On 30 January, Spain celebrated the School Day of Non-Violence and Peace, a date dedicated to commemorating a culture of non-violence and peace. Across the country, Roots & Shoots groups in educational centres organised diverse activities to reinforce their commitment to respect, empathy, and solidarity.
In Murcia, the group “Yo también soy planeta” hosted a day of activities, sharing inspiring messages to remind everyone that peace is a daily practice—one that builds a better world.
In Galicia, the “Los salvamundos” group reflected on the importance of rejecting all forms of violence under the motto “Silence your violence.” Students gathered in the playground to commemorate the day collectively.
The Valencian Community saw multiple initiatives:
In Aragón, the “Zaidineros” group in Huesca organised a solidarity run, with funds raised used to collect hygiene products for Cáritas. In Zaragoza, “IES Gallicum” planted an olive tree as a symbol of peace, and students designed a mural shaped like the tree, writing their peace wishes on its leaves.
From Andalusia, groups demonstrated their commitment through art and action:
In Las Palmas, “Heidelverde” drew inspiration from the story of Sadako Sasaki, the Japanese girl who folded 1,000 paper cranes for a world without war. Students created their own cranes and hung them on a tree as a symbol of hope.
In Asturias, “CAI Aspace” crafted a large dove, with each feather representing a kind gesture or wish for peace.
Finally, in Catalonia, “INS La Sureda” in Girona distributed famous peace quotes around their school, while “Brots” in Barcelona wrote messages on symbolic plasters as a “cure” for global conflicts.
Though the activities varied, they all shared a common goal: to build peace collectively. These initiatives by young people across Spain exemplify how education and action can promote justice, dignity, and equality.
Reminder that on the 21 September this year the world will be celbrtaing World Peace Day, perhaps your group can be inspired from a few of these amazing initiatives from Roots & Shoots Spain
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