Messages from the mayors of Japanese member cities of Mayors for Peace
Dec. 24, 2014
1. Fumio Ueda, Mayor of Sapporo City
We must not forget the experiences and the memories of war. In 1992, our city adopted the “Sapporo Peace Declaration” to express our belief that peace is the most important thing for the welfare of citizens. Each year in Sapporo, children, who will build our future, write messages of peace. Melodies are also composed for these messages so they can be sung in chorus. In this way, as they sing these songs with their messages, we want children to continue reflecting on the tragedy of war and the importance of peace.
The citizens of Sapporo will continue working with the peace-loving citizens of the world to help bring about the abolition of nuclear weapons and realize a peaceful world.
2. Seiichi Aizawa, Mayor of Misato Town, Miyagi Prefecture
Nearly 70 years have passed since the atomic bombings which took the precious lives of so many people. Each year, the town of Misato sends junior high school students to Hiroshima or Nagasaki and carries out peace education activities so that young people, the builders of the future, understand the preciousness of peace.
It is our responsibility to protect all living things and nature and to hand down to future generations a safe and secure environment. The people of Misato will continue to stand united, sending out strong appeals in order to maintain this beautiful and peaceful planet for the generations to come.
3. Sanjuro Abe, Mayor of Yonezawa City, Yamagata Prefecture
The “Snow Lantern Festival” is an important effort by our citizens, an event held every February in the city of Yonezawa. The festival was started by those who came back from the battlefields of World War II as a way of praying for the repose of the war dead and for lasting peace in the world, in the memory of friends who did not return. Next February will mark the 39th festival.
Each time we see the lights lit in the snow, as prayers for peace, we are convinced that our nation must pursue disarmament, not a military buildup, and that Japan must make further efforts to advance peace in the world by making international contributions and promoting people-to-people exchanges.
4. Koichi Yokoyama, Mayor of Numata City, Gunma Prefecture
Almost 70 years have passed since the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. As Japan is the only country that has experienced atomic bombings, the people of this nation must once again reflect on the fact that today’s prosperity was built on the sacrifices of many victims who were deprived of their precious lives. We must convey to our future generations and to the world our determination not to repeat this tragic history.
Nuclear weapons remain a serious menace to the human race. I call for the immediate abolition of all nuclear weapons in the world, hoping that we will realize a genuine and lasting peace.
5. Yoshiaki Kawai, Mayor of Kawagoe City, Saitama Prefecture
August 6, 2015 will mark the 70th anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, the first nuclear attack in human history. I would like to offer my deepest condolences to the victims of the atomic bombing and my sincere sympathy to the survivors who are still suffering from the aftereffects.
I will continue to call for the abolition of nuclear weapons and for the realization of lasting peace in the world, a hope shared by people everywhere. As a member of Mayors for Peace, I will make further efforts with our citizens to advance these goals.
I send sincere good wishes for the continued prosperity of the International Peace Culture City, Hiroshima.
6. Kazuo Warabi, Mayor of Sakura City, Chiba Prefecture
The year 2015 will mark the 70th anniversary of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. It will also mark the 20th year since the city of Sakura enacted its peace ordinance. Based on this ordinance, we have sought to teach young people about the tragedy of war and the importance of peace, sending “Sakura Peace Missions,” comprised of junior high school students, to the A-bombed cities and pursuing various projects such as relating experiences of the war to elementary school children. We would like to continue our efforts to convey the importance of peace to many more people and unite with other cities of the world to abolish nuclear weapons.
7. Yasuo Ozaki, Mayor of Higashiyamato City, Tokyo
During the Pacific War, many citizens of Higashiyamato became victims in the three major air raids that took place in February and April of 1945. On the walls of the former Hitachi aircraft factory substation in our city, there remain countless holes from machine-gun fire and bomb shrapnel, conveying to visitors the fierce attacks and the horror of that war.
Higashiyamato adopted a peace city declaration in 1990. We are determined to work together with the people of the world to bring about lasting world peace and a world free of war and nuclear weapons.
8. Morimasa Murakami, Mayor of Musashino City, Tokyo
Seventy years have passed since the first air raid on Musashino on November 24, 1944. In 1982, Musashino issued a declaration to assert its status as a nuclear-free city. In 2011, our city designated November 24 as Musashino City Peace Day to offer condolences to the war dead and to teach future generations about the tragedy of war and the preciousness of peace.
The city of Musashino and its citizens will continue to promote peace activities, pray for lasting peace in the world, and help hand down to children a peaceful future free of nuclear weapons and war.
9. Masami Ishikawa, Chiyoda City, Tokyo
The city of Chiyoda, located in the heart of Tokyo, has a population of about 850,000. It is visited by three million people every day. Our city issued the “Chiyoda International City Declaration” in 1995 to contribute to creating lasting world peace. As mayor of the city, I will continue calling for the abolition of nuclear weapons, highlighting the importance of peace and the horror of war, so that the tragedy of the atomic bombings will never be repeated.
