On Thursday 20th February the Liverpool Beatles Museum hosted an evening event to open the Children’s Peace Wall to the public for the first time. From 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm, visitors had the chance to see this charming collection of children’s artwork promoting peace.
Before the Peace Wall was unveiled, Museum Ambassador Tim Quinn gave a thoughtful presentation where he spoke about Liverpool’s recent history with war and how it has impacted his own life and his family’s. His words were a gentle reminder of why promoting peace is so important, setting the tone perfectly for what the exhibit represents.
Adding to the atmosphere, there was a lively performance of ‘Give Peace a Chance,’ with kids joining in to sing along – a reminder of how the project also echoes the spirit of John Lennon and Yoko Ono’s 1969 peace campaign when they sent acorns to world leaders, encouraging them to plant for peace.
The Peace Wall was Tim’s idea, sparked by his concern over the constant talk of war from politicians. He objected to the sentiment that we need to “prepare for war” and instead wanted to spread the message that we should be willing to “prepare for peace!”. With the help of the Liverpool Beatles Museum and children’s charity Liverpool Heartbeat, Tim invited children from Liverpool and beyond to share their messages of peace through art. The response was fantastic. Kids from all over the world sent in their posters, and now those creations can be seen on display in our newly unveiled Peace Wall. The display is a reminder of how clear and hopeful children’s voices can be.
The children’s artwork will be put together in a book by Liverpool Heartbeat, with the hope of sending it to world leaders. It’s a gesture that aims to share the young generation’s perspective on peace and remind leaders that no children want war, no matter where they’re from.
If you couldn’t make it to the event, the Children’s Peace Wall is now a permanent feature at the Liverpool Beatles Museum on Mathew Street.