Sheridan unveils Peace Tree at its Brampton Campus

On the occasion of the United Nations’ International Day of Peace, Sheridan unveiled the first permanent outdoor Peace Tree installation in Canada on September 21.  The event was attended by Mitra Sen, Director and Founder of Peace Tree International, Regional and City Councillor Martin Medeiros, and Sheridan employees and students.

“Here in Canada we are lucky to live mostly peaceful lives but there are many people who attend and work at Sheridan who have come here from places where there isn’t peace,” said Dr. Jeff Zabudsky, Sheridan’s President and Vice Chancellor. “The Peace Tree symbolizes Sheridan’s recognition of the importance of community, tolerance, and diversity. Its location offers a place for reflection on our Davis Campus.”

The Peace Tree initiative was conceived by Mitra Sen, an award-winning filmmaker and a teacher with the Toronto District School Board, who produces, writes and directs socially relevant dramatic films that promote intercultural/interfaith unity, diversity, and peace through the spirit of young people. Sen founded Peace Tree International in 2006 as a non-profit organization that inspires and empowers children and youth to discover their talent and utilize their passion in order to create inclusive, equitable and peaceful schools and communities. 

“The Peace Tree here at Sheridan is a reminder to every visitor, student, staff, that we are together,” said Sen. “It represents the Canadian spirit of diversity and inclusion.”

Sheridan’s Peace Tree was created with resources and support from the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, the Faculty of Continuing and Professional Studies, and the Faculty and students in the Skilled Trades programs.