Features

by Hiromi Morita, Staff Writer

In September 2022, when the coronavirus pandemic had slowed a bit, I paid a visit to the city of Moscow, Idaho, in the United States. A Japanese language instructor at the University of Idaho, who had heard my testimony previously, invited me to speak there. I went to the United States on the condition that I would have the opportunity to speak to children.

There is a reason I wanted to talk to children in the country that dropped the atomic bombs. A few years ago, I had a chance to speak with an American child who had come with their family to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, located in the city’s Naka Ward. At the end of my talk, the child asked me what country had dropped such a terrible bomb. I answered, “I’m sorry, but the United States did.” In response, they began to cry. After that experience, I decided to speak with children whenever possible. It is truly difficult to convey the wishes of the A-bombed Hiroshima to children in a country where they are taught the bombings were necessary. Nevertheless, they are the ones who can change the future.

When I arrived in Moscow, I saw a sign posted for my event at the University of Idaho that read “Remember Hiroshima,” written in Japanese. Numerous gatherings had also been planned. I gave my A-bomb testimony to adults as part of the event, and I also had a chance to speak to elementary and junior high-school students about my experience in the atomic bombing by projecting onto a screen a picture-story show created by students at Motomachi High School in Hiroshima. I not only talked about the devastation caused by the A-bombing but also told the story of Floyd Schmoe, an American who built houses for A-bomb survivors on his own initiative. I conveyed the importance of people forgiving each other through dialogue. After I shared my story, the children lined up in front of me and conveyed to me that they had heard my message loud and clear.

Six months later, in March 2023, executives at the University of Idaho visited Hiroshima, leading to a reunion with Ms. Ogura. With that, communication has continued to deepen.

After sharing my story, the students in Idaho worked on translating my picture-story show into English. They will complete it this summer and bring it to Hiroshima with them on a visit. I would be happy if I was able to ignite a spark in their hearts.

Having been engaged in peace activities for more than 40 years, I believe that the A-bombed Hiroshima has the power to move people. At the summit meeting of the G7 (Group of Seven industrialized nations), which is set to begin in the A-bombed city, I want the leaders to recognize that power. To prevent the repeat of that evil, I hope they will listen to the regrets of those who died and face the reality of what happened because of nuclear weapons.

(Originally published on May 17, 2023)