The US, UK, and France conducted more than 300 nuclear tests in the Pacific region. The Soviets tested 430 nuclear tests in Kazakhstan. These states have never apologized and the public is unaware of the extent of the environmental and humanitarian problems linked to these tests. Our project seeks to raise awareness and bring the descendants of these nuclear tests and allies to New York to meet with diplomats, policymakers, and the press. Their stories must be heard.
US, France, UK, and Soviet Union (Russia) selected remote areas of the world to conduct their tests. They did not reveal how their tests would dramatically contaminate ecosystems and change the traditional lifestyles of the Indigenous people. They have yet to disclose the medical impact of their tests and any studies they conducted. Many survivors and their descendants have experienced cancers and post-traumatic stress disorders linked to the tests. Their voices have mostly remained silent.
Ayanna Pressley once said "Those closest to the pain must be closest to the power." We cannot offer an equitable solution unless those affected most are present. As such, we will organize a youth delegation to the 3rd Meeting of States Parties to Nuclear Ban Teaty. Prior to the NY trip, we will convene peer-to-peer art workshops and roundtables on how to effectively share their testimonies with the media. We will also devote time to teaching Pacific activists how to engage with policymakers.
As a long-term impact, we will establish a network for youth from affected communities. As our network of youth activists grows, so does their power and impact. They will utilize the activist space created by Reverse the Trend to share their experiences and highlight their views on the twin existential threats of nuclear weapons and climate change. We believe that through collective action, these voices can have a greater impact on policymakers.
This project has provided additional documentation in a PDF file (projdoc.pdf).
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