Dreams theme for peace week 2008
| Published: 21st August 2008 21:13 |
September sees the launch of the seventh London Week of Peace in Barking and Dagenham. And this year, the borough's younger generation will be part of the action.
Under the banner of D.R.E.A.M.S, the week-long programme of activities from 14 to 21 September will see sport, music, workshops and guest speakers providing information, entertainment and events. Local people will have an opportunity to get involved together as a community.
The launch this year takes place at Sydney Russell School in Dagenham on Monday 15 September. The event will include students singing 'We are the world' dressed in traditional British and African clothes, a buffet, and a musical and dance event involving 34 dancers and musicians.
The launch will culminate in the release, by Barking and Dagenham Deputy Mayor, Cllr Fred Barns, of 17 white doves of peace representing one for each borough ward.
Guest will include representatives from community groups, local public services,councillors and local businesses.
The school will also be inviting students to sign a pledge not to carry knives and on Friday 19 September a Race for Peace around the borough's perimeter (about 15 miles) will see a torch of peace carried by the runners. An inter-school football tournament will also take place.
Barking and Dagenham's Week of Peace will be supporting the local Police knife crime campaign with a five-a-side football competition and a screening arch operating at Heathway station.
On Wednesday 17 September between 12pm and 2pm there will be an opportunity for local people to 'sign up for peace' at Barking Town Square
Cllr Charles Fairbrass, Leader of the Council, said: "Peace Week means a lot more than just a few days to put across positive messages of peace and harmony. It is a wonderful opportunity for the whole community to meet and greet their neighbours and fellow residents and be part of a huge borough get together.
"The Week of Peace is a unique annual event for Londoners to celebrate and promote initiatives and values that make a real difference to peace and safety in our neighbourhoods.
"There's a wide range of activities planned for the week which I'm sure will appeal to all ages. I do hope that many people are able to be part of this great event."
Peace Week is the brainchild of the Peace Alliance, and was first launched in 2001 as a local initiative to reduce crime through links with local faith, community and voluntary organisations.
The main programme of events for London Peace Week in Barking and Dagenham are:
Launch of London Week of Peace.
Monday, 15, September 10am until 11.30am at Sydney Russell School. Highlight of the event will be the release of 17 white doves, representing one for each borough ward. This event is by invitation. If you would like to attend, please contact organisers Powerhouse on 020 8517 5827.
Soccer tournaments
Involving Sydney Russell students organised by local police. Girls event takes place on 16 September with the boys kicking off on 17 September.
Peace Walk
Saturday 20 September. Starting at 1pm, from Abbey Green, Barking and finishing at Mayesbrook Park with an 'act of reflection' at 3pm.
Music for Peace
Saturday 20 September starting at around 12pm and ending at 7pm in Mayesbrook Park, a musical event showcasing local talent.
During the week, there will be:
Anti crime/hate crime lectures and other peace related crime prevention activities arranged by the Safer Neighbourhood teams
- School visits by local Police who will be giving talks at assemblies on safety.
- Setting up information stalls in shopping malls
- Registration and ID marking of mobile phones
- Advise and information on becoming a Special Constable
The Peace Breakfast will take place in October at Bethel Church, Parsloes Avenue, Dagenham. The breakfast meeting of local public services and community organisations will discuss how to build a strong and harmonious community.
For further information about Peace Week, the full programme of events and activities, please call event coordinator, Powerhouse, on 020 8517 5827.
source: barking and dagenham councill - aug 2008
