Escalating crime and increasingly random acts of violence have become as enduring a feature of Caribbean life as the sand and sea. While our nations are not officially deemed to be in a state of war, the high incidence of crime and violent acts occasioned by political tribalism, economic turmoil and general social decay give rise to living situations marked by lives led in misery and fear; much like those led by citizens of war-torn countries. Two of our very own Caribbean nations hold the dubious qualification of having one of the higher murder rates in the world!

The International Day of Peace (“Peace Day”) provides an opportunity for individuals, organizations and nations to create practical acts of peace on a shared date. It is also the launch of a yearlong agenda of activities leading up to the launch of the Caribbean Peace Trust Fund.

This Monday, September 21st 2009 radio station across the Caribbean are participating in a non-partisan, non-aligned, non-profit peace effort through a simple and inexpensive gesture. At 12 noon this Peace Day, radio stations throughout the Caribbean will play the same original song advocating peace.

Our hope is that the unity and strength of purpose that this communal listening will provide for those 3 minutes will act as a catalyst, causing individuals to contemplate the role that crime plays in their life and begin playing their part in a renewed effort to reclaim our streets and eradicate crime from our countries.

To find out more about Peace Day and this initiative please go to: www.caribbeanpeaceday.com