PEORIA ( 25News Now ) - Residents gathered at the Peoria Riverfront Sunday to put aside political differences and share a moment of silence to mark the International Day of Peace.

The United Nations created the International Day of Peace in 1981. It’s meant to spread a message promoting peace worldwide even as wars rage in the Middle East and Europe.

About two dozen people participated in the minute of silence.

Peoria Public Schools Director of Security, Chief Demario Boone, spoke at Sunday’s gathering.

Peoria Resident Tara Wood said the International Day of Peace is a time to show that unity can rise above political differences in a world filled in uncertain times.

“It’s perfect timing to come together and see each other face to face, see each other and our humanity,” she said.

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