Ka'u Rural Health Community Association, Inc.

Ka’u Peace Pole Dedication Ceremony – Sep 22, 2022

Posted on October 8, 2022

Thursday Sept. 22, 2022
Ka’u Hospital – Pahala

United Nations 2022 Theme:    End Racism. Build Peace.

Each year the International Day of Peace is observed around the world on 21 September. The UN General Assembly has declared this as a day devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace, through observing 24 hours of non-violence and cease-fire.

But achieving true peace entails much more than laying down arms.  It requires the building of societies where all members feel that they can flourish. It involves creating a world in which people are treated equally, regardless of their race.

Secretary-General António Guterres has said:

“Racism continues to poison institutions, social structures, and everyday life in every society. It continues to be a driver of persistent inequality. And it continues to deny people their fundamental human rights. It destabilizes societies, undermines democracies, erodes the legitimacy of governments, and… the linkages between racism and gender inequality are unmistakable.”

As conflicts continue to erupt across the globe, causing people to flee, we have seen race-based discrimination at borders. As COVID-19 keeps attacking our communities, we have seen how certain racial groups have been hit much harder than others. As economies suffer, we have seen hate speech and violence directed at racial minorities.

We all have a role to play in fostering peace. And tackling racism is a crucial way to contribute.

We can work to dismantle the structures that entrench racism in our midst. We can support movements for equality and human rights everywhere. We can speak out against hate speech – both offline and online. We can promote anti-racism through education and reparatory justice.

The 2022 theme for the International Day of Peace is “End racism. Build peace.” We invite to join the efforts of the United Nations as we work towards a world free of racism and racial discrimination. A world where compassion and empathy overcome suspicion and hatred. A world that we can truly be proud of.

Peace Pole History

The planting of peace poles emerged fro the spiritual journey of Japanese philosopher and author, Masahisa Goi. His spiritual path emerged from the dark hours of post-World War II; he realized in the
course of his healing work that people needed help healing their emotional side as well as the physical. To that end, he sought a simple practice that could be done by anyone. (Ref. Ke Ola Magazine Article:
author Jan Wizinowich).

The International Day of Peace (“Peace Day”) is observed around the world each year on 21 September. Established in 1918 by unanimous United Nations resolution, Peace  Day provides a globally shared date for all humanity to commit to Peace above all differences and tocontribute to building a Culture of Peace.

PEACE POLES AROUND HAWAII ISLAND

The first peace pole on Hawaii Island was planted at Kuhio Kalanaiana’ole Park in Keaukaha; followed by Kohala Innovations Charter School, Old Kona Airport Park, West Hawaii Civic Center, Palamanui Community College, Paleaku Peace Garden, Pahoa Puna Kai Shopping Center, STARS Peace Garden in Hilo, Tutu’s House in Waimea, Volcano Art Center, Liliuokalani Gardens and now on the grounds Ka’u Hospital in Pahala.
The planting of Ka’u Peace Pole on Ka’u Hospital grounds in Pahala embodies the cultural, spiritual, historical and personal commitment of keiki, family, Kupuna and community raising awareness and joining other Hawaii Island / global communities in promoting “World Peace”.

We look forward to celebrating “International Day of Peace” each year and invite everyone to join us. Be sure to bring your friends and family to visit our Ka’u Peace Pole in Pahala.

9:00am Dedication Ceremony Opening: Bell Ringing
9:05 Pule: Kupuna Jesse Ke, Ka’u Advisory Council
9:10 Pledge of Allegiance: Chuck Doyle, US Airforce Veteran
9:20 Welcome:
Bev Garrett, EmCee Volcano Rotary Club
Jennifer Aguiar, Ka’u Hospital & Rural Health Clinic
Auntie Jessie Marques, Executive Director Ka’u Rural Health
Community Association
9:30 Lee Lord, Hawaii County Mayors Managing Director
9:35 Michelle Galimba, Ka’u County Council Representative
9:40 Dan Brinkman, CEO Hawaii Health Systems Corporation
9:45 Unveiling of Peace Pole
9:50 Dedication
10:00 Closing Remarks:
MAHALO! to everyone for attending 2022 Ka’u Peace

Pole dedication ceremony

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