UNION - The Women's Federation for World Peace International (WFWPI), United Nations Relations New York, this weekend robustly proclaimed and celebrated the United Nations International Day of Peace at Kean University.

Organized at the STEM Building on behalf of Always Forward in collaboration with the Federation, “Act Now for a More Peaceful World,” featured numerous interactive activities, a panel discussion with elected officials (including state Senator Joe Cryan), diplomats, and youth, a Bridge of Peace, cultural performances, and an art exhibition commemorating peace.

During the commemoration, a cohort of distinguished global ambassadors representing diverse regions received honors (see picture, bottom) for their community leadership, advocacy, and commitment to promoting peace within their local communities.

Merly Barlaan presided at the event for WFWPI. A peace and environment advocate, she serves as the Chief Administrative Officer at WFWPI Corporate HQ in New York, the Director of the WFWPI Office for UN Relations, and International Vice President at Women's Federation for World Peace International. With 27 years of experience in WFWPI and the UN civil society community, she has led numerous initiatives promoting peace, sustainability, and empowerment, with a focus on women and youth leadership.

Union resident Priscilla Garces of Always Forward, UN Representative for WFWPI, (pictured, top) also organized.

"The purpose of the event was to highlight the importance of taking action to achieve peace, because even a small action can make a big difference," she told InsiderNJ. "When we collectively unite and work together through the accomplishment of actions, we can achieve a more peaceful world. As a global ambassador for peace, I joined in the commemoration of the international day by spearheading this forum with a goal of promoting awareness about the crucial importance of action."

A disability advocate/activist, climate reality leader and mentor, Garces ran for the School Board in Newark. She holds a Master’s Degree in nonprofit leadership from Fordham University and a translator certification from New York University. She uniquely occupies a space of local concern with global vision.

"Start locally to advance globally," she said. "If society wants to achieve peace, it starts with the family. It starts with civilized dialogue. It starts with parents advocating for their children. 'I want my child to have a good education.' It starts there and connects to the idea of what is possible.

"One of the most important things to know is what a community can do to act for peace, which is to act now for peace. Radiate peace within to better listen, understand, and respect the knowledge others bring. Seek and create civilized debates in a safe space."

Garces added:

"The message for the young people out there, with the cohort of global ambassadors we have, is they are the present of the future, the ones who will forge peace. Everybody is born with a mission."