When I went to Hiroshima to talk with survivors of the atomic bombings about how they overcame the trauma they had suffered, I did not expect to return with a commitment to support them in their mission to share their stories as a means of preventing such a thing ever happening to anyone else.
However, hearing their personal testimonies again and again, and getting to know each of them as a warm, passionate, courageous human being with a life and family and fears and dreams just like me (rather than historical characters of another age and time) I came to realise that their stories, but for the whims of fate and politics, could be ours, and that I must honour us all by relaying what I feel so honoured to have heard and learned.
Since my return, I have been delivering presentations about the Hibakusha I came to know, their lives from the time of the atomic bombing, and their passionate message to the world; that their experience of nuclear devastation must never be repeated.
Presentations are lively and informal, and include picture slides, artefacts and gifts from Hiroshima and the Hibakusha, artwork produced by them, and the opportunity to communicate empathy and support to them via messages and cards letting them know that their stories are being heard - something that means a great deal to them. The aim of the presentations is to honour the Hibakusha who were generous enough to share their testimnies with me and illuminate the legacy of hope Hiroshima personifies as well as highlight the devastation it has suffered, and the progression of the nuclear arms race since 1945 (outlined here)
I am happy to present to groups of all kinds. Presentations last approximately two hours but longer workshops can also be arranged.
Hope in the Heart CIC is not affiliated with any political party or organisation. We support the community of Hiroshima in its belief that nuclear weapons must be abolished on humanitarian grounds, in the context of every person's human right to a safe and just life.