What can youth do about the dangers of nuclear weapons? As it turns out, quite a bit. This past week, more than 150 students gathered at the Museum to share how they are taking action for peace at the 4th Annual Youth Nuclear Peace Summit.
The idea behind this summit arose when three friends grew deeply concerned about the threat of nuclear weapons, especially as tensions rose between the U.S. and North Korea in 2017. They wanted to do something and knew that students could make a difference if they united. That idea grew into the first Youth Nuclear Peace Summit. Created by students, for students, the event seeks to empower the next generation to create a world free from nuclear weapons.
This year’s summit featured students from seven schools across North America. Throughout the two-day event, students learned from expert speakers from Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom and Canada. They also participated in hands-on workshops and connected with their peers.
A highlight of the event was when students presented their own research. Topics included busting myths about nuclear weapons, an exploration of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons, and the impacts of nuclear mining and testing on Indigenous communities.
The event gave students an opportunity to practice critical thinking skills, learn how to drive change through civic engagement and gain confidence with leadership skills. Now, the students will be able to put those skills to use advocating for peace and making the world a safer place for everyone.
The Canadian Museum for Human Rights is proud to be a partner of this event, along with several other partners, including Rotary D5550 WPP, SGI Canada, Manitoba Association for Rights and Liberties, International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War Canada, ICAN, Reverse The Trend and the University of Winnipeg Department of History, The Canadian Commission for UNESCO, The Conflict and Resilience Research Institute Canada, Rotary Club of Canada and Peace Days.