MEDIA RELEASE
Tuesday 10 December 2024

3 MINUTES SILENCE FOR GLOBAL PEACE EVENT

This year, observing United Nations Human Rights Day, Today – Tuesday, 10 December, presents a unique opportunity for activism in Adelaide—via a neutral community event.

Everyone is welcome and must feel safe. There will be no speeches (bonus!!) and attendees are asked to respect the strict requirement for no national, partisan, denominational or organisational flags, banners or attire.

The Muriel Matters Society (MMS) is calling the community together to observe 3 Minutes Silence to reflect on the importance of Global Peace at a Peace Rally at Peace Park – Karrawirra/Park12 on Sir Edwin Smith Avenue, North Adelaide (opp. Children’s Hospital), starting at 6.00pm.

“We live in international and domestic turbulent times and are witness to the destructive consequences being endured by those living in war zones and unsettled circumstances,” said Frances Bedford, Secretary of MMS. “We believe every member of every community needs to come together in support of a peaceful world.”

“We will focus on the need for our leaders to remember the wholesale devastation of violent conflict, in order to avoid the same mistakes happening again – and the concept of a world able to work through issues that often seem unresolvable,” Frances said.

“All wars end over the negotiation table, so let’s work in the same way to prevent them.”

A petition to be presented to the SA Legislative Council in the new year will be launched. Ms Bedford said, “10,000 physical signatures will be gathered and hopefully a motion passed through our parliament – perhaps the first of many parliaments worldwide to understand people want diplomacy to triumph as a first – rather than last – measure.”

The motion will recognise the human right of all people to a safe existence and acknowledge the importance of Global Peace, learnt through the devastation of past conflicts.

“At gatherings, we are about to enjoy throughout this holiday season, please ask family and friends to sign the petition to give peace a chance,” Frances added.

Organiser/Media Contact: Frances Bedford – 0437 656 700

Background: Muriel Matters was a committed pacifist who organised a peace conference in England in 1915—before Gallipoli and her brother’s death at Lone Pine in August that year. She was involved with the Women’s International League of Peace and Freedom (WILPF), a group still active in Adelaide and throughout the world today.

The event will last approximately 30 minutes. Download the petition and further information at www.murielmatterssociety.com.au/peace

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