 People from around the Kansas City metro area gathered at the United Nations Peace Plaza in Independence, Missouri, to celebrate the United Nations International Day of Peace on Sunday, September 21 as part of a peace vigil from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. |
 “Eyes Wide Open,” an American Friends Service Committee exhibit, helped raise awareness of the human cost of war. It features combat boots, each pair with the name of a Missouri soldier who died in the Iraq War; and shoes memorializing civilian deaths. |
 A prayer for peace was offered every hour when a new peace candle was lit. |
 A young bell choir was among the music that was shared. |
 Lewis Diuguid, Vice President and columnist for The Kansas City Star, addressed attendees in the afternoon. |
 The Independence Peace Vigil was sponsored by Community of Christ. The church's mission is to proclaim Jesus Christ and promote communities of joy, hope, love, and peace. |