Every September 21, the world comes together to observe the International Day of Peace. This day is a reminder that peace is not a passive state, but an active one, built through compassion, dialogue, and the everyday choices we make to connect with one another.
To mark this day, we’ve gathered five powerful talks from TED and TEDx stages around the world that shine a light on what peace looks like in action. From global movements to simple acts of kindness, these talks challenge us to see peace as more than an abstract dream, but as something we can create—together.
Speaker: Jeremy Gilley, TEDGlobal
Filmmaker and activist Jeremy Gilley recounts his journey in contributing to the formation of what is now known as the International Day of Peace. His story highlights how a simple idea grew into a worldwide observance, sparking ceasefires and humanitarian aid efforts. He shows that collective action can turn peace into a lived reality.
Speaker: Jody Williams, TED
Nobel Peace Prize laureate Jody Williams offers a pragmatic perspective on building peace, urging us to focus on tangible actions rather than utopian ideals. Her vision emphasizes grassroots activism and accountability, showing us that peace is the product of choices we make together.
Speaker: Jordan Arogeti, TEDxAtlanta
Jordan Arogeti challenges us to rethink the ways we show support to one another in moments of loss and need. By moving beyond transactional gestures, she reminds us that true peace begins in the way we extend compassion and presence in our daily lives, building stronger and more resilient communities.
Speaker: Shunichi Karube, TEDxSuginami
Shunichi Karube, a 4th grader from Tokyo, shares his heartfelt journey toward peace and friendship across cultures. A trip to Phuket, Thailand showed him the joy of connecting with others despite language barriers and inspired him to see language learning as a bridge to stronger bonds.
He calls on all of us to build a peaceful world through kindness, understanding, and friendship, proof that even the youngest voices can inspire change.
Speaker: Susan Sparks, TEDxPeachtree (predecessor to TEDxAtlanta)
Susan Sparks shares how humor can break down barriers, heal wounds, and bring people together across divides. By highlighting the universal language of laughter, she reminds us that peace often starts with something as simple and profound as joy.
On this International Day of Peace, let these talks serve as a reminder that peace is not passive. It is a decisive act, big or small, built through compassion, action, and connection. Through advocacy, humor, or small acts of care, each of us has the power to be a peacemaker in our own lives and communities.
Acknowledging that We, The People, are the democracy is critical. Embracing our roles by voting and engaging actively with our government can ensure that our government serves our needs and reflects our values:
Watch: Citizen: The Most Important Title in American Democracy | Chris Hand | TEDxJacksonville
Recognizing the historical struggle to secure the right to vote for all American citizens underscores its significance: Watch: The fight for the right to vote in the United States | Nicki Beaman Griffin | TED-Ed
To make informed decisions in our diverse and evolving country, it’s imperative to fully understand civil liberties and rights, including the importance of voting and the need to organize and act against injustices:
Watch: The fight for civil rights and freedom | John Lewis and Bryan Stevenson | TED Legacy Project
Government transparency is a cornerstone of democracy. Becoming familiar with open government is important for analyzing democratic values, as it ensures the government remains accountable to the People:
Watch: Why Open Government is So Crucial To Our Society | Martha Mendoza | TEDxSantaCruz
Facing the flaws within the American Justice System reinforces the need for active voting and full engagement in our democracy, as such actions help us advance the equitable reforms we desire for our country:
Watch: The Most UNjust System, The Justice System | Cassandra Owei | TEDxYouth@AISCT
In summary, democracy thrives on informed participation. By voting, staying educated, and listening to diverse perspectives, you can help shape a government that truly reflects the needs of all. Your voice matters—use it to make a difference.
The workings of our democracy can be complicated and daunting, so in the spirit of learning, we’ve compiled a few links to resource.
Start or update your registration here
How to vote by mail or in person here
Voter registration deadlines for the Tuesday, November 5, 2024 election.
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