Peace Park Dedication & Renaming Ceremony

To kick off the fall season, the Pocket Park was given an excellent upgrade and a new name. The pocket park became the Peace Park in a dedication ceremony that combined the ERT Foundation with the Rotary Club of Hampton Roads, Norfolk Sister Cities Association, members of St. James Holiness Church of Christ Disciples and a presentation by our Ward 4 Councilman John “J.P.” Paige! Just before the sky opened up with rain, we were able to dedicate the park by sharing in the peace pledge that gives the park its name. Earlier this year the Rotary Club installed a Peace Pole with the inscription “May Peace Prevail on Earth.” It’s in the language of all seven of our Sister Cities, including a Braille inscription.

The ceremony was held the day after the International Day of Peace observed globally to strengthen the ideals of peace and promote a culture of non-violence and ceasefires. The theme this year was Invest in Peace- for everyone, everywhere, every day – individuals and grassroots groups can drive local action and build stability

Peace is more than just the absence of conflict, it is the lived experience of safety, dignity, cooperation, and opportunity in daily life. These are core tenets of the Elizabeth River Trail Foundation where we believe that everyone deserves safe access to green space, that trails serve as recreation, transportation, and provide opportunities for literal human connection improving quality of life as well as physical and mental health.

While the ceremony took place on the fall equinox instead of the day of peace, executive director Kindra asked those gathered to consider the difference one person can make, the difference one small space can make in a community. That is the goal for the Peace Park, to be  a sanctuary, and to make a difference, Councilman Paige, echoed the sentiment wishing to see a ripple of connection throughout all of Norfolk!

The park has officially been mapped on Google check it out here.