Freeport Schools’ 15th Annual Freeport Cares Peace March Embraces Harmony, Unity and Community Spirit
On Saturday, May 4, under the warm sun and gentle breeze of a nearly perfect spring day at the Freeport High School athletic field, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kishore Kuncham, Board of Education President Maria Jordan-Awalom, board trustee Sonia A. Dixon, administrators, teachers, staff, students, local dignitaries including Legislator Seth Koslow, Councilman Chris Carini, former Assemblywoman Judy Griffin , Assemblywoman Taylor Darling, Legislator Siela Bynoe and community members gathered for the 15th annual Freeport Cares Peace March.
“Today we gather united in our commitment to peace. In these times when the world often feels divided, our march stands as a vibrant testament to what we can achieve together – harmony, understanding and mutual respect,” Dr. Kuncham said. “Each step we take is a step toward a vision that binds us: a world where peace prevails over conflict, and kindness overcomes division. As we walk together today, let us remember that peace begins with each of us. Your presence here is a powerful message to our community, our country and to the world. Together we are unstoppable and we can make every day a march toward a more peaceful tomorrow. Peace is possible and it starts with each of us.”
Under the direction of Ms. Stephanie Arnell, the Caroline G. Atkinson Intermediate School fifth grade chorus took the stage. Singing the piece, “There Has to Be a Song,” the chorus moved the audience with the song’s inspiring message sharing how music can improve one’s quality of life.
Ms. Jordan-Awalom addressed those in attendance saying, “Together we can amplify our voices, inspiring positive change in our communities and beyond. Let us move forward with compassion, empathy and a shared commitment to creating a more harmonious world. Let us not underestimate the significance of our youth. I urge that we march toward a better future for all, spreading kindness love and understanding every step of the way.”
Several elected officials and local dignitaries thanked the Peace March participants for helping to promote peace in the Freeport community and beyond.
Proudly wearing yellow to promote peace, wellness and nonviolence locally, nationally and globally, all those in attendance created a human peace sign prior to taking the first steps of this year’s peace march through the Village of Freeport.
The annual Freeport Cares Peace March is a combined school district and community event honoring the commitment to fostering unity within the Freeport community and globally.