Frederick Friends Meeting was a co-sponsor for a new program, Student Peace Awards of Frederick County, which held its first ceremony Feb. 21 at Friends Meeting School in Ijamsville. About 35 people saw the awards presentation for local public and private high school students who were named in their school communities for their commitment and compassion in promoting peace and respect. Each student received a cash award of $100 plus another $100 for a charity of their choice. Funding for the awards came from 10 local sponsors.

The keynote speaker was Kathryn Ruud, who spoke on “Stop Polarizing Talk.” Violent actions frequently stem from violent language, according to Ruud. Her talk included clips of American talk-show hosts using demonizing language to berate people on the other side of an issue. After the talk and awards presentation, there was a group discussion focusing on how to address polarizing talk and to be peacemakers in our own lives.

See the Frederick News Post article on the event.