Nuclear Futures

Today is the anniversary of the atomic bomb attack on Nagasaki, 69 years ago. An official ceremony will be held at the Peace Park, as is the case every year, in honour of the thousands of people who lost their lives. A one minute silence will take place at 11.02am.

Thousands of colourful paper cranes

The dropping of the bomb (plutonium) on Nagasaki by American forces came three days after the bomb (uranium) on Hiroshima. Historically the city of Nagasaki was one the largest seaports in southern Japan and during WW2 was a centre of industrial importance, producing various military equipment and war materials. The ‘Fat Man’ bomb was scheduled for Aug 11, 1945, against Kokura however due to weather conditions and forecasts, the attack was moved forward and changed to Nagasaki.

Yesterday, in the archives at the Nagasaki National Peace Remembrance Hall I spent time listening to audio testimonies from survivors, recounting the horror of the day and the immense destruction resulting. On display in the Rembrance Hall foyer was a photographic exhibition ‘Legacy for the Future’. Curated by a survivor who lost many family members, the exhibition is one of numerous installations in the city that helps convey the reality of the damage. In the introduction, it is stated that the average age of Hibakusha (atomic bomb survivors) is now 79, and that memories are dwindling. The experience of hearing testimonies and meeting Hibakusha (including descendants) has helped to deepen my understanding of the reality of nuclear weapons use.

My visit to the Atomic Bomb Museum was also of great interest, as detailed are all aspects of the bombing of Nagasaki, as well as extensive information on the development and testing of nuclear weapons.

My thoughts today are with Nagasaki.  And also with our current political leaders.

EB

Ceremony preparations at the Peace Park (Aug 8th)

Display at Atomic Bomb Museum, Nagasaki visually showing the locations of bomb tests and attacks