North Chicago to Commemorate International Day of Peace

Mayor Leon Rockingham, Jr. recently issued a Mayoral Proclamation recognizing the International Day of Peace, observed annually on September 21. Established by the United Nations, the International Day of Peace promotes peace among all nations and peoples through a global commitment to nonviolence, ceasefires, and the peaceful resolution of conflict.

The 2026 International Day of Peace theme, “Invest in Peace – For Everyone, Everywhere, Every Day,” reminds us that peace is not simply the absence of violence, but the presence of opportunity, justice, compassion, dignity, collaboration, and hope within every community.

The City of North Chicago will commemorate the International Day of Peace with a "Bring Peace to Our Streets–Walk for Peace" throughout the city. Mayor Rockingham encourages all residents, businesses, schools, community organizations, healthcare providers, faith-based organizations, neighborhood groups, and public agencies to participate in activities that promote peace, support a 24-hour period of non-violence and ceasefire, strengthen community partnerships, and reaffirm our collective commitment to building safer, healthier, and more united communities.

“Let this day serve as a reminder that peace is everyone’s responsibility. By investing in peace today, we invest in a brighter future for everyone, everywhere, every day,” Mayor Rockingham stated in the Proclamation.

In North Chicago and beyond, every resident deserves to live, learn, work, worship, and play in neighborhoods that are safe, welcoming, and free from violence. Unfortunately, gun violence continues to impact individuals, families, and neighborhoods throughout Lake County, with communities such as Waukegan, North Chicago, and Zion experiencing a disproportionate share of its effects.

In response, local organizations, community leaders, public safety agencies, educators, healthcare professionals, faith communities, businesses, and residents continue to work together to build safer and healthier communities. Together, they remain committed to investing in programs and initiatives that promote peace, strengthen families and neighborhoods, and create opportunities for young people and residents to thrive.

“Meaningful and lasting change requires collective action, prevention, mentorship, education, investment in youth, community engagement, trauma-informed support, and opportunities that strengthen families and neighborhoods,” Mayor Rockingham said.

The “Bring Peace to Our Streets – Walk for Peace” will serve as a visible demonstration of North Chicago’s commitment to unity, healing, resilience, and the global observance of a 24-hour period of nonviolence and ceasefire. True peace begins with each individual and grows stronger when entire communities choose to work together with respect, compassion, and a shared commitment to one another.