Mothers and Others for Peace

Celebrated the second Sunday each May (this year on May 8), Mother’s Day was first proposed by abolitionist and poet Julia Ward Howe. In her 1872 “Mother’s Day Proclamation,” Howe suggested that people observe Mother’s Day as a day dedicated to peace and supported the importance of coming together during challenging times.

In honor of these early roots, each May the local grassroots group Mothers and Others for Peace explores the history and commitment of women working for peace.

Want to learn more about this annual day honoring motherhood? Log in to World Book Student with your Oak Park library card and PIN, and search for “Mother’s Day.” And below, take part in a circle and check out titles about peace, selected by your Oak Park librarians.

Join us for an interactive introduction to circles

The Circle Process: Creating Deep Conversations

Friday, May 6, 2:30-4 pm, Main Library Veterans Room. In collaboration with Mothers and Others for Peace, Restorative Justice Practitioner and Oak Park Public Library Director of Equity and Anti-Racism Stephen Jackson will facilitate this interactive introduction to how circles can become part of our families, schools, workplaces, and communities. Everyone will be able to take part in a circle. Sponsored by the League of Women Voters of Oak Park and River Forest. Register now »

About circles
Circles are a structured process to build community where everyone feels connected and respected in their authentic selves. Led by library staff who are certified facilitators, we come together to explore a subject by asking a series of questions and providing all with an equal opportunity to share, listen to one another, and reflect on the importance to their own lives. Circles, as we practice them, are rooted in the traditional practices of Indigenous cultures in North America.

Browse title suggestions for all ages