A national urgency; an international fast
Every year, an International Fast is held in several countries worldwide between Hiroshima and Nagasaki days (6th-9th August). Initiated over thirty years ago in France and Germany, the fast takes place in sorrow and in commemoration of the 300,000 deaths at the atomic bombings of Japan.
This year, the international fast takes on particular significance as the United Nations debate a proposal for a universal comprehensive ban on nuclear weapons.
The fast is supported by many leading organisations around the world, and in the UK by Trident Ploughshares, the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament, Christian CND, and by several Quaker groups.
It is supported internationally by ICAN, the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons.
Why are we fasting?
As well as an act of remembrance, the fast is an Action-fast, to protest against the ongoing possession of nuclear weapons by 9 states. These include the United Kingdom, whose government and establishment voted last year to push through the replacement of Trident, after minimal public consultation. Such a replacement, if it goes through, risks perpetuating the UK’s status as both a target and a threat to the world, whereas the UK could, by renouncing Trident, make an extraordinary and decisive contribution to world peace.
Worldwide, numerous distinguished public figures have called for the elimination of all nuclear weapons. 123 UN member states have voted in favour of a Treaty to abolish nuclear weapons, opposed only by most nuclear-armed states and their cronies and allies.
We will be fasting to convey a double message:
To the UK government and people:
No Trident replacement!
To all nations and their peoples:
Abolish all nuclear weapons: a treaty to ban nuclear weapons now!
Come and join us!
We will be based in Victoria Embankment Gardens, Whitehall Extension throughout the four days. Accommodation will be provided nearby.
We will hold vigils on Hiroshima and Nagasaki days, and will stage various forms of peaceful protest near Parliament, Downing Street, and the Ministry of Defence.
Whether to fast with us or simply to join us in these actions, you will be welcome.
For more details contact:
Marc Morgan at 07563 725 829 or marcwmorgan@btinternet.com
Download the full brochure here