SAVE THE DATE: Applications for 2027 ‘Peace Portraits’ Open August 3

Calling all peacebuilders and changemakers: The application window for the 2027 Peace Portraits will open August 3, 2026.

Presented by the Illinois Peace Project, Peace Portraits is a visual series dedicated to spotlighting extraordinary individuals working every day to build safer, stronger, and more peaceful communities. Whether through community organizing, acts of kindness, public service, or creative initiatives, we want to hear your story on how you or someone you know are inspiring change. 

View the 2026 Peace Portraits campaign here.

Selected honorees will have their stories told through a beautiful digital spread of videos, photos, and editorial features. Additionally, honorees will be celebrated at a special screening in June 2027, Gun Violence Awareness Month.

If you or someone you know has a story that will motivate others and spark positive change in Illinois, we encourage you to apply or nominate them.

The application window will open Monday, August 3, 2026 at 12 a.m. CST and close Friday, September 18, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. CST. The submission fee is $35.

The Illinois Peace Project is an initiative supported by partner organizations with a shared vision for reducing gun violence in Illinois. Learn more about Peace Portraits here.