Syrian refugees’ quest for safety. A paralyzed U.S. veteran’s antiwar protests. College students’ pursuit of peace and social justice. These are some of the topics that will help mark the University of Louisville’s PeaceDay 2016 celebration, Sept. 21-22.
The Peace, Justice and Conflict Transformation Program organizes the free, public celebration of the United Nations’ International Day of Peace. The full schedule of activities includes:
September 21
- 1 p.m. discussion of “positive peace,” a concept described as the presence of peace and justice rather than the mere absence of violence, Chao Auditorium, Ekstrom Library. Honors Student Council is co-sponsor.
- 4 p.m. “Taking Action” social justice forum for students and others, Room 205, Bingham Humanities Building.
- 6 p.m. talk by Louisville author Mark Wilkerson on “Tomas Young’s War,” Chao Auditorium, Ekstrom Library, with reception afterward. Wilkerson’s 2016 book by the same title examines the efforts of a U.S. military veteran to adjust to his Iraq War injuries and to advocate for peace. Young, who died in 2014, also inspired the documentary “Body of War,” and the song “No More,” by Pearl Jam’s Eddie Vetter.
September 22
- 5 p.m. performance of “The Syrian Monologues,” Thrust Theater, 2314 S. Floyd St. The presentation features several stories from Syrians seeking safety in a Jordan refugee camp. Variations of “The Syrian Monologues” will be presented around the world this year, culminating in a performance at the United Nations office in Geneva, to foster understanding about refugees. UofL sponsors include the Anne Braden Institute for Social Justice Research and the theatre arts department. The event is free but seating is limited; registration is recommended and can be done online.
