Later this month, the world will mark the first anniversary of the “entry into force” of the United Nation’s Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons.
The TPNW became part of international law on January 22, 2021 after 50 countries ratified it.
And, we celebrated that day. Indeed, there were events in more than 100 cities in the U.S., and many more across the globe.
On Friday, January 21, 2022, from 9 am to 10 am, we will return to Livermore Lab to memorialize its first anniversary. Counties are continuing to join the TPNW. Peru ratified the Treaty last month, on December 23, becoming the 59th country to do so. This spring will see the first meeting of the States Parties to the Treaty. The President-designate of the meeting is Austria’s Alexander Kmentt. The Treaty is on the move. We have momentum on our side!
The nuclear weapons states are not happy. In particular, the U.S. government has placed itself in opposition to the TPNW. But a vibrant movement to promote the TPNW – and to bring our country into compliance – is taking hold. This movement includes some federal legislators, state representatives, local leaders, and hundreds of groups representing millions of people.
We must seize the moment… and build the movement.
And, you can help. On January 21, 2022 come to Livermore Lab and hold a banner. Write a letter to the editor of your favorite paper. Write your Senators and Representatives. Or, take other creative nonviolent action that will inspire you and others. Promote the TPNW. Together, we can do this!