Proclamation

Whereas, the issue of peace embraces the deepest hopes of all peoples and remains humanity's guiding inspiration;and

Whereas, in 1981, the United Nations proclaimed the International Day of Peace be "devoted to commemorating and strengthening the ideals of peace both within and among all nations and peoples; and

Whereas, the United Nations has expanded the observance of the International Day of Peace in 2001 to include a call for a day of global ceasefire and non-violence, and invites all nations and people to honor a cessation of hostilities for the duration of the Day; and

Whereas there is a growing support within our cities for the observance of the International Day of Peace, which affirms a vision of our world at peace, and fosters cooperation between individuals, organizations, and nations; and

Whereas, the global crisis impels all citizens to work toward converting humanity's noblest aspirations for world peace into a practical reality for future generations.

Now, Therefore, We, Jeffrey L.Rea, Mayor of the City of Mishawaka, Indiana, and Stephen J. Luecke, Mayor of the City of South Bend, Indiana, do proclaim Friday, September 21st, 2007, as

International Day of Peace

throughout the cities of Mishawaka and South Bend and urge all government departments and agencies, organizations, schools, places of worship, and individuals in our cities to commemorate, in an appropriate manner, the International Day of Peace. This may include community service projects, cultural exhibits and performances, ringing of bells, sharing the universal wish "May Peace Prevail on Earth" at noon, vigils, religious services in our places of worship, and other education and public awareness activities in order to help establish a global day of peace in our homes, our communities, and between nations.

In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and have caused the Official Seal of the City of Mishawaka to be affixed this 21st day of September, 2007. Signed by Mayor Jeffrey L.Rea

In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and have caused the Official Seal of the City of South Bend to be affixed this 21st day of September, 2007. Signed by Mayor Stephen J.Luecke