Setsuko Thurlow, a name that resonates with courage and dedication, has led an extraordinary life that spans continents, decades, and a relentless pursuit of peace. Her story is one of survival, activism, and numerous prestigious awards that recognise her unwavering commitment to a more peaceful world
EARLY LIFE AND THE HIROSHIMA TRAGEDY
Born in 1932 in Hiroshima, Japan, Setsuko Thurlow grew up in a city marked by its rich history and culture. Little did she know that her life would be forever changed on that fateful day, 6th August, 1945. Setsuko was just 13 years old when the United States dropped an atomic bomb on Hiroshima. She miraculously survived the devastating explosion, emerging from the rubble with her mother and sister.
The horrors of witnessing the aftermath of the atomic bomb left an indelible mark on Setsuko’s psyche. She became a hibakusha, a survivor of the atomic bombing, and her personal experiences fueled her determination to prevent others from enduring similar suffering.
DEDICATION TO PEACE ACTIVISM
Setsuko Thurlow’s commitment to peace and disarmament began to take shape in her teenage years. She joined the Hiroshima-Nagasaki Student Group and actively participated in efforts to raise awareness about the devastating consequenses of nuclear warfare. Her resilience and advocacy earned her a scholarship to study in the United States, where she continued her activism.
In 1954, Setsuko relocated to Canada to pursue her education, eventually becoming a dedicated educator herself. Her passion for peace remained unwavering, and she joined organizations like the Hiroshima-Nagasaki Relived (HNR) Campaign and the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament (CND), tirelessly working to promote a nuclear-free world.
INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION AND AWARDS
Setsuko Thurlow’s tireless dedication to nuclear disarmament and her ability to effectively convey the urgency of the issue through her personal experiences earned her a series of prestigious awards and international recognition.
Setsuko Thurlow’s remarkable journey is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of determination in the face of unimaginable adversity
The Nobel Peace Prize (2017): One of the most significant milestones in Setsuko Thurlow’s life came in 2017 when she, along with the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN), was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. This accolade recognised her exceptional contributions to the global movement for nuclear disarmament. Setsuko Thurlow’s moving and heartfelt acceptance speech at the Nobel ceremony touched the hearts of many, as she recounted her harrowing experience as a Hiroshima survivor and called for the complete elimination of nuclear weapons. The Nobel Committee’s decision to honor her and ICAN emphasised the urgency of disarmament and underscored the importance of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW), which she had played a pivotal role in bringing to fruition.
The Order of Canada (2018): In recognition of her lifelong commitment to peace, Setsuko Thurlow was appointed a Member of the Order of Canada in 2018. This prestigious honour is bestowed upon Canadian citizens who have made significant contributions to their country and society at large. Setsuko’s unwavering dedication to advocating for a world without nuclear weapons and her role as a global peace ambassador made her a deserving recipient of this distinction.
The Arms Control Association’s Distinguished Service Award (2019): Setsuko Thurlow received the Distinguished Service Award from the Arms Control Association in 2019. This accolade acknowledges her exceptional efforts in advancing arms control and disarmament, particularly her role in advocating for the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons. The Arms Control Association, a renowned organisation dedicated to addressing the challenges posed by weapons of mass destruction, honoured Setsuko for her outstanding contributions in promoting global security and peace.
Honorary Doctorate Degrees: Setsuko Thurlow’s impact as a global peace advocate and educator has also been recognised through the conferral of honorary doctorate degrees from several institutions. Her alma mater, the University of Toronto, and other universities have honoured her with these degrees in acknowledgment of her commitment to fostering a safer world through disarmament education and advocacy.
She joined the Hiroshima-Nagasaki Student Group and actively participated in efforts to raise awareness about the devastating consequences of nuclear warfare
Setsuko Thurlow’s numerous awards and honours serve as a testament to her enduring dedication to peace and her ability to inspire change on a global scale. Her legacy continues to motivate individuals and organisations to work tirelessly towards a world free from the threat of nuclear weapons, reminding us that even in the face of immense challenges, the pursuit of peace is a noble and achievable endeavour.
A LEGACY OF INSPIRATION
Setsuko Thurlow’s remarkable journey is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of determination in the face of unimaginable adversity. Her life serves as an inspiration to countless individuals worldwide who aspire to make a positive impact on global issues.
As a Hiroshima survivor, a dedicated peace activist, and a Nobel laureate, Setsuko Thurlow’s legacy will continue to shape the discourse on nuclear disarmament and inspire future generations to strive for a world free from the threat of atomic weapons. Her life’s work reminds us that change is possible when driven by unwavering passion and a commitment to creating a more peaceful and just world.