Peace is a big word, and one of the hardest to turn into everyday action. So, this Peace Week, instead of talking about peace in the abstract, we honored people in Chandler who practice it.
On Tuesday, September 22, city officials and business leaders gathered at the Chick-fil-A at Arizona Avenue and Ocotillo Road to recognize seven local peacekeepers. Each received a certificate that reads: "In recognition of your courage, dedication, and advocacy, we sincerely appreciate your unwavering commitment to building a more peaceful, passionate world."
Four members of the Chandler Police Department were honored for protecting the rights of Hamilton High School students during a peaceful protest in January. When an armed, masked, off-duty Phoenix police sergeant came to that protest and told our officers he planned to let students assault him so they would be arrested, our officers stayed calm. They de-escalated a tense situation, documented what they saw and made sure students could express themselves safely. That is what public safety should look like: protecting rights, not provoking reactions.
Nick Lord and Melissa Ciconte were honored for turning unimaginable grief into purpose. Since losing their son Preston in 2023, they have led Justice4PrestonLord, which works to end teen violence and empower young people to be Upstanders. September 23 is Preston Lord Day in Chandler, a fitting part of Peace Week.
Juanita Encinas was honored for decades of advocacy on behalf of Chandler residents' immigration rights. In July 1997, a five-day immigration sweep stopped residents, including U.S. citizens, largely because of the color of their skin. Juanita has spent many years pushing our city to listen, heal and do better. Her voice reminds us that peace requires justice, and justice requires memory.
As a U.S. Army veteran, I have seen what happens when people forget how to see each other's humanity. I have also seen what is possible when they remember it. Real peace starts small, with a willingness to understand someone different.
Scripture tells us, "Blessed are the peacemakers." Peace is not passive. It is a decision we make every day to build bridges instead of walls.
So here is my challenge: love your neighbor. Not the version you imagine, but the person in front of you. Peace matters. Peace is powerful. And peace has a home here in Chandler.
Councilmember OD Harris represents the City of Chandler and serves as Vice-Chair of the Valley Metro Regional Public Transportation Authority Board of Directors.
