Ridding the World of Nuclear Weapons

A UUCPA Faith In Action Task Force

Second Wednesday of each month in Room A at 7:00 p.m.

Purpose

The purpose of this task force is to take advantage of recent developments to promote complete nuclear disarmament – to work to rid the world of nuclear weapons.

Background

Several events have come together to produce this opportunity:

The global warming problem and the expected expansion in the use of nuclear power
The threat of nuclear proliferation posed by Iran and North Korea
A growing awareness of the threat of nuclear terrorism
Recent statements by religious and political leaders in support of abolishing nuclear weapons
A major review of US nuclear weapons policy that is due at the end of 2009
The 2010 renewal of the endangered Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty
A new US president who has publicly stated that the goal of eliminating all nuclear weapons will be a central element in the nuclear policy of his administration

Yet the public, even in a place as well-informed as the Bay Area, is surprised to learn that leaders are even thinking about doing away with nuclear weapons. And when informed, too many people seem to be skeptical that it will ever happen.

There is certainly reason to be skeptical. Under favorable conditions, the process is difficult and will take years to complete. A nuclear-free world will require whole new mutual security arrangements. Furthermore, the economy, conflicts in the Middle East, global warming, competition for natural resources, health care, immigration, and other major problems are all crying out for attention.

Still, this moment provides an unprecedented opportunity to act and prevent what has been called the “ultimate preventable catastrophe.” Our political leaders have to be made to know that the public cares. The purpose of the proposed educational events is to contribute to making people in the mid-Peninsula aware of this great possibility, and to provide the grass-roots support that can make things happen.

Progress and plans

The Task Force has decided to coordinate with other groups in our area, and to host at least two public events at our church during this year. One of these will be an interfaith panel discussion by local religious leaders on the morality of nuclear weapons and the theory of nuclear deterrence in the 21st century. Another will be a public lecture by a recognized authority in the area of nuclear disarmament and international security.

To become involved

The Task Force meets at 7:00 PM on the second Wednesday of each month in Room A. Join us, or contact Dick Duda for more information.

Unitarian Universalist Church of Palo Alto