10. Takaaki Yamazaki, Koto City, Tokyo
In the milestone year of the 70th anniversary of the atomic bombings, I offer my deepest condolences to the many victims of the atomic bombings and my sincere sympathy to those who are still suffering from the aftereffects.
As most people in Japan today were born after the end of the war, we would like to make special efforts next year so that the tragedy of war and the importance of people’s lives and peace will be remembered by future generations. With this in mind, I would like to join the citizens of Hiroshima in pledging to work for the abolition of nuclear weapons and for peace.
11. Toshio Kayama, Mayor of Sagamihara City, Kanagawa Prefecture
Almost 70 years have passed since the tragic atomic bombings that took place during World War II, but there are still conflicts in many parts of the world as well as huge stockpiles of nuclear weapons. The people of Japan all aspire for the abolition of nuclear weapons and for the realization of lasting peace. This aspiration must be conveyed to the world. To provide a better future for our children, who will play major roles in the future, we would like to join the citizens of Hiroshima and walk a new path that leads to a peaceful world.
12. Tsuneo Suzuki, Fujisawa City, Kanagawa Prefecture
In 1982, the city of Fujisawa adopted a declaration which calls for peace and the abolition of nuclear weapons, and we have been making earnest efforts to promote a variety of peace projects. In June 2014, the convention marking the 30th anniversary of the National Council of Japan Nuclear Free Local Authorities, which jointly works with Mayors for Peace, was held in our city. This was the first time that the Council’s convention took place outside the A-bombed cities.
In the 70th year of the atomic bombings, I would like to join other cities in contemplating peace issues, and promoting peace, fully recognizing the roles played by cities other than the A-bombed cities, so that Hiroshima and Nagasaki will not be relegated to the past. Together with the citizens of Fujisawa, I would like to hand down to future generations our strong wish for the abolition of nuclear weapons and for the realization of a lasting peace.
13. Shunsuke Kusuyama, Mayor of Shimoda City, Shizuoka Prefecture
Japan, the only country to have experienced atomic bombings, must lead the world in calling for the abolition of nuclear weapons. This will be a step forward to a peaceful world without nuclear weapons. Without abolishing nuclear weapons, and renouncing the use of force including these arms, it will be impossible to bring about a peaceful world without war, the aspiration of the A-bombed cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Hoping to see a world in which everyone can live in peace and security, I would like to make efforts to enhance the world’s awareness of the horror of nuclear weapons and hand down a peaceful world to future generations.
14. Akira Nyumura, Mayor of Myoko City, Nagano Prefecture
In 2009, the city of Myoko adopted a “Nuclear-Free Peace City Declaration,” hoping that all living things on earth can live in peace, embraced by the riches of nature. We would like to work with people everywhere in calling for the abolition of nuclear weapons, which destroy precious lives and the natural environment in an instant, and appealing for lasting peace in the world.
I admire A-bomb survivors for the enormous efforts they have made to promote peace and realize a world without nuclear weapons and war, despite their health concerns. I offer best wishes for their continued health and success.
15. Akio Okada, Mayor of Chikuma City, Nagano Prefecture
The abolition of nuclear weapons and lasting peace in the world are hopes shared by us all.
As the only country that has experienced atomic bombings, Japan must tell people in the world about the tragedy of Hiroshima and Nagasaki and send a strong message that we must learn from the past and never repeat the same mistake. Japan must play a leading role to bring about a world where everyone can enjoy genuine peace and equal human rights.
In 2005, the city of Chikuma adopted a declaration to create a safe and peaceful city, with the aim of improving the peace, safety, and welfare of our citizens. As pledged in the declaration, we will continue calling for the importance of lasting peace without war.
16. Ryugo Imai, Okaya City, Nagano Prefecture
Lasting peace and the abolition of nuclear weapons are wishes of everyone in the world. As most people in Japan were born after the end of the war, there is concern that they may forget the tragedy of war and the horrifying consequences of nuclear weapons. Japan is the only country to have experienced atomic bombings, and therefore we must continue telling the world about the horrifying nature of nuclear weapons and the suffering of the survivors.
I believe that if we continue calling for lasting world peace and the abolition of nuclear weapons, together with Mayors for Peace, our efforts will eventually become powerful enough to move the world.
17. Michihiko Kunishima, Mayor of Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture
In 2013, the city of Takayama in Gifu Prefecture designated September 21, which is the United Nations’ International Day of Peace, as “Takayama City Day of Peace.”
As a city which promotes international tourism, Takayama would like to foster mutual understanding in Japan and abroad through exchanges pursued with our spirit of hospitality and carry out various activities such as ringing peace bells together with other municipalities and temples to create strong momentum with everyone to bring about a lasting peace without nuclear weapons.
18. Tamotsu Nagase, Mayor of Kitanagoya City, Aichi Prefecture
Almost 70 years have passed since that hot summer when people were forced to endure untold suffering. On this occasion, I would like to offer my sincere condolences to the victims of the atomic bombings.
