainable peace is assured for future generations," the site continues.
Peace Arch Park is located on the Surrey-Blaine border. The Peace Arch structure was dedicated in 1921 to commemorate lasting peace and co-operation between Canada and the U.S. 鈥� a relationship that has been tested in recent months.
"Despite diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds, all (Peace Walk) attendees shared a common message: peace and friendship can prevail, even in times of uncertainty," the release states.
The event concluded with calls for elected officials on both sides of the border to prioritize diplomacy and peaceful cooperation, it adds.
