The Exhibition

The physical construction of the “Building a Culture of Peace” exhibition consists of nine thematic segments presented on panels that feature a combination of text , photographic images and other designs. Twenty-eight panel walls, which measure eight feet in height, are attached to one of 15 multi-sided display units and are set up using approximately 3,700 square feet of space.

After a brief introduction, the “Barriers to Peace” segment examines impediments to peace ranging from greed and prejudice to environmental irresponsibility and nuclear negativity.

Eight United Nations Action Areas are then presented and explained in an understandable manner. Visitors are questioned about the status of the Action Areas in their own lives or in the communities where they live, and what is being done about it. The Actions Areas include education, economics, gender equality and human rights.

“It isn’t enough to talk about peace. One must believe in it. And it isn’t enough to believe in it. One must work at it.”
— Eleanor Roosevelt

This quote from the famous former U.S. first lady starts off the section “Paths to Peace” that presents issues connected to the culture of peace on the level of the individual. It reminds the viewer that peace starts with a single life. Other paths include the importance of dialogue, community building, global awareness about the interconnectedness of life and ending reliance on armaments. They are all presented as prerequisites to peace.

“Religions and Peace” counsels the viewer that religion should be used to connect people to one another, and not to divide. Kids’ art and words are introduced in “Children are the Future” as a powerful means of driving home a big reason for working for peace: our progeny.

Towards the end, “Peace Builders” introduces 60 people who have made outstanding contributions to peace. It goes on to explain that some of these individuals are famous, while others are ordinary people. Then it asks: “Can you imagine becoming a peaceful person? What is your dream for peace in your family? In your school or workplace? In your community? In the world?

The wonder of this exhibition is that it inspires imagination and action — a recipe for hope. Together with the U.N. Culture of Peace Program, the exhibit promotes a comprehensive and inclusive framework that fosters thinking, commitment and action for peace.