Let the Children Play

An advocacy campaign launched in Times Square calling for a prolonged Olympic Truce to restore hope and peace through sport.

Let the Children Play was an advocacy campaign calling for a prolonged Olympic Truce — the ancient tradition, renewed through the United Nations, of a pause in conflict around the Olympic Games — so that sport could help restore hope and peace for children.

Save the Dream launched the campaign in Times Square, New York, on 3 November 2015, one week after the UN General Assembly adopted its resolution on the Olympic Truce. Holding it in one of the world’s most visible public spaces took the call to an audience well beyond the sport community.

Save the Dream Ambassadors and other public figures took part in a programme of activities and speeches, among them Giusy Versace and the Italian rhythmic gymnastics team, who performed the routines that won them world titles. The performances made the campaign’s point directly: sport at its best as an example of the discipline, respect and shared effort that peace requires.

Photo: The campaign event in Times Square, New York.

PROJECT FACTS