Peace marathon unites children across Lebanon
The children, some as young as six, came from many areas of Lebanon and the Palestinian refugee camps. The children ran as teams of two – one Christian and one Muslim – under the same number. Their place was determined by which of them finished soonest.
“I’m very happy to participate in this marathon,” said Sima Abou Jaoudeh, 10. “This area suffered [because of the] war, but when running on those streets we cannot feel or see that anymore.”
“I ran so that there would be no war anymore and we live altogether happy.” said 6-year-old Jad Chabekshi.
The peace marathon is one of the ways World Vision is striving to build bridges between divided communities by encouraging relationships between children and youth from different backgrounds.
I ran so that there would be no war anymore and we live altogether happy “We always teach our kids about living together and loving each other,” said Ghada Hajjar, mother of one of the children who ran in the marathon. “The best thing about this marathon is that it actually gives a practical example. The participation of everyone from all areas and backgrounds is the biggest motivation.”
Running was not the only item on the agenda. During the day long event, children enjoyed other recreational activities following the marathon like inflatable toys and extreme sports, and were entertained by animators and magicians.
“We all have the same goal, we want to live in peace and raise our children in a safe environment," said Andrew Ghafari, World Vision’s project coordinator. “Children have the power to inspire us, their parents and the leaders.”
In addition to its focus on peace building, World Vision’s work in Beirut strives to meet the education needs of the community. The peace marathon was organised in coordination with the Ministry of Social Affairs and the Municipalities of Ghobayry and Furn El Chebbak.
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“I’m very happy to participate in this marathon,” said Sima Abou Jaoudeh, 10. “This area suffered [because of the] war, but when running on those streets we cannot feel or see that anymore.”
“I ran so that there would be no war anymore and we live altogether happy.” said 6-year-old Jad Chabekshi.
The peace marathon is one of the ways World Vision is striving to build bridges between divided communities by encouraging relationships between children and youth from different backgrounds.
I ran so that there would be no war anymore and we live altogether happy “We always teach our kids about living together and loving each other,” said Ghada Hajjar, mother of one of the children who ran in the marathon. “The best thing about this marathon is that it actually gives a practical example. The participation of everyone from all areas and backgrounds is the biggest motivation.”
Running was not the only item on the agenda. During the day long event, children enjoyed other recreational activities following the marathon like inflatable toys and extreme sports, and were entertained by animators and magicians.
“We all have the same goal, we want to live in peace and raise our children in a safe environment," said Andrew Ghafari, World Vision’s project coordinator. “Children have the power to inspire us, their parents and the leaders.”
In addition to its focus on peace building, World Vision’s work in Beirut strives to meet the education needs of the community. The peace marathon was organised in coordination with the Ministry of Social Affairs and the Municipalities of Ghobayry and Furn El Chebbak.
-Ends-
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