OWEN SOUND – From November 15 - 22, 2014, YMCA Peace Week invites people of all ages to reflect on peace, to talk, and to take action, individually and with others. A special highlight of this week is the presentation of the YMCA Peace Medallion to an individual or group who, without any special resources, demonstrates a commitment to peace through individual contributions made within their local, national or global communities. This year's ceremony took place Thursday, November 20 in the YMCA Health and Fitness Facility at the Julie McArthur Regional Recreation Centre.
The YMCA believes peace is more than the absence of violence and conflict. Peace is the ongoing work of building and rebuilding conditions of fairness, inclusion, empathy, security and respect for diversity.
The 2014 YMCA Peace Medallion was presented to two members of our community.
Joan Beecroft was recognized with the 2014 YMCA Peace Medallion for her past and continued support of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgendered, queer (LGBTQ) community across Grey and Bruce counties. Joan has listened to and understood the perspectives of countless parents, students, and community members and is the "go to" person in the community for activities whose focus is LGBTQ. Joan has empathy for people who are afraid to be who they are; courage to help and advocate for positive, peaceful change; a history of active participation in the community, and supported and empowered young people in Grey-Bruce-Owen Sound for years.
The 2014 YMCA Peace Medallion was presented to Dr Don Wilmott, in recognition of his lifelong commitment to and involvement in the practice of peace. Don has organized, participated in, and contributed to countless groups and events locally, nationally and globally throughout his life, advocating for peaceful solutions. Don has demonstrated longevity and consistency of action with far reaching effects in his promotion of peace... of over 70 years!
Since the YMCA Peace Medallion's inception in 1987, over 1,500 Canadian have been recognized. YMCA Peace Week asks people to: Build Community. Act for Peace.
Source - YMCA
