The Peace Pole at SMCC: A Beacon of Hope
If you’ve ever strolled past the SMCC Oceanview Dining Hall, with its scenic views of Willard Beach, you might have noticed something special: a simple wooden pole standing beside the Settler’s Cemetery wall. Adorning its sides, in eight different languages, is a powerful message: “May Peace Prevail On Earth.”
History of The Peace Pole Project
A Peace Pole is a symbol born from a profound desire for global harmony. The concept was created by Japanese peace activist Masahisa Goi and his community in the aftermath of World War II’s nuclear devastation in Japan. The sole aim was to consistently put the phrase “May Peace Prevail On Earth” before people, a reminder to foster the ideal of peace.
What started with individuals and groups “planting” cedar poles inscribed with this universal wish has grown into a worldwide movement. Today, over 250,000 Peace Poles around the world stand as testaments to this enduring hope for a more peaceful world.
How to Get Involved
The Peace Pole at SMCC is a living symbol of a vital ideal. To keep this ideal strong and visible, the Peace Pole needs care and attention.
Visit
Take a moment to visit the Peace Pole near the SMCC Oceanview Dining Hall and spend some time in quiet reflection.
History of the Peace Pole at SMCC
The Peace Pole at SMCC was planted in the Spring of 1987 by a group of citizens, college staff and students involved in producing a 10-part Community Television series called “Quest for Peace” at the nearby former Spring Point Community TV Center (now the SMCC Communications Department).
The series explored the issue of Nuclear Proliferation in the late 1980s and involved in-studio round table discussions with a wide variety of community leaders and politicians, as well as live call-in segments from members of the public.
Want to Learn More?
Email Randy Visser: randyvisser@me.com.