COVENTRY’S annual peace festival is in full swing as a fortnight of events aims to promote Coventry’s unique role as a City of Peace, Reconciliation and Equality.
The two-week festival is a chance to promote peace and understanding between the many faiths, cultures and communities that flourish within Coventry.
Though many of the events take place between the start of the month and Monday (November 14), other events will run until the end of November.
Film screenings, talks, craft workshops, poetry and debates are all set to inspire residents as the city’s attitude to peace is re-enhanced.
Hundreds of people are also expected to turn out to the annual Remembrance Sunday Service and Parade at the War Memorial Park on Sunday (November 13).
Coun Abdul Khan, cabinet member for culture, leisure, sports, parks and events, said the peace festival helps to promote Coventry’s part in the peace agenda.
He said: “This fortnight of events will encourage people to engage in the whole issue of peace and understanding in modern Britain.
“There are a many people promoting peace all year round in the city and this festival is about celebrating the work they do.
“Many people put a lot of time and effort into the festival and it is great to see there are so many things to enjoy and participate in during the festival.
“I am sure festival visitors will be able to find something in the programme of interest and people take the opportunity to find out more about the importance of bringing communities together.”
Highlights of the Coventry Peace Festival include a guest appearance from children’s writer Michael Morpurgo, who will give the Lord Mayor’s Annual Peace Lecture on Friday (November 11) night at St Mary’s Guildhall.
Based on his latest book ‘An Eagle in the Snow’ the talk will discuss the various local servicemen featured in the story.
Two film screenings will also be part of the festival as St Michael’s House broadcasts ‘Black Christmas’ from 1pm on Thursday (November 3) and the Canal Basin will be host of The Tin at the Coal Vaults on Wednesday (November 9) at 7pm.
Based on the true story of musicians in Mali losing music – their most important form of communication – The Tin at the Coal Vaults reveals how Islamic Extremists captured an area the size of the UK and France combined.
Director Johanna Schwartz will be taking part in a special Q&A session following the film.
There will also be a poppy drop in West Orchards Shopping Centre, a Remembrance Concert in Coventry Cathedral and radio stations HillzFM and Radio Plus will broadcast their Annual Peace Pilgrimage.
Visit www.coventry.gov.uk/peace for a full list of events and a downloadable copy of the Coventry Peace Festival 2016 brochure.
