Peace Days
Coming Together and Investing in Peace, Every Day
Source: UN
On September 21, the International Day of Peace reminds us that peace is about much more than the absence of war. It is also built within our communities through security, dignity, justice, dialogue and our ability to live together.
In 2026, the United Nations has chosen the theme “Invest in Peace: For Everyone, Everywhere, Every Day.” At a time when the world is facing conflict, division and insecurity, this call to action shines a light on “everyday peacebuilders”—people who, often at the local level, help prevent violence, bring communities together and create more inclusive societies.
In Quebec: “Building the Future: Uniting for Peace”
This global call to action finds a concrete expression in Quebec with the 12th edition of the Peace Days, organized from September 21 to October 2 by the Peace Network for Social Harmony.
Under the theme “Building the Future: Uniting for Peace,” nearly 90 organizations from the community, cultural, educational and philanthropic sectors are offering more than 90 initiatives. Discussions, workshops, exhibitions, screenings, arts and family activities, as well as online resources, explore issues such as living together, inclusion, violence prevention, intercultural relations, social justice, well-being and women’s leadership.
The program is almost entirely free and takes place primarily in Montreal. Some 30 online activities and resources also make Peace Days accessible to a much wider audience.
From the International Day of Peace to the International Day of Non-Violence
The choice of dates is significant. Activities begin with the International Day of Peace on September 21, established by the United Nations in 1981 and designated in 2001 as a day of non-violence and ceasefire. They conclude on October 2, the International Day of Non-Violence.
This nearly two-week journey reminds us that peace cannot simply be declared: it must be learned, nurtured and reflected in our relationships, institutions and collective choices.
As Brian Bronfman, President and Co-Founder of the Peace Network for Social Harmony, explains:
“For peace to thrive, it must not only be a shared value within society, but also be valued and supported by its institutions. It must also be reflected in an inclusive attitude and in the everyday actions of community members.”
Source: Network for Peace and Social Harmony
Becoming Peacebuilders Ourselves
The United Nations encourages us to take simple actions: volunteer our time to help others, speak up to inspire positive change, organize a discussion circle or share stories of peace and hope using the hashtag #InvestInPeace.
This vision deeply resonates with the values of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM) and their commitments to peace, social justice, human dignity and education.
Investing in peace also begins close to home: listening, seeking understanding, building bridges and refusing to remain indifferent are all ways we can begin today to build the peaceful society we want for tomorrow.
Watch the video from the Network for Peace and Social Harmony.