THUNDER BAY -- World peace is the highest aspiration of all.
Dozens of people gathered at the city's waterfront on Saturday on the high ground above a line of waving state flags for the Peace Pole's annual dedication.Erected in 2013, the pole's message in English, French and Ojibway reads, "May peace prevail on Earth."
In solidarity with the United Nations' Day of Peace on Sept. 21, it was among the celebrations to honour the 200,000 peace poles all over the globe.
"Together, we must unite in a common goal: peace, world peace," said Coun. Frank Pulia, speaking on behalf of the city.
"We must pledge to continue raising awareness, standing up for what is right. It starts with the principle of respect and it starts with you and me."
"We, as a city, have made great strides implementing the 'Respect' initiatve in our community but more remains to be done." 
Rotarian and chair of the Peace Day Committee, Irene Sottile said spreading peace begins with the smallest of actions and the youngest of people.
"Starting at a young age, they can see little ways they can make a tremendous tsunami effect all over the world by being kind and gentle and spreading peace," she said.
"Especially this year with the Syrian crisis, it's prominent every day on TV and we've seen how thousands of refugees ahve been flooding into Europe. We can promote peace in many ways, be it small or large, in our communities such as smiling at people, encouraging people.
"There are many little ways of creating peace."
