Hosted by: Ground Zero Center for Nonviolent Action

See here for details: https://www.gzcenter.org/event/hiroshima-nagasaki-never-again-2/

The Ground Zero Center for Nonviolent Action will observe the 76th anniversary of the atomic bombings of Japan in 1945, along with events and presentations that call for the abolition of nuclear weapons and repeat the exhortation of “Never Again!”

This year’s observances start with the Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist Temple’s Peace Walk to Green Lake for the From Hiroshima To Hope ceremony Friday, August 6.  The gathering begins at 5:30 and the program starts at 6:30.  This remembrance with floating candle lanterns has been held every year since 1984 and is a very moving experience.

On Saturday, August 7 we will welcome the Interfaith Peace Walkers to Ground Zero around noon.  Participants should bring their own lunch.  There will be a tour of the pagoda site and a review of the history of the efforts to build a Peace Pagoda at Ground Zero starting in the 1980’s.  The afternoon will include an update on the current state of nuclear weapons.  The keynote address will be given by Marshall Islander Rachel Hoffman whose presentation is titled Kijejeto (Persevere). More details on Ms. Hoffman and her presentation at the end of this post. Free camping on the grounds is available.

Sunday, August 8 will focus on preparation for the vigil and action the following day.  There will be a discussion of the effectiveness of civil disobedience, a discernment process for those considering direct action, nonviolence training, and role-plays for the action.  An exciting feature of this year’s events is the return of the “WAR!” flash-mob dancers featuring the talented Delaney Dancers (click here to see their 2019 Flash Mob at Bangor); a good part of the afternoon of the 8th will be rehearsal and coordination of several dance teams, who will perform Monday morning at the Bangor main gate.  The day will conclude with a return performance from longtime GZ associate, musician, and songwriter Tom Rawson.

Monday, August 9 is our morning of action!  A light breakfast will be available.  The gathering circle for the march, vigil, and action will form at 6 AM, with a blessing from KUUF minister Jessica Star Rockers and recitation of the pledge of nonviolence.  The vigil will include songs, signs, banners, the flash-mob performance, and direct action as determined through the discernment process.  Vigillers will likely witness the symbolic shutdown of the Bangor main entrance, as Ground Zero activists use their bodies and their consciences to call attention to the great crime that nuclear weapons constitute.

Due to the pandemic, a number of restrictions, guidelines, and modifications are in place.  Those who have been double-vaccinated may enter and use the GZ house; all others must stay outside, use masks, practice social distancing and handwashing, and use general common sense.  Partly due to COVD concerns, meals will be a combination of brown bagging, potluck, catering or takeout, and some basics prepared in the house kitchen.  Please come prepared to be flexible and provide some of your own vittles!

TENTATIVE SCHEDULE