WOMEN IN BLACK is a protest for peace wearing black
and in silent protest against militarism and violence. It started in 1998
by Israeli and Palestinian women against the occupation of the Palestine.
This formula spread to over 150 countries across the world, such as former
Yugoslavia, India, Indonesia, Turkey, Denmark, the United States and the
United Kingdom. The color black and silence signify resistance against violence
and mourning for the victims of violence. Women In Black Belgrade was nomited
in 2001 for Nobel Peace Prize.
WOMEN IN BLACK started in Japan after 9・11, 2001.
Women of diverse generations and careers gathered in Tokyo to protest every
Sunday in Ginza against the US-led attack in Afghanistan. Since last October,
WOMEN IN BLACK TOKYO has organized a bi-weekly vigil on every first and
third Friday in Shinjuku so as to protest against the Japanese Military
(Emergency) Bill as well as the US-led global militarization. WOMEN IN BLACK
TOKYO will stand this week on Friday, March 21 from 19:00-20:00 at Shinjuku
South Exist Plaza Next to the Flags Bldg.
We demand the Japanese government to withdraw its
support for the possible war in Iraq and to instead play an active role
in bringing peaceful resolutions to the threat of mass-destructive weapons.
We are united in the understanding that the control by power is not only
a product of certain armed groups but is woven throughout our history and
society.
Women in Black Tokyo
March 18, 2003 |