Over 60 community members gathered on July 7 at the Ringo Starr Peace and Love Statue on Daemen’s new quad to show their support for peace and love in our increasingly violent world. This annual event coincides with Starr’s birthday and includes a special happy birthday message delivered to Ringo via livestream from many locations throughout the world.
Participants worldwide joined in celebration to spread messages of peace around the world. The band 45 RPM entertained the Daemen crowd with their spirited covers of many Beatles hit songs.
“Daemen has always supported peace and productive dialogue and opposed violence,” said Chief of Staff, Kari Costelloe. “We are honored to welcome guests of all ages as they amplify messages of peace, love, and harmony. And our quad is the perfect setting for this event!”
The Ringo Starr Peace and Love Statue is the striking centerpiece of the Honorary International Peace Garden located on Daemen’s beautiful recently completed quad, Saffrin Public Square. The statue was acquired thanks to a generous donation by Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Mr. John Yurtchuk and his wife, Carolyn Yurtchuk.
The statue is an 8 foot replica of Ringo’s right hand flashing his trademark peace sign. The statue is one of only a few approved by the Beatles drummer. “As we were planning the quad, we thought, what better place to put this symbol and message of peace and love than in front of the Daemen community,” Yurtchuk said.