Jerusalem, Israel - The UN International Day of Peace event was held in the Jerusalem Forest, a picturesque area of the city across from Yad Vashem, the Holocaust memorial museum. The event was prepared by the Youth Federation for World Peace, UPF-Israel, and the Native American Leadership Alliance.

Dr. Shuki Ben Ami, director of the Native American Leadership Alliance in Israel, conducted a traditional peace ceremony around a special campfire. Over 50 people gathered, including a number of Ambassadors for Peace from different cities representing the various faith traditions. Prayers and songs were offered for peace in the Middle East as well as the entire world.

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The UPF Peace Declaration was read by Jeremy Jordan, director of communications for UPF-Israel, and many of those present applauded it and signed it. The event continued into the night. Guitar and drums were played, refreshments were served, and a peace pipe was shared.

To read UPF's Declaration on the International Day of Peace 2009, click here.