It seems a sad milestone to celebrate - 50 years of anti-nuclear protest. Not the protesting bit, but that 50 years later insanity still prevails in our governments and there are approximately 27,000 nuclear weapons in the world.
This Easter marks the 50th anniversary of the first legendary march on Aldermaston, the UK nuclear weapons laboratory. It was a four day march from London in snow and rain and one of the biggest protest movements ever to emerge in Britain.
I wasn't even born then but have always wished I’d been around for those early days of anti-nukes protest. Something about the energy and momentum of the movement that kick-started the test ban and disarmament treaties and fighting for the such a basic human need - to live in peace.
Unfortunately we need to kick-start a new disarmament process. This time last year parliament voted to go ahead with plans for a new fleet of nuclear armed submarines. So I’m going to get my chance, and so are you, to join in with people marching on Aldermaston.
CND is inviting everyone to join in an anniversary march at Aldermaston. We need you, your friends, families, neighbours, colleagues, everyone you can get out to say we don’t want another 50 years living under the nuclear shadow.
CND is calling on people to come out on Easter Monday 24th March and join hands to surround the base and bear witness to the UK’s very own WMD factory. Bring a group of friends or come on your own and join in the festivities that will include music, speakers and refreshments.
CND is providing coaches from around the country to help get you there, you can find out more on their site. See you there.
