Winnipeg Lanterns for Peace 2021

76 years ago, the world was introduced to the horrors of nuclear war. The death, destruction and suffering that resulted from the nuclear bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, on Aug 6 and 9, 1945 meant that the world had changed for the worse. Nothing would ever be the same. The mushroom clouds that arose over Japan cast a shadow that menaces every living creature, even today.

In 1945 the United States had a monopoly on nuclear power; today, nine countries have their own nuclear arsenals and many more, via NATO, are set up to use these weapons.

Therefore, we gather annually to remember people whose lives were lost in August 1945, to remember the survivors whose lives were unalterably damaged, and to reaffirm our commitment to the abolition all nuclear weapons.

Please join us for our annual Lanterns for Peace ceremony. Beginning at 7:30 pm we paint lanterns and make origami cranes. (We provide the art supplies; you contribute your imagination and creativity.) At 9: 15 pm, following a short program of speeches, we float our lanterns in the fountain as the sun sets.

It is a beautiful ceremony, rich with meaning and one which can be enjoyed by the whole family. If you have never been to one, here is a playlist of videos of Lantern Ceremonies over the years. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjun-krHoPPL4Q1IW7dGVU462XV81fj23

Date: Friday, Aug 6, 2021
Time: 7:30 pm
Place: the south side of the Manitoba Legislative Building

Public health directives will be followed. Masks will be available for those who need one, but you may prefer to bring your own.

Sponsors: Peace Alliance Winnipeg, Japanese Cultural Association of Manitoba, Council of Canadians (Winnipeg Chapter)