The Science of Peace and Disarmament: Youth Conference
This year marks the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima — a pivotal moment in world history. In recognition of this anniversary, and in the spirit of global peace and education, we invite students to join us for a day of reflection, dialogue, and curriculum enrichment.
This youth conference launches the peace walk, “Remembering Hiroshima – 80 km for 80 Years”, and we are honoured that Mi’kmaq water protectors will open the events with a water ceremony and recognition of all we need to protect together for a sustainable future.
Who?
Representatives (4–5 students per high school) from Nova Scotia high schools (Grades 10–12).
Please register now to hold your spot — space is limited.
When?
Monday, September 15, 2025
Arrival: 9:30–10:00 AM
Departure: 2:00 PM
Lunch provided
Where?
Thinker’s Lodge, Pugwash, Nova Scotia
The first Pugwash Conferences on Science and World Affairs were held at Thinker’s Lodge. These conferences to “Eliminate Nuclear Weapons” were initiated by Bertrand Russell and 10 scientists and humanitarians who authored the Russell–Einstein Manifesto in 1955. Albert Einstein sought to warn the world about the catastrophic dangers of nuclear weapons and advocate for peaceful resolutions to international conflicts.
What can we do together?
As community organizers, we hope to bring together a new generation to engage with the Pugwash story. On the 80th anniversary of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the unprecedented threat of nuclear war remains. Yet it is precisely the ongoing global efforts that have prevented further use of nuclear weapons since August 6 and 9, 1945.
What to Expect
- Keynote talks on nonviolence and connections to peace education, school culture, nuclear disarmament, and local issues of reconciliation and reparation
- Inspiring guest speakers and youth presentations
- Hands-on activities related to educating for peace — from the school environment to the international stage
- Time for discussion, reflection, and collaboration — including Canada’s “nuclear weapons free school” initiative
- Historic tour of Thinker’s Lodge, exploring its legacy in the peace movement
- Local lunch provided
Register
Contact
Kathrin Winkler
902-237-5709
winkler.kathrin2@gmail.com
Mi’kmaq Water/Land Protectors Leading the Peace Walk
- Dorene Bernard
- Marian Nichols
- Amy Maloney
Hosts
- Principal Shawn Brunton, Pugwash District High School
- Theresa Kewachuk, Pugwash Park Commissioner, Thinkers’ Lodge
- Kathrin Winkler, Nova Scotia Voice of Women for Peace
Speakers
- Lia Holla
- Reva Joshee
- Theresa Kewachuk
Facilitator
Natalie Abdou