It is our obligation to make persistent efforts to promote peace in the international community so that human beings can coexist.
The city of Kitanagoya believes that educating the next generation about the horror of nuclear weapons and the tragedy of war will sow seeds of hope to bring about world peace. We actively promote peace projects such as sending “peace messengers” to Hiroshima and will continue our efforts to help build a lasting peace.
19. Toshiyuki Tanaka, Mayor of Yokkaichi City, Mie Prefecture
In this milestone year of the 70th anniversary of the atomic bombings and the end of World War II, I would like to offer my sincere condolences to the victims of Hiroshima and Nagasaki and all the victims of war who lost their precious lives.
Living in this age, we have a duty to learn from the tragic history of the war and to protect peace. With this in mind, I renew my resolve to make every effort to strengthen the solidarity among the municipalities to abolish nuclear weapons and to bring about lasting peace in the world.
20. Wataru Hashikawa, Kusatsu City, Shiga Prefecture
The year 2015 is the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II. The suffering caused by the atomic bombings and the inhumane consequences of nuclear weapons are not issues limited to the A-bombed nation or issues of the past.
As citizens of the only country that has experienced atomic bombings, we must contribute to enhancing the world’s awareness of the horror of nuclear weapons, the preciousness of peace, and the happiness to live in good health.
We would like to continue working in solidarity with Mayors for Peace and pledge to help bring about a lasting peace, maintain the three non-nuclear principles as our national creed, and call for the abolition of nuclear weapons.
21. Daisaku Kadokawa, Mayor of Kyoto City
Seventy years have passed since the atomic bombings in which many precious lives were lost. As mayor of Kyoto, with its motto, a “City Open to the Free Exchange of World Cultures,” I would like to convey the memories of the war to the next generation and promote mutual exchange among cities and citizens in Japan and overseas, believing that fostering mutual understanding and free exchange among the people of the world will lead to building peace.
For more than one thousand years, Kyoto has accumulated and handed down the power of our citizens, of culture and of history. With this power, Kyoto continues to strive to expand the circles of exchange for peace.
22. Tsuguo Kitagawa, Mayor of Habikino City, Osaka Prefecture
The abolition of nuclear weapons and lasting peace in the world are aspirations shared by all.
We must continue reminding people of the tragedy of war and the preciousness of peace in order to prevent the same mistake from occurring again and to bring about a world in which everyone can live in happiness.
As the 70th anniversary of the end of the war approaches, we would like to renew our determination and devote ceaseless efforts in a proactive manner to build a peaceful society for children who will take the lead in the next generation.
23. Kazumi Inamura, Mayor of Amagasaki City, Hyogo Prefecture
The city of Amagasaki will celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2016. We must never repeat the tragedy of war in the future, for the next 100 years, 200 years, and the years beyond.
Survivors of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki live in our city, too. With support from many citizens and organizations, we are now filming their testimonies for DVD to pass them on to future generations. This is a responsibility we all share, those who live today, to hand down a peaceful world without war to the future. We will make diligent efforts to bring about a peaceful world and a spiritually-rich society.
24. Tomoko Nakagawa, Mayor of Takarazuka City, Hyogo Prefecture
With the passing of 70 years since the end of World War II, are we forgetting that tragedy? Are we following a similar path that led us into war?
We must never forget the hell Hiroshima saw that day, the tremendous sadness Japan experienced, and the countless victims of World War II around the world. We must make every effort to prevent our children and all of humanity from suffering from such a tragedy again.
We would like this determination to be shared by everyone in the world. In this milestone year of the 70th anniversary of the end of the war, let us not forget the past, and let us overcome all difficulties and move forward together to the future to build a peaceful society without nuclear weapons and without war.
25. Ken Yamanaka, Mayor of Ashiya City, Hyogo Prefecture
The city of Ashiya adopted a “Nuclear-Free Peace City Declaration” on October 15, 1985, and based on the intent of this declaration, we have pursued a variety of activities. In addition to these efforts, Ashiya joined Mayors for Peace on July 1, 2011 and has taken part in its activities, such as a signature drive which calls for the start of negotiations for a nuclear weapons convention, poster exhibitions on the facts of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, and silent prayers in memory of the A-bomb victims. We will continue to tell the tragedies of Hiroshima and Nagasaki to younger people so that what happened will not be forgotten in the course of history. We will also continue to make strenuous efforts to help bring about the abolition of nuclear weapons and make the 21st century a “peaceful century” without war.
26. Katsuhito Noshi, Mayor of Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture
Including the massive air raid on July 26, 1945, the city of Matsuyama suffered as many as 20 air raids during World War II, which burned most of the city and killed a large number of people.
Now that 70 years have nearly passed since the end of the war, the sad memories of the past tend to be buried in our daily lives. It is, however, particularly important today, when we live affluent and peaceful lives, to make further efforts to bring about a lasting peace. We must now renew our determination not to repeat such a tragedy.
