Today is Elder Melvin Giles Day!
- Karyssa
- Aug 2
- 2 min read
In 2025, the City of Saint Paul recognized August 2 in honor of Melvin Giles, the founder, community leader, mentor, gardner, the planter and protector of peace.
This June, we held the 30th Annual Community Peace Celebration, a histortic milestone and a celebration in honor of the legacy of the man whose vision and steadfast love shaped this celebration for three decades. It was the first year we gathered since the passing of our beloved friend and leader.
We share memories from that day today, because Melvin was there. His physical absence was undeniable. His spirit seemed woven into every embrace, every shared meal, every song, every hand playing in the dirt, every ripple of laughter, and every bubble lifted by the wind. His legacy was not only remembered-it was lived.
Together, we transformed People's Park into something sacred; a place where strangers became neighbors, old friends reunited, people danced, conversations unfolded, and joy became an act of peacemaking. It felt like a sea of purple and a baptism of bubbles, reminding us that peace is not simply something we hope for. It is something we practice together.
We are still full. Full of peace. Full of gratitude. Full of memories. Full of bubbles. Full of laughter, music, stories, and love shared across generations.
Our hearts are filled with gratitude for everyone who continues to carry this work forward. Peace is never the work of one person. It is a living legacy, entrusted to all of us
The Community Peace Celebration planning team extends our deepest thanks to every sponsor, exhibitor, artist, volunteer, and community member who joined us for the 30th Annual Community Peace Celebration. You made the day what it was.
Thank you for showing up. Thank you for believing that community matters. Thank you for helping us honor the past while planting seeds for the future.
Here's to many more years of gathering, celebrating, healing, and choosing peace-together.
With gratitude,
The Community Peace Celebration Planning Team
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