Hudson Valley students paint mural for peace at Newburgh’s South Middle School

More than a dozen young volunteers came together Thursday afternoon to paint a vibrant mural in honor of the United Nations International Day of Peace, observed annually on Sept. 21.

Stephen O'Leary

Aug 30, 2025, 12:52 AM

Updated 4 hr ago

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Students from across the Hudson Valley gathered at South Middle School in Newburgh to make a colorful statement for peace as the new school year begins.
More than a dozen young volunteers came together Thursday afternoon to paint a vibrant mural in honor of the United Nations International Day of Peace, observed annually on Sept. 21.
The event was organized by ASEZ STAR, a student-led volunteer group affiliated with the World Mission Society Church of God. Members from various schools in the region participated. The project aims to promote kindness, self-esteem, and a safe school environment for incoming students through the power of art.
“When they come in and start the new year, we want to give them hope. And we want to encourage them to start off on the right foot, and to also help other students,” said Ethan Calle, an 11th grader at John Jay High School
The mural is part of ASEZ STAR’s School Violence Prevention Campaign, which encourages students to use positive words, build supportive communities and take action to foster peace in their schools.