Active hope for a more peaceful world

Transition Margaret River in Australia has had a strong focus this year on peace and active hope.

“Active Hope is different from being hopeful. It is a way of engaging with the world that shapes our choices and actions - to support the future we hope for. And it helps us to overcome feelings of powerlessness or overwhelm which can block us from action.” (Joanna Macy)

We recently held an event Active hope for a more peaceful world in partnership with the Medical Association for Prevention of War. The Theme Pollinating the seeds of Peace carried through presentations and workshops. At that event, our Shire President announced that she is a member of Mayors for Peace. We’re keen on involvement with local arts and creative groups - one highlight of the event was the Witchy Choir singing peace songs, including one specially written by local singer-songwriter Anu Grace to commemorate Joanna Macy.

As an outcome of Active Hope, we are planning a special event by Transition Margaret River in partnership with local Wild Bilya Playback Theatre. This aims to bring together young people, including local Parents for Climate, with older folk to share stories.

Other current projects include fostering Peace Poles in our community. Peace
Poles are recognized as the most prominent international symbol and monument to peace. They remind us to think, speak and act in the spirit of peace and harmony. The first pole will be unveiled with a ceremony at the local Uniting Church in December.

Our peace events over the years have a Facebook page.

Wishing peace for all transition communities everywhere,
Karen Majer
Transition Margaret River