27. Kuninori Takechi, Mayor of Iyo City, Ehime Prefecture
Almost 70 years have passed since the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, which deprived many people of their precious lives in an instant and left huge scars on these cities.
The ravages of civil war and conflict, however, still persist in many parts of the world, and nuclear weapons are still a tremendous menace to the human race. We would like to work with the City of Hiroshima and others to continue our peace activities, earnestly hoping that our wish for the abolition of nuclear weapons will be shared by everyone in the world and that a lasting peace for the world will be realized.
Finally, I would like to offer my deepest condolences to the victims of the atomic bombings and my sympathy to those who still suffer from the aftereffects.
28. Tsuneyuki Mitamura, Mayor of Yame City, Fukuoka Prefecture
An atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima on August 6, 1945 and on Nagasaki on August 9, taking the precious lives of more than 210,000 people. Seventy years have passed since then, but the survivors are still struggling with pain and suffering. We should not forget these facts.
There is a flame burning at the Peace Plaza in Hoshino-mura, Yame City. The late Tatsuo Yamamoto brought back to his home this fire he found in Hiroshima in the aftermath of the atomic bombing, carrying the flame inside a traditional hand warmer, and kept it at home in secret to pray for the repose of the A-bomb victims, hoping that this fire would be a guidepost to world peace. When our municipalities were merged, Yame City took charge of this precious “Flame of Peace,” receiving it from Hoshino-mura with a firm commitment to carry on Mr. Yamamoto’s will and Hoshino-mura’s initiative for peace. In this way, the flame continues to burn today in Hoshino-mura, Yame City.
Lasting peace is what all human beings wish for. Japan, which has firsthand experience of the tragedy of nuclear weapons and the horrible harm caused by radiation, must have strong determination to prevent this tragedy from happening again and convey our wish to future generations.
We pledge to continue our proactive efforts to promote the city’s peace projects in order to help bring about a peaceful society.
29. Yoshikazu Tsukabe, Mayor of Imari City, Saga Prefecture
The precious lives of so many were lost in the two atomic bombings in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, and many survivors are still suffering from the aftereffects.
Next year will be the 70th year since the atomic bombings. With the survivors aging, all of us living today have an obligation to continue conveying the importance of peace to future generations so that such a tragedy will never be repeated.
I sincerely hope that the activities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki and the member cities of Mayors for Peace will spread widely in the world and that a peaceful society free of nuclear weapons and war will be realized.
30. Tomihisa Taue, Mayor of Nagasaki City
The citizens of Nagasaki, including the survivors of the atomic bombing, have been calling for a world free of nuclear weapons, hoping that the tragedy of the bombing on this city will never be repeated. There remain, however, more than 16,000 nuclear warheads in the world.
The danger of nuclear weapons is not limited to what happened in the past in the A-bombed cities. This is an issue relevant today and in the future of our world. The city of Nagasaki will continue working with you to call for the abolition of nuclear weapons and a lasting peace.
31. Kenji Kuroki, Mayor of Hyuga City, Miyazaki Prefecture
Japan is the only country that has experienced atomic bombings. The abolition of nuclear weapons is what the people of Japan, and of the world, wish for.
Since the city of Hyuga adopted a “Nuclear-Free Peace City Declaration” in 1985, we have been promoting peace projects to enhance our citizens’ awareness of peace, including organizing A-bomb exhibitions and inviting A-bomb survivors to share their experiences of the atomic bombings. Next year we will undertake projects to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the atomic bombings and the end of the war to call for the total abolition of nuclear weapons.
32. Hiroyuki Mori, Mayor of Kagoshima City
Aspiring for the total abolition of nuclear weapons and the realization of lasting peace in the world, the city of Kagoshima adopted a “Peace City Declaration” in February 1990. We have also pledged never to repeat the tragedy of war.
Today, the horror of atomic bombs and the disaster of war must be discussed with many people and remembered and passed on to future generations.
As the 70th anniversary of the atomic bombings and the end of the war approaches, we renew our determination to continue sending peace messages in Japan and to the world.
33. Akira Uema, Mayor of Nishihara Town, Okinawa Prefecture
Next year will mark the milestone 70th anniversary of the atomic bombings in that disastrous Pacific War and the end of the battle in Okinawa.
As you know, Okinawa Prefecture is the only Japanese prefecture that experienced a ground war involving its citizens. More than 200,000 people were killed and their property destroyed. In the town of Nishihara, too, more than 5,100 people, amounting to 47 percent of the population, lost their precious lives.
The abolition of nuclear weapons, which menace the existence of human beings, is a paramount concern for everyone in the world. As citizens of the only country that experienced atomic bombings, we must sustain the movement calling for the abolition of nuclear weapons and make continued efforts toward this end.
Our town would like to strengthen its solidarity with you and pray for advancing the movement which calls for the abolition of nuclear weapons and for the early realization of a peaceful society free of nuclear weapons and military bases.
