The Universal Peace Wheel project is based on the belief that the three aspects of Pachamama Alliance vision stated above are profoundly interconnected and that peace is an integral part of that vision. The project recognizes that our community is made up of people who, in spite of differences in culture, economic spheres, spiritual persuasions, and philosophies, can come together to move our community and the world toward a more peaceful and just existence. The intention of the Universal Peace Wheels is to unite diverse groups in our community around a common vision of a world our hearts know is possible – one made up of just and peaceful communities. A bonus for such communities is that societies comprising peaceful, compassionate, and connected people move toward becoming healthy and happy Blue Zones.  

Who is invited to help create the Universal Peace Wheel?

Throughout 2026 and 2027, SOPA’s Universal Peace Wheel team will be reaching out to businesses, service groups, schools, churches and individuals interested in promoting peace in our community, our country and the world. Organizations and individuals will join in the creation of the wheels as a way of unifying our community and inspiring the furthering of peace in the world. 

A variety of skills and ideas are key to the Universal Peace Wheel project — Indigenous leaders and wisdom keepers, artists, performers, carpenters, engineers, accountants, writers, media coordinators, filmmakers, presenters, networkers, reconciliation trainers, children, teens, adults, and elders — everyone has something to offer. 

What are the Models for Universal Peace Wheels?

Prayer wheels are cultural art forms found in every corner of the world.  The Universal Peace Wheel represents peace, kindness and compassion for all living beings, one that includes all cultures, faiths, and living traditions. With help from our greater community, the SOPA Universal Peace Wheels will be filled with prayers, intentions, poems, and images of peace and compassion created by children, teens and adults from all walks of life and from all cultural and spiritual backgrounds. 

Many believe that when such a wheel is turned it can help heal people and the environment and can aid in bringing about peace. Imagine countless prayers and intentions radiating outward each time the wheel turns.

The wheels currently being planned are modeled after Tibetan prayer wheels. The main difference between a Universal Peace Wheel and a Tibetan prayer wheel is that the universal design represents all major world cultures. Several Ashland sites are currently being explored as options for building Universal Peace Wheels in Ashland. 

When will the Universal Peace Wheel be completed?

The goal for final installations of the wheels is the spring/summer of 2027 in order to be fully ready for celebrations around the United Nations’ International Day of Peace on September 21, 2027.

Plans are being drafted now for a Universal Peace Wheel Celebration in Ashland during the spring of 2027, including a Peace Walk/Run and a Peace Ceremony featuring music, dancing, food, and educational tables from a broad spectrum of organizations.