Hiroshima A-bomb Survivor Shares Testimony in the Tasman District

September, 2024[Tasman, New Zealand]

Report by Ms. Yulia Panfylova, Tasman District

Although New Zealand is not actively involved in military conflicts, peace education becomes important in the local context. Addressing peace helps prevent future conflicts by promoting dialogue, acceptance and understanding. Without peace education, cultural tensions could resurface, particularly around sensitive issues like land ownership, resource management, or political representation.

To celebrate World Day of Peace and to promote peace education, Tasman District Council partnered with Mayors for Peace to organize a Zoom meeting with a hibakusha Teruko Yahata (an atomic bomb survivor) on September 26. Hiroshima Peace Culture Foundation arranged an interpreter and provided technical support. This event was held in Richmond Library with the assistance of a librarian Karyn McLintock.

Teruko Yahata’s talk and her slides left people emotional and speechless. They needed some time before they could talk and ask questions. The talk was attended by a range of people, there were international students and local residents, and a special guest – Tasman District Councillor Jo Ellis, who always supports peace education events.

After the event, participants filled out feedback forms. Here is some of their feedback:
“Nene and I had never heard about the real experiences of Hiroshima bomb survivors, so it was a very good experience for us. Thank you for giving us this opportunity.” (attendees from Japan)
“Thank you. Unique Opportunity. Much appreciated.”
“Very informative. To hear firsthand of the experience of the atomic bomb and aftermath was shocking and inspiring. Very timely considering the outbreak of the invasion of Ukraine and the outbreak of war in the Middle East/ Gaza, Lebanon and Israel.”
“Good to hear her side. She looks so young for her age. I wonder how she didn’t get sick?”
“Wonderful event. Big thank you.”

Tasman District Council believes that building a peaceful society today prevents the likelihood of future generations inheriting unresolved conflict. By promoting understanding and empathy, peace education works as a proactive measure to build long-term unity in our multicultural society.

Photos: courtesy of the Tasman District