We must not forget the experiences and the memories of war. In 1992, our city adopted the “Sapporo Peace Declaration” to express our belief that peace is the most important thing for the welfare of citizens. Each year in Sapporo, children, who will build our future, write messages of peace. Melodies are also composed for these messages so they can be sung in chorus. In this way, as they sing these songs with their messages, we want children to continue reflecting on the tragedy of war and the importance of peace.
The citizens of Sapporo will continue working with the peace-loving citizens of the world to help bring about the abolition of nuclear weapons and realize a peaceful world.
2. Seiichi Aizawa, Mayor of Misato Town, Miyagi Prefecture
Nearly 70 years have passed since the atomic bombings which took the precious lives of so many people. Each year, the town of Misato sends junior high school students to Hiroshima or Nagasaki and carries out peace education activities so that young people, the builders of the future, understand the preciousness of peace.
It is our responsibility to protect all living things and nature and to hand down to future generations a safe and secure environment. The people of Misato will continue to stand united, sending out strong appeals in order to maintain this beautiful and peaceful planet for the generations to come.
3. Sanjuro Abe, Mayor of Yonezawa City, Yamagata Prefecture
The “Snow Lantern Festival” is an important effort by our citizens, an event held every February in the city of Yonezawa. The festival was started by those who came back from the battlefields of World War II as a way of praying for the repose of the war dead and for lasting peace in the world, in the memory of friends who did not return. Next February will mark the 39th festival.
Each time we see the lights lit in the snow, as prayers for peace, we are convinced that our nation must pursue disarmament, not a military buildup, and that Japan must make further efforts to advance peace in the world by making international contributions and promoting people-to-people exchanges.
4. Koichi Yokoyama, Mayor of Numata City, Gunma Prefecture
Almost 70 years have passed since the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. As Japan is the only country that has experienced atomic bombings, the people of this nation must once again reflect on the fact that today’s prosperity was built on the sacrifices of many victims who were deprived of their precious lives. We must convey to our future generations and to the world our determination not to repeat this tragic history.
Nuclear weapons remain a serious menace to the human race. I call for the immediate abolition of all nuclear weapons in the world, hoping that we will realize a genuine and lasting peace.
5. Yoshiaki Kawai, Mayor of Kawagoe City, Saitama Prefecture
August 6, 2015 will mark the 70th anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, the first nuclear attack in human history. I would like to offer my deepest condolences to the victims of the atomic bombing and my sincere sympathy to the survivors who are still suffering from the aftereffects.
I will continue to call for the abolition of nuclear weapons and for the realization of lasting peace in the world, a hope shared by people everywhere. As a member of Mayors for Peace, I will make further efforts with our citizens to advance these goals.
I send sincere good wishes for the continued prosperity of the International Peace Culture City, Hiroshima.
6. Kazuo Warabi, Mayor of Sakura City, Chiba Prefecture
The year 2015 will mark the 70th anniversary of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. It will also mark the 20th year since the city of Sakura enacted its peace ordinance. Based on this ordinance, we have sought to teach young people about the tragedy of war and the importance of peace, sending “Sakura Peace Missions,” comprised of junior high school students, to the A-bombed cities and pursuing various projects such as relating experiences of the war to elementary school children. We would like to continue our efforts to convey the importance of peace to many more people and unite with other cities of the world to abolish nuclear weapons.
7. Yasuo Ozaki, Mayor of Higashiyamato City, Tokyo
During the Pacific War, many citizens of Higashiyamato became victims in the three major air raids that took place in February and April of 1945. On the walls of the former Hitachi aircraft factory substation in our city, there remain countless holes from machine-gun fire and bomb shrapnel, conveying to visitors the fierce attacks and the horror of that war.
Higashiyamato adopted a peace city declaration in 1990. We are determined to work together with the people of the world to bring about lasting world peace and a world free of war and nuclear weapons.
8. Morimasa Murakami, Mayor of Musashino City, Tokyo
Seventy years have passed since the first air raid on Musashino on November 24, 1944. In 1982, Musashino issued a declaration to assert its status as a nuclear-free city. In 2011, our city designated November 24 as Musashino City Peace Day to offer condolences to the war dead and to teach future generations about the tragedy of war and the preciousness of peace.
The city of Musashino and its citizens will continue to promote peace activities, pray for lasting peace in the world, and help hand down to children a peaceful future free of nuclear weapons and war.
9. Masami Ishikawa, Chiyoda City, Tokyo
The city of Chiyoda, located in the heart of Tokyo, has a population of about 850,000. It is visited by three million people every day. Our city issued the “Chiyoda International City Declaration” in 1995 to contribute to creating lasting world peace. As mayor of the city, I will continue calling for the abolition of nuclear weapons, highlighting the importance of peace and the horror of war, so that the tragedy of the atomic bombings will never be repeated.
