Nassau, Bahamas – Students from more than 30 schools gathered at the R. M. Bailey Park on Thursday to celebrate the second annual ‘Peace Rally 2009’, organized by coordinators of the Urban Renewal Livable Neighbourhood Programme.
“It is such a wonderful day to be celebrating peace,” said Minister of State in the Ministry of Labour and Social Development, Loretta Butler-Turner. “We gather today in the spirit of peace, fellowship and unity.”
It is hoped that by coming together with people of different ages, religions and background, would promote peace, unity and safety in the schools, communities and the country, she said.
“This rally is intended to encourage young people to channel their energy, talents and resources into positive, uplifting behaviour, and for us, as adults, to offer hope and to reward our young people for their great efforts,” she said.
Programmes such as Urban Renewal offer opportunities for promoting peace, she said.
“As a society we need more rewards and more positive outlets for the naturally high energy of our children,” said Mrs Butler-Turner. “Our Urban Renewal Centres, along with community leaders, and parents are doing a wonderful job by assisting young people with constructive after-school activities in their communities. I commend all of you and implore you to continue doing all the good works that you’re doing.”
Coordinator of Urban Renewal Pogramme, Ella Lewis, told the participants that with peace, communities will enjoy prosperity, harmony and friendship.
“This day is a very important day for us as we celebrate peace because without it, we are nothing but with it, we are everything,” said Ms Lewis. “The choices that you young people make today will affect and determine your tomorrow, so make good choices.”
CAPTIONS
Children
Claridge Primary students perform during the Ministry of Labour & Social Development’s Urban Renewal Peace Rally at R.M. Bailey on Thursday, April 30, 2009. (BIS photo Letisha Henderson)
Turner
Minister of State in the Ministry of Labour & Social Development, Loretta Butler-Turner, speak during the Urban Renewal Peace Rally, Thursday, April 30, 2009 at R.M. Bailey Park. (BIS photo Letisha Henderson)
Peace
Minister of State in the Ministry of Labour & Social Development, Loretta Butler-Turner (front left), and Ella Lewis, Coordinator, Urban Renewal Programme flash peace signs during the Urban Renewal Peace Rally at R.M. Bailey on Thursday, April 30, 2009. (BIS photo Letisha Henderson)
Perform
Christian Massive perform during the Urban Renewal Peace Rally at R.M. Bailey on Thursday, April 30, 2009. (BIS photo Letisha Henderson)