In the fall of 2021, Midland officially became a City of Peace, joining hundreds of other cities around the world that have also claimed the title.
The city has been working towards the designation since January of 2021. The title was finalized when the city council passed a resolution after months of collaboration with the Midland chapter of the Nonviolent Peaceforce.
Over 300 cities around the world share the designation “City of Peace.” The International City of Peace organization hopes to reach 1000 global cities by 2025.
Judy Timmons is a member of the Midland chapter of the Nonviolent peace force.
“This designation means that Midland is committed to building a better and more peaceful community for all who live within the city and the county,” Timmons said. “This community’s vision statement is together, forward, bold. An exceptional place where everyone thrives.”
Gail Hoffman is a member of the Midland chapter of the Nonviolent Peaceforce.
She said as a city of Peace; Midland plans to hold events like anti-bullying training in schools and conflict resolution classes for the community.
“Peacebuilding is much more effective at the community level where the needs are known,” Hoffman said. “Solutions come from collaboration and cooperation between all sectors of society.”
The Dow Chemical Foundation had attempted to show support by giving three grants to the organization to allow for events, collaboration and community interactions. The Peaceforce has maintained and created long-lasting connections with like-minded organizations through these events.
“We’re developing a document called building connections for peacebuilding and broader Midland,” Hoffman said. “A compilation of organizations and coalitions and foundations, partnerships, alliances and educational institutions with which we plan to connect as we move forward.”
Organizers planned to keep September 21st as Midland’s “City of Peace” Day to celebrate the proclamation.
“We are very confident that we have a committed community that will help us support these peace efforts locally, nationally, and around the world,” Hoffman said.