Earth Day is Celebrated at Berkshire South, Great Barrington, Massachusetts, USA.
April 23, 2026
The Peace Pole, inscribed with the message “May Peace Prevail On Earth” in four languages—English, Spanish, Hebrew, and Mohican—serves as a symbol of hope, inclusivity, and global connection.
Children from Berkshire South’s Sunshine Preschool and Out-of-School childcare programs participated in the ceremony to install Berkshire South’s new Peace Pole. Photo courtesy of Berkshire South.
Great Barrington — In recognition of Earth Day and a shared commitment to fostering unity and compassion, Berkshire South Regional Community Center installed a Peace Pole on its grounds during a special ceremony with children from its childcare programs. The installation was made possible through a generous donation from community member Elizabeth “Bonsai” Cox.
The Peace Pole, inscribed with the message “May Peace Prevail On Earth” in four languages—English, Spanish, Hebrew, and Mohican—serves as a symbol of hope, inclusivity, and global connection. The installation reflects Berkshire South’s mission to create a welcoming environment for all and to nurture values that extend beyond its walls.
“At a time when the world can feel divided, small, intentional acts like this matter,” said Berkshire South Executive Director Jenise Lucey. “This Peace Pole is a reminder to our community, especially our youngest members, that peace begins with each of us.”
The Earth Day event brought together children from Berkshire South’s Sunshine Preschool and Out-of-School childcare programs, offering them an opportunity to take part in a meaningful activity rooted in environmental stewardship and community values. By incorporating the Peace Pole into its Earth Day celebration, Berkshire South highlighted the connection between caring for the planet and caring for one another.
The Peace Pole was donated by Berkshire South member Elizabeth “Bonsai” Cox, whose presence at the center has made a lasting impression. Known for her vibrant spirit and commitment to “Love, Peace, and Gratitude,” Cox has volunteered extensively at the center—restoring the natural landscape by removing invasive vines and serving as a mystery reader in the Sunshine Preschool, where she has also donated copies of her own children’s books.
Originating in Japan following World War II, the Peace Pole Project has grown into an international movement, with more than 250,000 poles installed in nearly every country worldwide. Each Peace Pole stands as a universal call for peace across cultures, languages, and borders.
Berkshire South is proud to join this global movement while honoring the local community it serves. The inclusion of Mohican alongside other languages on the pole acknowledges the region’s Indigenous heritage and reinforces the center’s commitment to inclusivity and respect.
The Peace Pole will remain a permanent fixture on Berkshire South’s grounds, offering a space for reflection and serving as a daily reminder of our shared responsibility to cultivate peace in our communities, our environment, and ourselves.
Written by Edge Staff
Photo courtesy of Berkshire South