Sixth Peace Pole for the town of Marl, Germany.
September 15, 2026
The Peace Pole – a symbol of peace-what does peace means to us?
This question is more relevant than ever. At the Gymnasium in Loekamp, a visible symbol of peace and understanding was therefore set:
On September 15, 2026, a Peace Pole was inaugurated on the school grounds.
A Peace Pole is a symbol of the desire for peace throughout the world. The message of peace inscribed on it is intended to unite people regardless of origin, language, or religion.
The unveiling of the Peace Pole was accompanied by live music from “Voices on Fire.” After the musical opening with “A Little Peace,” Headmaster Marc Brode welcomed those present. Mayor Thomas Terhorst then gave a speech. Both emphasized that peace begins with small gestures and starts with everyday interactions. Respect, understanding, and peaceful coexistence are important steps toward peaceful coexistence.
Afterwards, the Peace Pole was unveiled, accompanied by the music of “Give Peace a Chance.” The inscription on the pole was then recited in eight different languages. The students added their own personal thoughts to the sentence, “Peace means to me…” The ceremony concluded with the song “We Move into Peace” by Kristina Birjukov.
Why a Peace Pole at the GiL?
Peace has always been an integral part of our school’s identity. The GiL’s mission statement envisions a future that is peaceful, just, based on solidarity, and sustainable. This encompasses not only major political issues but also our daily interactions: How do we treat our fellow students? How do we resolve conflicts? And how can we ensure that everyone at our school feels welcome and respected? The peace pole is meant to make these ideas visible. It symbolizes that peace begins with each individual, whether in the classroom, on the school grounds, or in our interactions with one another.
The Peace Pole at the GiL (Gymnasium im Leibniz) is not the only one of its kind in Marl. The city has already erected peace poles in several locations. Of particular interest in the school context is the Peace Pole at the Albert-Schweitzer/Geschwister-Scholl-Gymnasium (ASGSG). It was erected on the school grounds on September 22, 2025. It is the fifth Peace Pole in the city and the first at a school in Marl.
This Peace Pole makes for the 6th Peace Pole planted/dedicated in the town of Marl.
Tuana and Jasmin for the GiL editorial team