Outstretched hands release doves into a serene sky. Today is the International Day of Peace, celebrated on Sept. 21 each year.

ALPENA — Today is the International Day of Peace, a United Nations-sanctioned holiday observed on Sept. 21 each year. It is also known as World Peace Day.

First established in 1981 and first observed in 1982, the holiday is dedicated to world peace and the absence of war and violence.

On the International Day of Peace, the United Nations Peace Bell is rung at UN Headquarters in New York City.

The bell was cast from coins and medals donated by the representatives of Member States, the Pope, and people, including children from over 60 different nations, according to the United Nations website, un.org.

This year’s theme is Actions for Peace: Our Ambition for the #GlobalGoals.

“It is a call to action that recognizes our individual and collective responsibility to foster peace,” the UN website explains. “Fostering peace contributes to the realization of the Sustainable Development Goals and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals will create a culture of peace for all.”

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said, “Peace is needed today more than ever. War and conflict are unleashing devastation, poverty, and hunger, and driving tens of millions of people from their homes. Climate chaos is all around. And even peaceful countries are gripped by gaping inequalities and political polarization.”

In Alpena, a Community Peace Concert is planned for Sunday, Oct. 1 at First United Methodist Church. The free concert will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. at the church, located on the corner of Ripley Boulevard and 1st Avenue at 167 S. Ripley, Alpena.

Everyone is invited to attend the concert, which will feature a variety of local musicians, including the Besser Chorus, Dr. Tom, Mary Ann Hubbard, Charles Madison, Sharon Koperwas, the Alpena High School jazz group, and more.

The concert is organized by Alpena Peace Community, a group of volunteers whose mission is to promote peace.

Alpena Peace Community’s mission statement is: “Believing that Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness are the rights of ALL people, the Alpena Peace Community aims to provide community events that promote goodwill among ALL people.”

A limited number of Alpena Peace Community T-shirts will be available for purchse at the concert. All proceeds will go toward future programming and events.

This is a free concert, but donations are welcome and will be used to assist with future community programs.

For more information, to get involved, or connect, visit Alpena Peace Community on Facebook.