URI is 16 years old! From a few people talking about faith as a tool for unity rather than blame, our community has grown to 787 Cooperation Circles actively putting that idea into practice in 95 countries. We have a lot to be proud of, and are looking forward to our next chapter together—we have a lot of work to do still.
Despite considerable progress, the quality and presence of peace is still declining globally. Our news is increasingly full of targeted violence driven by fear of difference, communities fracture a little every time, and people find it easier to slip into attitudes of mistrust. More than ever, there is an urgent need for greater dialogue and community-based engagement in addressing barriers to peace.
We’re doing something special for our anniversary, and we hope you’ll join us. URI was closely involved with the establishment of the United Nations’ International Day of Peace, observed every year on September 21. 2016’s theme focuses on the Global Goals for Sustainable Development, the new agenda for peace and development to be achieved by 2030. The 17 Goals cover thematic priorities including gender equality, education, health, the environment, and more. These issues impact us all differently, and URI Cooperation Circles work daily to address them in innovative and community-specific ways.
Over the next three months, URI will be holding an extended anniversary party in conjunction with our International Day of Peace activities. In lieu of cake, we’re participating in the global Compassion Games, and will be lighting “candles” of hope to celebrate our community’s impact in effecting change. URI is also launching a campaign to raise awareness and support for our network’s activities in pursuit of peace, specifically in relation to this year’s International Day of Peace and the Global Goals. Follow us for stories of hope, change, and practical idealism and help spread the word.
