[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 142 (Thursday, September 22, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1690]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


              IN RECOGNITION OF INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PEACE

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                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 22, 2011

  Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of 
International Day of Peace. This year represents the 30th anniversary 
of this global celebration and focus on international peace.
  In 1981, the United Nations (UN) General Assembly first established 
the International Day of Peace. It mandated that it be observed 
annually on the third Tuesday of September, coinciding with the opening 
of the General Assembly. The resolution was introduced jointly by the 
United Kingdom and Costa Rica. The first International Day of Peace, 
also known as World Peace Day, was observed in 1982. In 2001, a new 
resolution passed the UN General Assembly, specifying September 21st as 
the annual day of non-violence and cease-fire.
  Today, September 21, 2011, marks the 30th anniversary of 
International Peace Day. This year's theme is ``Peace and Democracy: 
Make Your Voice Heard.'' The UN welcomes nations throughout the world 
``to honor a cessation of hostilities during the Day, and to otherwise 
commemorate the Day through education and public awareness on issues 
related to peace.'' UN Secretary General, Ban Ki-moon will also ring 
the Peace Bell today at the UN Headquarters. The Peace Bell was donated 
by Japan in 1549 and is inscribed with the phrase, ``Long live absolute 
world peace.''
  Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me as the global community 
comes together to celebrate the UN's International Day of Peace.

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