YMCA of Cape Breton Celebrates YMCA Peace Week

(Sydney, NS) – From November 12-19, during YMCA Peace Week, the YMCA of Cape Breton, together with YMCAs across Canada, are celebrating the presence of peace in our communities, and reflecting on the peace building work that happens all year both inside and outside the YMCA.

In keeping with this year’s International Day of Peace theme of “End racism. Build peace.” YMCA Peace Week 2022 focuses on developing an anti-racist lens to understand conflicts taking place around the globe. The goal is that this year’s theme continues to inspire our work throughout the year.

During YMCA Peace Week, we honour those at the forefront of these peace-building efforts and encourage Canadians to ask themselves how they can bring change to their communities.

“It’s important that we work together to create peaceful communities where everyone feels that they belong,” says Sabrina Vatcher, CEO at the YMCA of Cape Breton. “By celebrating YMCA Peace Week together, we are taking a stand and creating the future we want for our community, country, and world.”

When people act for peace, they build community by promoting a sense of belonging, fostering empathy, and embracing diversity.

“We all have opportunities each day to choose to act for peace. They may be small actions, but they make a big difference and create a ripple effect through our community. By sharing our message of peace, we are able to inspire others to become engaged in peaceful actions,” says Vatcher.

A special highlight of this week is the presentation of the YMCA Peace Medal to an individual and a group who, without any special resources, demonstrates a commitment to peace through individual contributions made within their local, national, or global community.

Additionally, the Cape Breton Regional Municipality will raise a peace flag at the Civic Centre on Monday, November 14, at 10am. All community members are invited to attend.

Peace Week celebrations will continue until November 19. All Peace Week activities are free to the community. Individuals can view the full list of Peace Week activities at https://capebreton.ymca.ca/ymca-peace-week-2022/.

For further information, please contact:

Emily MacLennan
Marketing Manager, Anchored Ideas
902-322-1759
emaclennan@anchoredideas.com