As guest editor, I could not be more pleased with both the quantity and quality of the submissions for this issue! “Teaching peace” resonated with so many people, including members and Board members of PJSA, students, scholars, and activists. Included in this issue are articles focused on research, teaching, and activism. Entries range in length and include everything from more formal, journal-style submissions to teacher’s lessons, reflective essays, poetry and unique art. Contributors are from many different countries, disciplinary backgrounds, and walks of life.
We’ve arranged the submissions in the way that we felt made the most sense. Those addressing the foundations and principles of peace education are at the beginning, followed by lessons for teaching peace. Reflections by students are next, then more activist-focused entries. The issue concludes with four beautiful poems. Some entries include relevant images and interspersed throughout are creative photos and amazing art relevant to the issue’s theme.
I wish to thank Wim Laven, Editor in Chief of The Peace Chronicle, for the opportunity to guest edit and for his unwavering efforts to make this magazine truly wonderful. Thanks also to Gabriel Ertsgaard, Interviews Editor, Julia Skeen, an intern who assisted in soliciting art, and the utmost gratitude to Emma Lovejoy, Production Manager, who takes all the submissions and makes them into a beautiful and readable magazine. I take responsibility for any errors in the issue.
A word on the cover art: “The Kiss” is a custom sketch by Art of Gis. It reflects the joy of motherhood and the hope for teaching peace to the youngest among us. Other work by Art of Gis is included herein. Art of Gis showcases the talents of Gisbert Heuer, a native of Germany who is now based in South Florida. A classically trained vocal performer, vocal teacher and actor, Gisbert began sketching during the start of the coronavirus pandemic. His work is available for purchase, and he also makes custom sketches on request. He can be reached at 954.326.7239 or look for Art of Gis on Facebook.