UN Day of Families in Glasgow, Scotland

In order to commemorate and celebrate the United Nations International Day of Families, Glasgow Peace Federation, an affiliate of the Universal Peace Federation, had a meeting in the Hall of St. Peter’s Church in Glasgow’s historic Partick burgh on Saturday 17th May 2014 . The event drew around 20 people of all ages and backgrounds on a Cup final afternoon. The first hour consisted of sharing over food, most of which was home prepared, as old friends renewed acquaintances and new bonds were made among public minded folk active in peace and interfaith activities locally. There were then two presentations centered on the theme of “Understanding the Value of Families” First young A. McCluskey gave a report of her 4 week visit to Nigeria where she and a group of British and Nigerian young people built a new school building using donated materials to ease overcrowding in a primary school there. She explained clearly using slides and pictures how the activity was like extending your family relationships. It was inspiring for all to see the commitment and hard work of these young people creating a substantial improvement in people’s lives in challenging circumstances. Angelle also talked about her Spanish “sister” that she met through a school language study programme and her Scottish and Filipino families and how their values keep her going and aspire her to greater challenges, Angelle has Scots Dad and Filipina Mum. Ann Breslin, the Chair-person of Glasgow Peace Federation, gave a presentation on the core values of the Universal Peace Federation based on the idea that the family should be the first school of love to raise children to becoming public minded citizens with good values. Despite the video projector cut out before the end of the presentation but it was still a spirited and inspiring talk. Everyone enjoyed the occasion, there was much sharing and discussion and a resolve to have more like minded activities. The meeting ended with everyone singing “Auld Lang Syne” in a circle. A Big Thank You to all who took part and all those working behind the scenes to make the event an inspiring afternoon!