'Peace Begins Right Here': Buffalo Grove Rotary Dedicates Monument

BUFFALO GROVE, IL — A new monument at Ernie Karge Rotary Village Green carries one wish in 12 languages: "May Peace Prevail On Earth."

The Rotary Club of Buffalo Grove dedicated the Peace Pole on Sept. 24, celebrating its commitment to peace, unity and understanding among people of different backgrounds.

"The Peace Pole we dedicate today carries a simple wish and will stand in the center of our community as a reminder to every person that walks by it that peace begins right here, at home," Rotary Club President Jason Davis said.

The monument stands at the park, 265 N. Buffalo Grove Road, as a reminder of the importance of building connections across cultures, ethnicities and communities, according to a release from the club.

Village President Eric Smith said the message extends beyond the monument itself.

"This pole is simple in form, but powerful in meaning," Smith said. "Its message reminds us that peace begins not only in distant places, but how we treat one another here at home."

"This peace pole will stand as a lasting symbol of our shared hope that we will continue to build a welcoming, compassionate, and peaceful Buffalo Grove for every resident and every generation to come," he said.

As Patch reported ahead of the dedication, the monument is intended to promote unity while supporting Rotary's broader goal of encouraging a culture of peace.

Peace Poles originated after World War II and have spread around the world, according to the club. Their shared message encourages people to reflect on the hope for a more peaceful world.

Founded in 1974, the Rotary Club of Buffalo Grove supports local charities and projects, including hunger relief, school and safety programs, and park improvements. Its work also includes student exchanges and international service projects.

More information about the club is available at bgrotary.org.

Past Coverage:

• Buffalo Grove Rotary To Dedicate New Peace Pole Monument