Annual Peace Concert and Art Exhibit

The Freeport community came together in a resounding chorus of peace, love, and acceptance at the annual district wide Peace Concert and Art Exhibit, held at the Performing Arts Center of Freeport High School on Oct 2. 

The event, organized by the Freeport School District, served as a celebration of the International Day of Peace and International Day of Non-Violence, coinciding with the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.

The evening began with a solemn presentation of colors led by members of the Freeport High School Navy JROTC, followed by a warm welcome from Director of Arts Lynn Fusco. Superintendent of Schools, Kishore Kuncham expressed gratitude to staff, students, and attendees, emphasizing the district’s longstanding commitment to promoting peace and non-violence worldwide.

“Our district has long held the belief of sharing peace and non-violence in our world,” Kuncham said. “We know we are the change makers that can lead the way to a more peaceful and equitable existence for all. The importance of this day, marked by the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, is not just about remembering the past, it is about creating a vision for our future that is guided by the timeless human values he championed.”

The event was energetically led by eighth-grader emcee Aiden Jean-Louis, who introduced each performing act with passion. Students from all grade levels showcased their musical talents on the stage, delivering songs that resonated with messages of prosperity. The accompanying virtual slideshow displayed artwork created by students, further reinforcing the evening’s theme.

The highlight of the event was the debut performance of a special song titled “Find a Way to Peace,” a creation of Freeport students. With guidance from composer Jim Papoulis, the Freeport Summer Academy of the Arts District Wide Chorus worked diligently during school recess to bring this original piece of music to life. The song, proudly bearing the Freeport name, left a lasting impression.

The powerful rendition of “Find a Way to Peace,” along with the exceptional performances throughout the night, earned a standing ovation from the appreciative audience. The Freeport Peace Concert once again served as a beacon of unity and love in the community, spreading a message of hope and harmony for the future.