In this year of the 80th anniversary of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki atomic bombs, and with the world in turmoil, it is so important that we celebrate peace and show our desire for discussion and negotiation rather than violence.
Peace Education Scotland (charity #SC046853) is working with the Lord Provost's office and the management of the Botanics to create a Peace Garden which will involve local children. Fifty children from local primary schools have already heard about the gingko bilboa seeds that the Botanics have nurtured into saplings. The seeds came from one of the few trees to survive in Hiroshima. They have been sent to cities all over the world by the Mayors for Peace organisation to remind people of the horrors of war and to encourage discussion of peace and diplomacy.
At the heart of this Garden will be a series of creative projects involving local children - because they are the ones who will shape tomorrow's world:
Poetry Workshops – The children will be invited to write poems that explore themes of peace, hope, and unity. Their words will be featured in the Garden as a constant reminder that the voices of the next generation matter. A poet will tutor the children in writing haikus.
Painting & Visual Arts – The children will create paintings that represent peace, love, and the beauty of our shared world. These artworks will be displayed at the launch of the Garden for all to see.
Stories – The children are coming together to create stories of peace, resilience, and the importance of understanding each other’s perspectives. These stories will be shared, ensuring that the voices of young storytellers are heard across generations.
Ceramics – A local potter will teach the children how to make ceramic cranes, symbols of peace, which will be hung in the Garden as a permanent link to the children's efforts.
How You Can Help
We are seeking your generous support to make this happen. Help is needed to purchase materials, to pay expenses and to pay for the tutors needed for the activities. Please give what you can to help us. We need £2200.
The opening of the Peace Garden will be on the 6th June 2025. As well as the children's contributions there will be Japanese drumming and other music.
On the 6th of August, the formal launch will be led by Lord Provost Jacqueline McLaren.
Come along - everyone is welcome! See Peace Education Scotland News for the starting time, nearer the date.