Peace Poem Winner!!!

This year marked an unforgettable moment as Kiyoshi S. was named the top overall winner of the poetry contest. His award-winning poem will be displayed in the Peace Rose Garden in Stockton, California for an entire year—a remarkable honor.

In a touching display of dedication, the contest organizers traveled from California to personally present Kiyoshi with his awards. There were so many that those in attendance had to pitch in just to help him carry them all.

What made the occasion even more extraordinary was a remarkable family connection. In an unprecedented coincidence, Kiyoshi’s sister had been the winner in 2023. His poem will now take the place of hers in the garden in Atlanta. Since the event was not held in 2024, the organizers also took the opportunity to present his sister with her 2023 plaque during this year’s celebration—creating a symbolic family handoff.

The entire experience was a rare and meaningful coincidence, and truly something special—definitely Hootworthy!

Congratulations Kiyoshi S.!!!

Peace Poem Winner:
Kiyoshi S., 2025 Peace Poem winner!

Inspirational Messages Of Peace:
The winning Inspirational Messages of Peace that border the garden are written by our youth from the greater Atlanta area, the United States and around the world. The poems express the ideals of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Mrs. Coretta Scott King, the meaning of the garden or an aspect of peace dear to the students’ hearts. New messages are unveiled at the annual anniversary celebration.  https://www.worldpeacerosegardens.org/the-martin-luther-king-jr-national-historic-site/