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A celebration, every September of the positive impact travel has on peace building.
Join a Global Movement for Unity and Understanding
At HI we believe that exploration and travel lead to a better understanding of other cultures, and in turn, this creates a peaceful, smarter, and more tolerant world. As such we believe it is important to promote tolerance and peace by celebrating the UN’s International Day of Peace through our Say HI! for Peace campaign, a vibrant and inspiring initiative that brings people together from all corners of the globe. Every September, HI hostels worldwide unite to celebrate peace, foster intercultural dialogue, and create a culture of understanding through a diverse range of events and activities.
A History Rooted in Unity
Say HI! for Peace was born from a powerful initiative by our member HI USA in 2013, in response to the tragic events of the Boston Marathon bombing. At that time the original creators wanted to take a stand for peace, with the belief that the unique interactions that take place in hostels pave an indestructible path towards peace, and honour the spirit of resilience and solidarity of humanity by bringing people together to share experiences and build connections across borders. What started as a local initiative has now blossomed into a global campaign, engaging travellers and communities in more than 30 countries through the participation of most of our member associations and the support of the UNWTO.
Why do we organise “Say HI for Peace”?
We believe in the transformative power of travel. We offer offer safe, quality environments that are ideal places to connect people from diverse backgrounds and promote understanding through meaningful interactions that create connections that can last a lifetime. Our “Say HI for Peace” campaign aligns perfectly with our commitment to creating a world where every traveller can explore freely and respectfully. By staying in one of our hostels, you’re not just visiting new places—you’re becoming part of a global community that values intercultural exchange and promotes peace.
Joining Forces with the UN for Global Peace
“Say HI for Peace” is proudly aligned with the United Nations’ International Day of Peace, celebrated annually on 21st September. This year’s theme, “Cultivating a Culture of Peace,” highlights the importance of nurturing peace through education, empathy, and cultural appreciation. Our campaign is dedicated to promoting these values and inspiring travellers to be ambassadors of peace wherever they go.
What We Do
Throughout September, HI hostels across the globe host a variety of exciting events and activities designed to engage and inspire. From peace-walks and artistic creations to community fundraising and a musical Playlist for Peace, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. This year, with the aid of our German member association DJH, we’re even attempting to break a world record at our World Conference in Berlin… for the longest BBQ stick bread ! This typical activity often organised in German hostels, will unite more than 50 people from all over the world who will bake and break bread together in a symbolic act of unity.
Explore Our Global Events
Check out the interactive map below to discover events and activities happening at HI hostels near you. Join us in celebrating peace however you see fit if you too believe that hostels play an important role in promoting cultural diversity and fostering intercultural exchanges that can lead to global dialogue, thus preventing conflict and sowing seeds of tolerance far and wide. Let’s spread a powerful message of peace and unity, working together to create a better, more understanding world—one “Hi!” at a time.
Join the Movement
This September let’s embrace the diversity that makes our world so rich and learn from the people we meet along the way.
Participate in the “Say HI for Peace” campaign, even if it’s just by spreading the word : use our official hashtag #sayhiforpeace when you post photos of your travels online. Remember that when you travel, you’re not just visiting new places or being a tourist – you’re breaking down cultural barriers, broadening your horizons and becoming part of a community of humans that value peace and intercultural exchange.
Together, we can cultivate a culture of peace through travel!
Contact information:
Tiffany Alleron, Social Impact Senior Executive, talleron [at] news.hihostels.com
