Jane Goodall’s Roots & Shoots International Day of Peace
“With the Peace Doves, we remind everyone of the truth they sometimes forget—that peace is possible. We celebrate all that is free and noble in the human spirit. And we celebrate all that so many people have done throughout the year—and will do next year—to create a better world for all,” said Dr. Goodall.
Jane Goodall’s Roots & Shoots Day of Peace
The 2026 UN theme “Invest in Peace: For Everyone, Everywhere, Every Day”
This theme reminds us that peace is not only shaped by governments or institutions. Peace is something we create in our schools, families, communities and everyday interactions. This year’s theme celebrates the “everyday architects of peace” who contribute to a safer, more just and more compassionate world through their daily actions. [un.org]
Read more information in our full 2026 Campaign Brief
The answer may look different from one community to another. For some groups, peace may mean inclusion, kindness and stronger relationships. For others it may mean caring for animals, restoring nature, supporting vulnerable people, building understanding across cultures, or creating opportunities for young people to be heard.
© the Jane Goodall Institute Creative expression has always been an important part of Roots & Shoots Peace Day celebrations. This year groups are encouraged to use art, music, dance, poetry, storytelling, photography, discussion, performance or other creative forms to share their vision of peace and inspire others. Groups may also choose to participate in the long-standing Roots & Shoots tradition of creating Peace Doves, including the Giant Peace Dove Puppets. These doves have flown in communities around the world as symbols of hope, unity and the shared desire for a more peaceful future.
As we commemorate this year’s Peace Day, we invite Roots & Shoots groups everywhere to honour Dr. Jane’s legacy by reflecting on what peace means in their own communities and by taking action to help create it.
- Explore what peace means in your community.
- Plan an activity, creative expression or local action.
- Capture your project through photos, videos, artwork or reflections.
- Submit your story to be part of the virtual Peace Day exhibition.
Be Part of the Global Exhibition
We invite all groups to document and share their Peace Day projects, activities and art with the global Roots & Shoots network. All submissions will be included in our virtual Peace day exhibition. Submissions may include: Photos, Videos, Artwork, Stories, Reflections, Community peace pledges, Peace Dove creations, Examples of local action. Together, these stories will help us celebrate the many ways that people around the world are investing in peace every day.
2026 Peace Day Gallery
Resources
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Information and activity guide for educators, parents, and youth.
Activity guide for educators, parents and group mentors.
Featuring artwork by a Roots & Shoots Japan youth member (Haruto Ide) inspired by Dr. Jane.
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