On September 22, 2024, the community of Rockville came together to honor a powerful legacy at the 20th annual Mattie Peace Day, held at Mattie J.T. Stepanek Park. Originally set for July but moved due to extreme heat, the event marked two decades of celebrating the vision and hope of Mattie, a young poet and peace advocate whose influence reached far and wide.
Attending with my wife and children, we experienced the joy of the day firsthand. The kids enjoyed face painting, the moon bounce, and indulged in free cookies. My son even took home a doll he built at one of the booths. It was a day of fun, but more importantly, it was a day filled with the message of peace that Mattie dedicated his life to sharing.
The event was hosted by Jeni Stepanek, affectionately known as *"Mama Peace,"* who continues to carry her son’s torch for peace. Her emotional speech touched everyone in attendance as she reflected on Mattie’s dream for a world free from conflict. A touching moment came when one of Mattie’s poems was played aloud, reminding us all of his profound wisdom and vision for humanity.
Mattie’s influence went beyond Rockville; he was an inspiration to Oprah Winfrey and a close friend of President Jimmy Carter, who often spoke about the wisdom and heart that Mattie brought to his work. Despite his young age, Mattie’s advocacy for peace touched some of the most influential figures in the world, further cementing his legacy as a beacon of hope.
The event closed with a rousing group dance to the song *“We Are Family,”* bringing everyone together to celebrate community, love, and unity. Rockville’s mayor, state representatives, and volunteers all played a role in making the day memorable, ensuring that Mattie’s message lives on.
The 20th annual Mattie Peace Day was more than just a local gathering—it was a testament to the power of one boy’s dream for a better world. As "Mama Peace" so beautifully reminded us, peace is a choice we must all make daily, and through events like this, we are keeping that choice alive.
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