Introducing VCWA’s 2025 International Day of Peace Theme
As the world faces deepening polarization and shifting power dynamics, our ability to engage across differences has never been more crucial. In this climate of division and uncertainty, the Vermont Council on World Affairs invites you to join us on September 24th for a full-day summit, titled Building Bridges in a Fractured World, to explore how civil discourse can serve as a powerful force for peace and a counter to the forces driving us apart.
This summit will examine:
This summit is designed as a platform to get informed about today’s most pressing global challenges and discover concrete ways to stay engaged in the democratic process. Through distinguished voices in peacebuilding, diplomacy, and human rights, attendees will explore how informed participation and respectful dialogue can foster understanding, build trust, and strengthen communities.
This is how democracies grow resilient, through citizens who understand the stakes and know how to engage constructively across differences. Attendees will leave the summit equipped with tools to bridge divides, both locally and globally.
International Day of Peace
Established in 1981 by unanimous United Nations resolution, International Day of Peace represents a globally shared day for all humanity to commit to building a culture of peace in communities around the world. The Vermont Council on World Affairs is excited to once again celebrate International Day of Peace with programming focused on this important topic.
What to expect at this summit
Each year at our International Day of Peace summit, we honor an individual who, in VCWA's view, embodies the qualities inherent in promoting international understanding and building ties between the US and the world with our Person of the Year Award.
Schedule and Pricing
Building Bridges in a
Fractured World
11:00 am - 5:00 pm | Hula Lakeside
Followed by an evening networking reception
With a keynote address and sessions on civil discourse, the evolving role of international development, and an in-depth look at the causes of genocide.
Tickets:
Full-day: $125
Special pricing for VCWA Members - email elizabeth@vcwa.org for more information
Full-day tickets include lunch, exclusive networking opportunities, admission to the VIP evening reception with complimentary drinks and hors d’oeuvres.
Agenda
Summit Overview
In an era of growing division and misinformation, civil discourse is a vital tool for preventing and resolving conflict. This session will explore how open, respectful dialogue can bridge cultural and ideological divides, build trust, and foster lasting peace. It will also examine the role of media in shaping public perception, the impact of misinformation on polarization, and strategies individuals and organizations can use to promote fact-based, constructive conversations.
Session 1:
From Conflict to Connection: Discourse as a Peace Tool
Jim Welch | Journalist; Former Editor in Chief, VTDigger
Speakers:
Christina Barsky | Associate Professor; Director, Master of Public Administration (MPA) Program, University of Vermont
For decades, USAID has been a cornerstone of U.S. foreign policy, using development aid to prevent conflict, stabilize societies, and expand American influence. However, dramatic funding cuts are leaving a gap that global competitors are quick to fill. China now outspends the U.S. 4:1 on development and citizen diplomacy, expanding its reach, while other nations have adopted the U.S. soft power playbook to strengthen their geopolitical standing. This session will explore the consequences of these shifts - how reduced U.S. engagement impacts global stability, who is stepping in to fill the void, and what it means for the future of American influence.
Session 2:
Power and Presence: What Happens When the U.S. Steps Back
Speakers:
Courtney Chubb | Development Expert
Session 3:
In predominantly white spaces like Vermont, fostering inclusivity requires intentional effort, self-reflection, and action. This session, presented in partnership with Bellwether International and World Affairs Councils of America, will examine the concept of “other-ness” and how systemic barriers prevent equitable representation. This panel will explore how racism fuels larger-scale injustices, including genocide, the importance of early intervention to prevent such atrocities, and the role administrations may play in these challenges.
The Other-ing Effect: Preventing Hate Through Inclusion
Speakers:
Rachel Miner | Founder, Bellwether International
Paul Suk-Hyun Yoon | Chief Culture and Compliance Officer, Vermont State University
Garrett Graff | Journalist, Historian
Sarwar Kashmeri | Host, Polaris-Live.com; Senior Fellow, Foreign Policy Association; Applied Research Fellow, Peace & War Center, Norwich University
Thank you to our sponsors
Interested in sponsoring this event?
Email elizabeth@vcwa.org for more information