Japan Press Weekly

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2011 October 19 - 25 [ANTI-N-ARMS]

Nihon Hidankyo celebrates 55th anniversary

The Japan Confederation of A- and H-Bombs Sufferers’ Organizations (Nihon Hidankyo) on October 18 held a reception in Tokyo to commemorate the 55th anniversary of its foundation with the attendance of 140 people, including A-bomb survivors (Hibakusha) and peace activists.

Participants renewed their determination to pass on the Hibakusha movement to the next generation. Hibakusha have committed themselves to telling about the tragic reality of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki at home and abroad with the aim of achieving the total abolition of nuclear weapons. They also have been active in seeking state compensation for the negative health effects associated with radiation exposure.

Speaking on behalf of Nihon Hidankyo, co-chair Tsuboi Sunao said, “In the 66 years since the A-bombing, many Hibakusha have passed away. Often, their lives and human dignity were ruined by the atomic bombs. Only government compensation to the remaining survivors may help the dead rest in peace.”

Japanese Communist Party Secretariat Head Ichida Tadayoshi and House of Representatives member Kasai Akira attended the reception as did other political party representatives.

Ichida in his speech said, “Activities performed by Nihon Hidankyo have encouraged anti-nuclear movements at home and abroad and, at the same time, have been an influence affecting international politics.”

Ichida also said that along with Nihon Hidankyo, the JCP will work hard to create a world without nuclear weapons and a Japanese society without nuclear power plants.