Blue Scarf Peace Walk 2026
Walking Together for Peace Under One Blue Sky
On Sunday, September 20, 2026, Mary Ward Centre hosted the Blue Scarf Peace Walk in recognition of the International Day of Peace, bringing together people from different backgrounds, faith traditions, and communities to reflect on peace and take action for a more peaceful world.
The event was inspired by the Blue Scarf Movement, which began with the Afghan Peace Volunteers in Kabul. Their vision—“A border-free world, without war, under one blue sky”—continues to inspire people around the world. The blue scarf has become a simple and powerful symbol of choosing peace and standing in solidarity with people affected by conflict.
From Stories to Solidarity
The gathering included a panel featuring three important perspectives. Shakeela Muhammed Ewaz, an Afghan storyteller, advocate, and community volunteer, shared her experience of displacement and her commitment to education and human rights. Mansoor Hussaini, a University of Toronto student and member of the Afghan Peace Volunteers since 2015, spoke from his experience of working for peace, education, and community empowerment. Fr. Bob Holmes, a member of Community Peacemaker Teams, shared his experience of peacebuilding and his role in bringing the Blue Scarf Movement from Kabul to Toronto.
The stories reminded participants that peace is not simply an idea or slogan. It is connected to real people, real experiences, and the courage to continue believing in peace even in the midst of conflict.
Blue scarf workshop 2026 - Speakers
Walking for Peace
Following the panel and conversation, participants put on their blue scarves and walked together toward Queen’s Park that ended in a short prayer for peace.
The walk provided an opportunity to move from listening to action. People of different ages, cultures, and faiths walked side by side, making peace visible in the streets of Toronto.
The Blue Scarf offered a simple message that anyone could carry:
“I choose peace.”
From Peace to Action
A central theme of the event was that a peace walk should not end when the walking stops. Participants were invited to consider what they could do after the event to continue building peace in their own relationships and communities.
The event also highlighted the 1000 Women + Peace / Care Not Warfare campaign and encouraged participants to support its call to reduce military spending and invest in peace and care.
The slide presentation also highlighted support for Afghan children's education and the work of the Hazara Women Organization, connecting the Peace Walk with practical forms of solidarity and community action.
Carrying the Blue Scarf Forward
The Blue Scarf Peace Walk demonstrated how a simple symbol can connect people across borders and communities.
The blue scarf began with young Afghan Peace Volunteers in Kabul, but its message has travelled far beyond Afghanistan. In Toronto, it brought people together to listen, walk, reflect, and consider what peace can look like in everyday life.
As we marked the International Day of Peace, participants were invited to continue the journey by showing up, listening to others, wearing the blue, and taking one concrete action for peace.
The walk may have ended at Queen’s Park, but the message continues:
A border-free world, without war, under one blue sky.
Peace begins with a choice—and each of us can choose to take the next step.
