Top photo: Bill Ferguson, 87, attended the first peace walk 41 years ago. Photos by Barbara Nederpel.
The Council of Canadians Kamloops chapter hosted the 41st annual walk for peace this past Saturday (May 7).
In the lead-up to the event, chapter activist Anita Strong commented, “It is heartening to see so many local groups supporting this year’s walk [to make] the 41st anniversary a special event.” She has previously noted, “I think the people go away from an event like this and get inspired to do something, to join a group, to speak out. It makes me really happy that there is this kind of support.”
Promoting the event on Facebook, activist Michael Crawford posted, “This is the 41st year this event will be help in Kamloops. Bring a table and showcase your group’s involvement with peace, the environment, and social justice. Great music & speakers, children’s activities, and then the walk for peace.”
And Kamloops This Week noted, “This year, organizers have added a competition aimed at students, who can submit a creation that looks at the parade theme through poetry, prose, skits, humour, visual arts, music or any other format. There are four age groups: six to eight, nine to 12, 13 to 16 and older than 16. Group projects will also be accepted. Prizes will be awarded. Floats are also welcome in the parade, but must be powered by something other than fossil fuels, must reflect the theme and they must comply with walk regulations and Council of Canadians guidelines.”
Barbara Nederpel, the emcee and President of the Kamloops and District Labour Council, says that it was the young people that made the day particularly special. “From the First Nations greeting by Jeffrey McNeil, to the incredibly talented musician, Jarrett Doherty, and the increased participation in the walk by so many young adults, it is inspiring to know that the next generation will continue the quest for peace, social justice, and environmental protection.”
The Council of Canadians chapter has hosted the peace walk for the past seventeen years.
