In Chicago: Testimonies of Korean Atomic Bomb Victims and International People’s Tribunal Promotion Events

Helen Plum Library, School of the Art Institute of Chicago, DePaul University, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, USA https://abombtribunal.campaignus.me/34/?q=YToxOntzOjEyOiJrZXl3b3JkX3R5cGUiO3M6MzoiYWxsIjt9&bmode=view&idx=159506865&t=board

Following the conclusion of the 3rd Meeting of States Parties (MSP) to the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW), the delegation of Korean Atomic Bomb Victims and SPARK traveled to Chicago. The schedule in Chicago was organized through the invitation of Yuki Miyamoto, a professor at DePaul University and member of the International Organizing Committee, and the arrangements of Brad Wolf, Co-Coordinator of the International Organizing Committee.

On March 9, a roundtable discussion was held at the Helen Plum Library, hosted by Kathy Kelly, President of World BEYOND War. After the event, Kathy Kelly joined the International Organizing Committee. The event was attended by 15 participants, who listened to testimonies from the victims and learned about the International People’s Tribunal. One participant, identifying as a second-generation Jewish Holocaust survivor, expressed sympathy by saying, “As an American, I apologize for the pain you have endured.” Additionally, journalist Robert C. Koehler, who attended the event, wrote and posted an article online titled “The Journey Beyond Nukes Begins with an Apology.“

On the morning of March 10, an event was held at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. After listening to the testimonies of Korean atomic bomb victims, one student shared, “It is not just about numbers; hearing the stories from those who directly experienced it really touches my heart.” Another student said, “I was uncertain about taking this class, but now that I’ve attended, I feel like I’ve learned so much. I think this is such an important topic.” The student also inquired about the main goals of the International People’s Tribunal.

Later that same day, at 6 PM, an event was held at DePaul University, attended by around 80 people, including Korean Americans from the first, second, and third generations. After hearing testimonies from the victims and learning about the International People’s Tribunal, students who had visited Hiroshima presented and discussed their works.

On March 11, an event was held at the University of Illinois Chicago, organized by Professor Michael Jean. He later became a new member of the International Organizing Committee and expressed his intention to participate in next year’s International People’s Tribunal. Several participants also pledged to take part in next year’s tribunal after the event.

We would like to express our deep gratitude to all those who worked tirelessly to create meaningful connections, raise awareness about the plight of the Korean atomic bomb victims, and promote the International People’s Tribunal in Chicago.