10. Takaaki Yamazaki, Koto City, Tokyo
In the milestone year of the 70th anniversary of the atomic bombings, I offer my deepest condolences to the many victims of the atomic bombings and my sincere sympathy to those who are still suffering from the aftereffects.
As most people in Japan today were born after the end of the war, we would like to make special efforts next year so that the tragedy of war and the importance of people’s lives and peace will be remembered by future generations. With this in mind, I would like to join the citizens of Hiroshima in pledging to work for the abolition of nuclear weapons and for peace.
11. Toshio Kayama, Mayor of Sagamihara City, Kanagawa Prefecture
Almost 70 years have passed since the tragic atomic bombings that took place during World War II, but there are still conflicts in many parts of the world as well as huge stockpiles of nuclear weapons. The people of Japan all aspire for the abolition of nuclear weapons and for the realization of lasting peace. This aspiration must be conveyed to the world. To provide a better future for our children, who will play major roles in the future, we would like to join the citizens of Hiroshima and walk a new path that leads to a peaceful world.
12. Tsuneo Suzuki, Fujisawa City, Kanagawa Prefecture
In 1982, the city of Fujisawa adopted a declaration which calls for peace and the abolition of nuclear weapons, and we have been making earnest efforts to promote a variety of peace projects. In June 2014, the convention marking the 30th anniversary of the National Council of Japan Nuclear Free Local Authorities, which jointly works with Mayors for Peace, was held in our city. This was the first time that the Council’s convention took place outside the A-bombed cities.
In the 70th year of the atomic bombings, I would like to join other cities in contemplating peace issues, and promoting peace, fully recognizing the roles played by cities other than the A-bombed cities, so that Hiroshima and Nagasaki will not be relegated to the past. Together with the citizens of Fujisawa, I would like to hand down to future generations our strong wish for the abolition of nuclear weapons and for the realization of a lasting peace.
13. Shunsuke Kusuyama, Mayor of Shimoda City, Shizuoka Prefecture
Japan, the only country to have experienced atomic bombings, must lead the world in calling for the abolition of nuclear weapons. This will be a step forward to a peaceful world without nuclear weapons. Without abolishing nuclear weapons, and renouncing the use of force including these arms, it will be impossible to bring about a peaceful world without war, the aspiration of the A-bombed cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Hoping to see a world in which everyone can live in peace and security, I would like to make efforts to enhance the world’s awareness of the horror of nuclear weapons and hand down a peaceful world to future generations.
14. Akira Nyumura, Mayor of Myoko City, Nagano Prefecture
In 2009, the city of Myoko adopted a “Nuclear-Free Peace City Declaration,” hoping that all living things on earth can live in peace, embraced by the riches of nature. We would like to work with people everywhere in calling for the abolition of nuclear weapons, which destroy precious lives and the natural environment in an instant, and appealing for lasting peace in the world.
I admire A-bomb survivors for the enormous efforts they have made to promote peace and realize a world without nuclear weapons and war, despite their health concerns. I offer best wishes for their continued health and success.
15. Akio Okada, Mayor of Chikuma City, Nagano Prefecture
The abolition of nuclear weapons and lasting peace in the world are hopes shared by us all.
As the only country that has experienced atomic bombings, Japan must tell people in the world about the tragedy of Hiroshima and Nagasaki and send a strong message that we must learn from the past and never repeat the same mistake. Japan must play a leading role to bring about a world where everyone can enjoy genuine peace and equal human rights.
In 2005, the city of Chikuma adopted a declaration to create a safe and peaceful city, with the aim of improving the peace, safety, and welfare of our citizens. As pledged in the declaration, we will continue calling for the importance of lasting peace without war.
16. Ryugo Imai, Okaya City, Nagano Prefecture
Lasting peace and the abolition of nuclear weapons are wishes of everyone in the world. As most people in Japan were born after the end of the war, there is concern that they may forget the tragedy of war and the horrifying consequences of nuclear weapons. Japan is the only country to have experienced atomic bombings, and therefore we must continue telling the world about the horrifying nature of nuclear weapons and the suffering of the survivors.
I believe that if we continue calling for lasting world peace and the abolition of nuclear weapons, together with Mayors for Peace, our efforts will eventually become powerful enough to move the world.
17. Michihiko Kunishima, Mayor of Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture
In 2013, the city of Takayama in Gifu Prefecture designated September 21, which is the United Nations’ International Day of Peace, as “Takayama City Day of Peace.”
As a city which promotes international tourism, Takayama would like to foster mutual understanding in Japan and abroad through exchanges pursued with our spirit of hospitality and carry out various activities such as ringing peace bells together with other municipalities and temples to create strong momentum with everyone to bring about a lasting peace without nuclear weapons.
18. Tamotsu Nagase, Mayor of Kitanagoya City, Aichi Prefecture
Almost 70 years have passed since that hot summer when people were forced to endure untold suffering. On this occasion, I would like to offer my sincere condolences to the victims of the atomic bombings.
