Glasgow school children perform peace play in Scottish Parliament
Pupils from Glasgow's Oakgrove Primary School performed their own version of “Wangari's Trees of Peace" at Holyrood on Peace Day, Thursday, 21 September.
Other MSPs were encouraged to sign MSP Michelle Thomson's motion in support of peace education in Scottish schools, as a means of reaching the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Peace education has been high on the agenda in Scotland since the release of Quaker report Peace at the Heart: a relational approach to education in British schools last year.
MSP Paul McLennan brought a motion before the Scottish Parliament last June, noting the publication of the report and recognizing “the importance of equipping all learners with the skills and knowledge to promote a culture of peace and non-violence."
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When we plant trees, we plant the seeds of peace and seeds of hope.
- Wangari Maathai
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The musical and dance performance was developed by pupils with the help of Quaker storyteller and musician Mary Troup.
It tells the story of Kenyan environmentalist Wangari Maathai, who famously said: “When we plant trees, we plant the seeds of peace and seeds of hope. We also secure the future for our children."
Mary Troup said: “The children were interested in knowing how you tell stories with stories. I wanted to find a story that combined issues to do with climate justice and peace."
Oakgrove Primary pupil Judy said: “She was the first African woman to be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. So, I think it was really good it was someone of her gender and her heritage making a stand."
A new exhibition 'Peace at the Heart of Scottish Schools' is on display at Holyrood for three days before touring schools and community venues, gathering and sharing ideas on how to build peace.