Leeds hoists the peace flag to mark the tenth anniversary of the Commonwealth Charter

A new peace flag will be flown in Leeds on Commonwealth Day, marking the tenth anniversary of the signing of the Commonwealth Charter.

Members of the public are invited to join the Lord Mayor of Leeds, Councilor Robert Gettings, West Yorkshire Deputy Lieutenant Mr Paul Lawrence DL and West Yorkshire High Sheriff Mrs Susan Baker MBE JP DL on the steps of the Civic Hall from the 10:45 a.m. ceremony on Monday, March 13.

The flag for peace, which features a white dove of peace in the lower right corner, will be blessed by the rector of Leeds, the Reverend Paul Maybury.

Music for the ceremony will be provided by bugler Sam Fisher, playing the band. Sam Westerman of the City of Leeds Pipe Band will play Highland Cathedral, a favorite of the Queen Mother.

Lord Mayor of Leeds, Councilor Robert W Gettings MBE JP said: “The raising of the Peace Flag by 74 towns across the UK not only marks the tenth anniversary of the Commonwealth Charter, but also the shared values ​​and principles we celebrate every Commonwealth Day.

“These values ​​include cooperation in economic and social development, diversity, respect, friendship and the promotion of world peace.

“I hope the people of Leeds will join me on Monday to reflect on our hard-won freedoms, the importance of peace in these uncertain times and to celebrate our friendships within our family of nations.”

The annual Commonwealth Day symbolizes the UK’s commitment to common Commonwealth values ​​and principles.

The Commonwealth Charter is considered one of the most important documents in the history of the organization. Signed by the late Queen Elizabeth II, the Commonwealth Charter sets out the values ​​and aspirations that unite the 56 independent countries of the Commonwealth and the 2.5 billion people who live there.

For more information on the Commonwealth Peace Flag, visit: https://thecommonwealth.org/news/commonwealth-launches-flag-peace-celebrate-10th-anniversary-charter