The views expressed in the following text do not necessarily match the views of this site or the Government of Canada.
Peace Activism: "Get Up! Stand Up"
August 23, 2002
by Sharan
Worried about a US-Iraq war? Are national missile defence systems keeping you up at night? Probably not, but you might have given them some thought if you had attended a recent Hiroshima Day Vigil.
Each year on August 6th, peace-minded citizens commemorate the sadness and devastation of the 1945 Allied bombings of the cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. For Toronto's Hiroshima Day Vigil, held at the Peace Garden in Nathan Phillips Square, opposition to arms proliferation and American military policy dominated the annual event that reminds us of the tragedy of war.
Sounds heavy. But at a time of increased global military tensions, this year's Hiroshima Day Vigil served as an important rallying point for peace activism. Fierce criticism was made of the policies of the current Bush administration -- such as the refusal to sign the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty, the demise of the Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty, and efforts to militarize space.
Even though they were fired-up, none of the speakers appeared very optimistic. Perhaps this pessimism can partially explain the lack of youth attendance and involvement in the Vigil itself.
While a common element of anti-globalization protests, young people are now barely visible in the peace movement. Like the massive American student protests during the Vietnam war, youth activism is driven by energy and seeing your actions make a real statement. A similar spirit is needed again in order to win the interest and support of youth.
In a beautiful homage to the bombings' victims, the Vigil concluded with floating lighted paper lanterns in City Hall's water fountain. The lingering lights at twilight served as beacons for a message from Hiroshima that is very relevant today: "Remember the sanctity of peace, never believe that we are powerless -- peace will come with the culmination of individual efforts."
**Interested in peace activism? Check-out the "Bread not Bombs Campaign" and links to Canadian peace groups courtesy the Canadian Peace Alliance.
The views expressed in the following text do not necessarily match the views of this site or the Government of Canada.
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