The Keeling-Puri Peace Plaza was erected by the families of Virgil Keeling of Rockford and Amanath Puri of Mumbai to honor the vision of the two men, righteousness in the heart and peace in the world. The 15 foot by 34 foot sculpture “Harmony Atlas” sits atop a 7 foot by 25 foot granite sculpture base in the center of the bricked Plaza. The sculpture base is adorned with 10 peace quotes from modern day and ancient prophets of peace, and from Micah 6:8 of Jewish, Christian and Islamic tradition: “And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” The theme of Peace is portrayed in the Peace Plaza’s five Peace Poles which proclaim in sixty different languages (all related to Rockford’s ethnic and cultural heritage): “May Peace Prevail on Earth”. The celebration of Rockford’s ethnic heritage and diversity is also symbolized in the striking Court of Flags representing 40 different nationalities, all currently dwelling in the Rockford area in significant numbers. In addition to serving as a trailhead to bike and hike trails, the plaza is designed to be a gathering place for youth, including an annual peace day celebrated every September 21.
Monday’s Monument: Keeling-Puri Peace Plaza, Rockford, IL