It is our obligation to make persistent efforts to promote peace in the international community so that human beings can coexist.
The city of Kitanagoya believes that educating the next generation about the horror of nuclear weapons and the tragedy of war will sow seeds of hope to bring about world peace. We actively promote peace projects such as sending “peace messengers” to Hiroshima and will continue our efforts to help build a lasting peace.
19. Toshiyuki Tanaka, Mayor of Yokkaichi City, Mie Prefecture
In this milestone year of the 70th anniversary of the atomic bombings and the end of World War II, I would like to offer my sincere condolences to the victims of Hiroshima and Nagasaki and all the victims of war who lost their precious lives.
Living in this age, we have a duty to learn from the tragic history of the war and to protect peace. With this in mind, I renew my resolve to make every effort to strengthen the solidarity among the municipalities to abolish nuclear weapons and to bring about lasting peace in the world.
20. Wataru Hashikawa, Kusatsu City, Shiga Prefecture
The year 2015 is the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II. The suffering caused by the atomic bombings and the inhumane consequences of nuclear weapons are not issues limited to the A-bombed nation or issues of the past.
As citizens of the only country that has experienced atomic bombings, we must contribute to enhancing the world’s awareness of the horror of nuclear weapons, the preciousness of peace, and the happiness to live in good health.
We would like to continue working in solidarity with Mayors for Peace and pledge to help bring about a lasting peace, maintain the three non-nuclear principles as our national creed, and call for the abolition of nuclear weapons.
21. Daisaku Kadokawa, Mayor of Kyoto City
Seventy years have passed since the atomic bombings in which many precious lives were lost. As mayor of Kyoto, with its motto, a “City Open to the Free Exchange of World Cultures,” I would like to convey the memories of the war to the next generation and promote mutual exchange among cities and citizens in Japan and overseas, believing that fostering mutual understanding and free exchange among the people of the world will lead to building peace.
For more than one thousand years, Kyoto has accumulated and handed down the power of our citizens, of culture and of history. With this power, Kyoto continues to strive to expand the circles of exchange for peace.
22. Tsuguo Kitagawa, Mayor of Habikino City, Osaka Prefecture
The abolition of nuclear weapons and lasting peace in the world are aspirations shared by all.
We must continue reminding people of the tragedy of war and the preciousness of peace in order to prevent the same mistake from occurring again and to bring about a world in which everyone can live in happiness.
As the 70th anniversary of the end of the war approaches, we would like to renew our determination and devote ceaseless efforts in a proactive manner to build a peaceful society for children who will take the lead in the next generation.
23. Kazumi Inamura, Mayor of Amagasaki City, Hyogo Prefecture
The city of Amagasaki will celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2016. We must never repeat the tragedy of war in the future, for the next 100 years, 200 years, and the years beyond.
Survivors of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki live in our city, too. With support from many citizens and organizations, we are now filming their testimonies for DVD to pass them on to future generations. This is a responsibility we all share, those who live today, to hand down a peaceful world without war to the future. We will make diligent efforts to bring about a peaceful world and a spiritually-rich society.
24. Tomoko Nakagawa, Mayor of Takarazuka City, Hyogo Prefecture
With the passing of 70 years since the end of World War II, are we forgetting that tragedy? Are we following a similar path that led us into war?
We must never forget the hell Hiroshima saw that day, the tremendous sadness Japan experienced, and the countless victims of World War II around the world. We must make every effort to prevent our children and all of humanity from suffering from such a tragedy again.
We would like this determination to be shared by everyone in the world. In this milestone year of the 70th anniversary of the end of the war, let us not forget the past, and let us overcome all difficulties and move forward together to the future to build a peaceful society without nuclear weapons and without war.
25. Ken Yamanaka, Mayor of Ashiya City, Hyogo Prefecture
The city of Ashiya adopted a “Nuclear-Free Peace City Declaration” on October 15, 1985, and based on the intent of this declaration, we have pursued a variety of activities. In addition to these efforts, Ashiya joined Mayors for Peace on July 1, 2011 and has taken part in its activities, such as a signature drive which calls for the start of negotiations for a nuclear weapons convention, poster exhibitions on the facts of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, and silent prayers in memory of the A-bomb victims. We will continue to tell the tragedies of Hiroshima and Nagasaki to younger people so that what happened will not be forgotten in the course of history. We will also continue to make strenuous efforts to help bring about the abolition of nuclear weapons and make the 21st century a “peaceful century” without war.
26. Katsuhito Noshi, Mayor of Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture
Including the massive air raid on July 26, 1945, the city of Matsuyama suffered as many as 20 air raids during World War II, which burned most of the city and killed a large number of people.
Now that 70 years have nearly passed since the end of the war, the sad memories of the past tend to be buried in our daily lives. It is, however, particularly important today, when we live affluent and peaceful lives, to make further efforts to bring about a lasting peace. We must now renew our determination not to repeat such a tragedy.
