Hiroshima Day Vigil and Remembrance

The Santa Cruz Chapter of the United Nations Association is sponsoring a twilight vigil and remembrance to commemorate Hiroshima Day, August 6, 2017 from 6-8 PM at Clock Tower Park, downtown Santa Cruz.

This year’s vigil is particularly important. On July 7, 2017, 122 members of the UN General Assembly for the first time ever voted for a treaty banning the use and possession of nuclear weapons. This international treaty will go into effect on Dec. 20, 2017. The US, other nuclear powers and their allies boycotted the vote and have not yet endorsed or signed the treaty. It is up to us to organize and mobilize popular support for our country to become a signatory.

This year’s commemoration will be honored by the presence of crew members from the Veterans for Peace Golden Rule Project. The Golden Rule is the recovered and restored original peace ship that set sail in 1958 to stop nuclear testing in the atmosphere, and which inspired the many peace makers and peace ships that followed. It is currently touring the West Coast and is currently docked in the Yacht Harbor. A member of the crew will address the event and talk about their activities. The reborn Golden Rule is sailing once more, to show that nuclear abolition is possible, and that bravery and tenacity can overcome militarism.

There will be musical performances by a wide array of local artists and an open mic for those who would like to speak their piece regarding global denuclearization.

If your organization would like to co-sponsor the event please contact deetler [at] gmail.com. Your organization's name will then appear as a co-sponsor on all publicity. We would also like to invite speakers and musicians to the event. If you would like to speak or perform please contact deetler [at] gmail.com or call at 831 334-8615.

Please announce this gathering to members of your organization, congregation or personal network and encourage them to participate. A large turn-out will garner much needed media coverage.