Central America

The northern triangle of Central America is a region severely affected by violence, a lack of institutional trust, and little citizen engagement.

Peace Day is the perfect opportunity to bring together various organizations, local leaders, artists, sports figures, youth, media and citizens around one simple call for action: peacebuilding takes everyone’s commitment and involvement.

So far, interest has been substantial. More than 25 organizations have committed to continue working jointly on the promotion of a culture of peace - based on commonalities and respecting differences - every day.

Guatemala City

Radio talk show – 06:30

A nationally-aired radio talk show called “Themes and Debates” will focus on Peace Day and will be hosted by Enrique Godoy.

Chain for Peace – 09:00-12:00

A Chain for Peace will be created downtown involving more than 2,000 youth from different organizations in support of Global Truce 2012. The event will consist of a human chain 17 blocks long, starting at a peace monument in front of Guatemala City Municipality and ending at the peace monument at the National Palace of Culture.

Everyone participating in the chain will have the opportunity to pass to the next person a white rose. At the end of the chain, 21 white roses will be placed at the monument to send the message: peacebuilding takes everyone’s commitment and involvement. It is expected that national leaders, artists and sports figures will take part in the chain.

Dance of Life – 15:00

Presentation of Dance is Life, a human rights organization's original play. The play addresses historical, institutionalized violence in Guatemala from a youth perspective and proposes to overcome it through arts. In the audience will be national leaders and media.

Villa Nueva

Youth activities – 09:00

The Youth Coordination and local government will carry out three different activities, involving over 1500 youth:

1. Youth forum: How many people are needed to build peace?
2. Street soccer quick tournament
3. Artistic event in support of Global Truce 2012

Mixco

Artistic & Sports Activities – 09:00

The Youth Alliance Association, in coordination with the local government, will have artistic and sports activities in the ‘miracle’ community, a severely violence affected area in support of Global Truce 2012. The activities will involve more than 500 at-risk youth.

Santa Catarina Pinula

Walk for Peace, Artistic & Sports Activities – 09:00

The Youth Alliance Association, in coordination with the local government, will have a walk for peace and artistic and sports activities downtown, involving at least 250 youth.