27. Kuninori Takechi, Mayor of Iyo City, Ehime Prefecture
Almost 70 years have passed since the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, which deprived many people of their precious lives in an instant and left huge scars on these cities.
The ravages of civil war and conflict, however, still persist in many parts of the world, and nuclear weapons are still a tremendous menace to the human race. We would like to work with the City of Hiroshima and others to continue our peace activities, earnestly hoping that our wish for the abolition of nuclear weapons will be shared by everyone in the world and that a lasting peace for the world will be realized.
Finally, I would like to offer my deepest condolences to the victims of the atomic bombings and my sympathy to those who still suffer from the aftereffects.
28. Tsuneyuki Mitamura, Mayor of Yame City, Fukuoka Prefecture
An atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima on August 6, 1945 and on Nagasaki on August 9, taking the precious lives of more than 210,000 people. Seventy years have passed since then, but the survivors are still struggling with pain and suffering. We should not forget these facts.
There is a flame burning at the Peace Plaza in Hoshino-mura, Yame City. The late Tatsuo Yamamoto brought back to his home this fire he found in Hiroshima in the aftermath of the atomic bombing, carrying the flame inside a traditional hand warmer, and kept it at home in secret to pray for the repose of the A-bomb victims, hoping that this fire would be a guidepost to world peace. When our municipalities were merged, Yame City took charge of this precious “Flame of Peace,” receiving it from Hoshino-mura with a firm commitment to carry on Mr. Yamamoto’s will and Hoshino-mura’s initiative for peace. In this way, the flame continues to burn today in Hoshino-mura, Yame City.
Lasting peace is what all human beings wish for. Japan, which has firsthand experience of the tragedy of nuclear weapons and the horrible harm caused by radiation, must have strong determination to prevent this tragedy from happening again and convey our wish to future generations.
We pledge to continue our proactive efforts to promote the city’s peace projects in order to help bring about a peaceful society.
29. Yoshikazu Tsukabe, Mayor of Imari City, Saga Prefecture
The precious lives of so many were lost in the two atomic bombings in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, and many survivors are still suffering from the aftereffects.
Next year will be the 70th year since the atomic bombings. With the survivors aging, all of us living today have an obligation to continue conveying the importance of peace to future generations so that such a tragedy will never be repeated.
I sincerely hope that the activities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki and the member cities of Mayors for Peace will spread widely in the world and that a peaceful society free of nuclear weapons and war will be realized.
30. Tomihisa Taue, Mayor of Nagasaki City
The citizens of Nagasaki, including the survivors of the atomic bombing, have been calling for a world free of nuclear weapons, hoping that the tragedy of the bombing on this city will never be repeated. There remain, however, more than 16,000 nuclear warheads in the world.
The danger of nuclear weapons is not limited to what happened in the past in the A-bombed cities. This is an issue relevant today and in the future of our world. The city of Nagasaki will continue working with you to call for the abolition of nuclear weapons and a lasting peace.
31. Kenji Kuroki, Mayor of Hyuga City, Miyazaki Prefecture
Japan is the only country that has experienced atomic bombings. The abolition of nuclear weapons is what the people of Japan, and of the world, wish for.
Since the city of Hyuga adopted a “Nuclear-Free Peace City Declaration” in 1985, we have been promoting peace projects to enhance our citizens’ awareness of peace, including organizing A-bomb exhibitions and inviting A-bomb survivors to share their experiences of the atomic bombings. Next year we will undertake projects to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the atomic bombings and the end of the war to call for the total abolition of nuclear weapons.
32. Hiroyuki Mori, Mayor of Kagoshima City
Aspiring for the total abolition of nuclear weapons and the realization of lasting peace in the world, the city of Kagoshima adopted a “Peace City Declaration” in February 1990. We have also pledged never to repeat the tragedy of war.
Today, the horror of atomic bombs and the disaster of war must be discussed with many people and remembered and passed on to future generations.
As the 70th anniversary of the atomic bombings and the end of the war approaches, we renew our determination to continue sending peace messages in Japan and to the world.
33. Akira Uema, Mayor of Nishihara Town, Okinawa Prefecture
Next year will mark the milestone 70th anniversary of the atomic bombings in that disastrous Pacific War and the end of the battle in Okinawa.
As you know, Okinawa Prefecture is the only Japanese prefecture that experienced a ground war involving its citizens. More than 200,000 people were killed and their property destroyed. In the town of Nishihara, too, more than 5,100 people, amounting to 47 percent of the population, lost their precious lives.
The abolition of nuclear weapons, which menace the existence of human beings, is a paramount concern for everyone in the world. As citizens of the only country that experienced atomic bombings, we must sustain the movement calling for the abolition of nuclear weapons and make continued efforts toward this end.
Our town would like to strengthen its solidarity with you and pray for advancing the movement which calls for the abolition of nuclear weapons and for the early realization of a peaceful society free of nuclear weapons and military bases.
