Every September 21, the world comes together to observe the International Day of Peace. This day is a reminder that peace is not a passive state, but an active one, built through compassion, dialogue, and the everyday choices we make to connect with one another.
To mark this day, we’ve gathered five powerful talks from TED and TEDx stages around the world that shine a light on what peace looks like in action. From global movements to simple acts of kindness, these talks challenge us to see peace as more than an abstract dream, but as something we can create—together.
One Day of Peace
Speaker: Jeremy Gilley, TEDGlobal
Filmmaker and activist Jeremy Gilley recounts his journey in contributing to the formation of what is now known as the International Day of Peace. His story highlights how a simple idea grew into a worldwide observance, sparking ceasefires and humanitarian aid efforts. He shows that collective action can turn peace into a lived reality.
A Realistic Vision for World Peace
Speaker: Jody Williams, TED
Nobel Peace Prize laureate Jody Williams offers a pragmatic perspective on building peace, urging us to focus on tangible actions rather than utopian ideals. Her vision emphasizes grassroots activism and accountability, showing us that peace is the product of choices we make together.
Cash, Casseroles, and Grief: Rethinking How We Show Up for Each Other
Speaker: Jordan Arogeti, TEDxAtlanta
Jordan Arogeti challenges us to rethink the ways we show support to one another in moments of loss and need. By moving beyond transactional gestures, she reminds us that true peace begins in the way we extend compassion and presence in our daily lives, building stronger and more resilient communities.
A Road to Peace
Speaker: Shunichi Karube, TEDxSuginami
Shunichi Karube, a 4th grader from Tokyo, shares his heartfelt journey toward peace and friendship across cultures. A trip to Phuket, Thailand showed him the joy of connecting with others despite language barriers and inspired him to see language learning as a bridge to stronger bonds.
He calls on all of us to build a peaceful world through kindness, understanding, and friendship, proof that even the youngest voices can inspire change.
Laughing Our Way to World Peace
Speaker: Susan Sparks, TEDxPeachtree (predecessor to TEDxAtlanta)
Susan Sparks shares how humor can break down barriers, heal wounds, and bring people together across divides. By highlighting the universal language of laughter, she reminds us that peace often starts with something as simple and profound as joy.
Choosing Peace, One Act at a Time
On this International Day of Peace, let these talks serve as a reminder that peace is not passive. It is a decisive act, big or small, built through compassion, action, and connection. Through advocacy, humor, or small acts of care, each of us has the power to be a peacemaker in our own lives and communities.
