WPDI Voices on What It Means to Live Together in Peace
On May 16, the world observes the International Day of Living Together in Peace – a day to promote reconciliation, inclusion, and building a more just and peaceful world. At the Whitaker Peace & Development Initiative, peace is not just a value; it’s a practice, a skill, and a way of life. This year, we asked members of our global community—youth leaders, peace educators, and mediators—what living together in peace means to them. Their reflections from across Africa, Latin America, and the United States offer a glimpse into how peace is lived and nurtured every day.
« Peace is possible through dialogue, empathy, and shared responsibility. »
— Irene Lutwala, Youth Peacemaker, Gulu District, Uganda
« To me, living together in peace means creating a society where mutual respect, understanding, and tolerance overcome our differences. Even though challenges arise, I believe peaceful coexistence is possible through dialogue, empathy, and shared responsibility. »
« It is a form of resistance and also hope. »
— Yaxkin Figeroa, Youth Peacemaker, Chiapas, Mexico
« To me, living together in peace is remembering that we live collectively: it means loving, caring for, and knowing our territory. It is a form of resistance and also hope. »
« Listening and kindness are how I solve problems. »
— Abigaba Moses, Youth Peacemaker, Kiryandongo Refugee Settlement, Uganda
« To me, living together in peace means understanding and respecting others, even when we disagree. I practice it by listening to people, being kind, and using the conflict resolution skills I’ve learned at WPDI to help solve problems peacefully in my community. »
« Peace is patience, kindness, and staying grounded. »
— Afikile Noholoza, Peace Education Student, South Africa
« To me, living in peace means being kind, staying grounded, and treating others with love. I try to keep a positive mindset, even when things get tough. Every day, I practice peace by being patient, actively listening, and showing small acts of kindness. »
« Embracing our differences builds a stronger society. »
— Joseph Dusman, Youth Peacemaker, Juba, South Sudan
« To me, living together in peace means diverse communities embracing their differences to build a stronger, more united society. I practice this by using the conflict resolution tools I’ve gained through WPDI and by showing up with respect for everyone I encounter in my daily life. »
« Peace means not reacting negatively. »
— Julissa, Peer Mediator, Los Angeles, California
« To me, living in peace means being able to handle different personalities and not give a negative reaction. One of the ways I practice this in my community is by treating everyone kindly and fairly. »
As we mark this International Day of Living Together in Peace, we celebrate the bold and compassionate work of our community members who make peace real where they live, one action at a time.