Buffalo Sunrise members and guests were a part of the dedication ceremony of a Rotary Peace Pole, erected at Towpath Park in Buffalo on August 12.The languages on the pole say, “May Peace Prevail on Earth” and represent the Seneca Nation – the original stewards of the sacred ground on which we stand and the valuable water source we view. The other languages: English, French, Burmese, Irish, Spanish, Urdu, and Polish represent the many nations whose people have made this area their home and who, in past and present generations, have enriched our nation and community through their work, culture, and presence in our community. It was an honor to continue the spirit of peace by installing one out of more than 200,000 Peace Poles at Towpath Park, at the great Niagara River, within sight of our neighbor and friend, Canada. We were honored to have Erie County Parks and city officials in attendance, a native Seneca Michael Carles, and representation from the League of Women Voters and the Niagara River Greenway in attendance.
“May Peace Prevail on Earth” was recited in unison in English by attendees also in French, Gaelic, and Kinyarwanda (Rwanda).
PHOTOS: 1) Eileen Charleton reading May Peace Prevail on Earth in Gaelic; 2) Michael Carles, President Jill Norton, Barbara Ochterski