Peace Initiative News: Peace Was Full On at DisCon ‘26

Peace as a core Area of Focus ran through every corner of the 2026 District Conference in Eugene — keynotes, breakout sessions, and the grounds outside. Here’s what to take away:

• A Peace Pole dedication was held at the Nobel Peace Park in Eugene. The city’s mayor, DG Chris Waugh, Youth Exchange Students, and Rotarians from across the district were present. Mike Hewitt, District Peace Pole Chair from Port Orford, conducted the ceremony. Local media covered it.
• Keynote speaker Al Jubitz, founder of the Rotary Action Group for Peace, outlined the Oregon Peace Trail, set to launch in 2027. It follows the Oregon Coast Trail and is designed as a destination pilgrimage. oregonpeacetrail.org
• The Peace Trail is built on the Peace Game — seven peace practices that move individuals toward becoming peacemakers. Participants take Peace Actions in daily life. Over 85,000 have already completed the 9-week series. Clubs are encouraged to facilitate the game with their members.  The next online Peace Game for Rotarians is Sept September 22 to November 17, Tuesday 4:30 to 6 pm PT.
• Mike Hewitt demonstrated live Peace Pole making at the conference, producing 15 poles on site for district clubs.

Peace Game Action:  Unity.  “Look for people and situations where you have opportunities to befriend another. Decide which people you wish to befriend and what you will say to each person.”