Rededication of Southampton Rotary Peace Pole: Embracing Peace in Ojibwa and Japanese
September 21, 2023
Earlier today at Perkins Park Southampton, we came together for a momentous occasion to rededicate the Southampton Rotary Peace Pole. This powerful symbol of unity united community leaders, representatives, and residents for a day of reflection and peace.
The ceremony featured addresses from notable figures, including Club President Dave Bertrand and Deputy Mayor Diane Huber, Lori Kewaquom from Saugeen First Nation illuminated the translation process of the Peace Pole's message into Ojibwa. - "Bekaadesewin".
This year the club is hosting Rei Kaneda, a Japanese Rotary Youth Exchange Student, and the club added a Peace message in Japanese and Rei took the opportunity to bring greetings from her home country.
Past President, Jenny Amy gave a short address on the meaning of peace to conclude the ceremony and formally invited all present to reflect and rededicate the pole by saying the words 'May Peace Prevail on Earth'.
Peace Poles Originated in post-WWII Japan, and our Pole now stands as a beacon of Rotary's commitment to peacebuilding. Inscribed with 'May Peace Prevail on Earth' in eight languages, it embodies the collective hope for peace worldwide.
