Watertown Citizens
Candleboats float on the Charles River in Watertown in memory of those who died in the nuclear bombings in Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
On Sunday, Aug. 9, two groups will hold a commemoration of the nuclear attacks on Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
The public is invited to the event – Remembering Hiroshima and Nagasaki – Building a Nuclear Free World. Watertown Citizens for Peace, Justice and the Environment sent out the following announcement:
Please join us for a commemoration of the nuclear attack on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki by the United States in 1945 – the first use of nuclear weapons by any country – that caused over 120,000 deaths and years of misery and suffering for thousand of survivors.
5:30 p.m. – Film showing of Article 9 Comes to America Grace Vision Church, 80 Mt. Auburn Street, Watertown. The showing is free. There is limited parking in a lot aside the church and additional street parking. Accessible for those using a wheelchair.
Article 9 Comes to America is a film that challenges us to consider an amendment to the U.S. Constitution based on Article 9 of the Japanese constitution which states that Japan will never again make war. Article 9 Comes to America features interviews with proponents of Article 9, peace activists, and intellectuals from the left and right. Produced by David Rothauser.
7 p.m. – Silent march from Grace Vision Church to Watertown Square.
7:30 p.m. – Silent Vigil – Bring a sign that expresses your feelings about the nuclear bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki as well as your support for the nuclear agreement with Iran (see below).
8 p.m. – Testimonials and Music – Folks are invited to say a few words and to join in song with local musicians.
8:30 p.m. – Launching of the Candleboats – Candleboats will be launched in memory of those who died in the nuclear bombings. This is a ceremony that takes place at commemorations in Japan and throughout the world.
SPECIAL NOTE: We are linking this event to our support for the nuclear deal with Iran and will urge participants to contact members of Congress asking that they support the agreement.
Sponsored by Watertown Citizens for Peace, Justice and the Environment and the New England American Friends Service Committee. For more information – http://www.watertowncitizens.org