Banning the Bomb, Smashing the Patriarchy

Activists and diplomats from around the world gathered at the United Nations two years ago to ban nuclear weapons. This book tells the story of their collective activism, a story of courage and hope, and lessons learned that will inform and inspire others working for social justice. The movement rejected what the nuclear-armed governments were offering and sought to build something new, generating and promoting ideas, arguments, and frameworks that would disrupt mainstream myths and narratives about nuclear weapons, institute new international norms and laws, and ultimately set in place key mechanisms for the abolition of the atomic bomb.

Format: Hardback
Length: 438 pages
Publication date: 25 June 2021
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield International

Two years ago, at the United Nations in New York, activists and diplomats gathered to take a bold stance against nuclear weapons. This book delves into the captivating story of their collective activism, encompassing courage, hope, and valuable lessons learned. It serves as a source of inspiration for those engaged in social justice endeavors, offering valuable insights and strategies for building a more equitable and peaceful world.

The journey to ban the bomb is intertwined with the unwavering dedication of diplomats and activists who brought a legacy of protest and vision to the international arena. These individuals have played a pivotal role in shaping the narrative surrounding nuclear weapons, challenging the status quo and advocating for an alternative future. This movement is characterized by a powerful rejection of the nuclear-armed governments' proposals, but it goes beyond mere opposition. It is an intentional and creative endeavor to build something new. Activists and diplomats sought to generate and promote ideas, arguments, and frameworks that would disrupt mainstream myths and narratives about nuclear weapons. They aimed to establish new international norms and laws that would pave the way for the abolition of the atomic bomb.

I had the privilege of being directly involved in this work as an activist with one of the partner organizations of the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN). As a representative of the Women's International League for Peace and Freedom (WILPF), I had the opportunity to participate in ICAN's International Steering Group, which serves as the policy-making body of the campaign. As a genderqueer feminist peace activist, I approached my work with ICAN with a feminist lens, bringing theories and experiences of feminist and queer activists to the forefront of the ban on nuclear weapons.

The nuclear weapon policy and discourse space often exudes a toxic masculinity that hinders progress and perpetuates harmful stereotypes. However, this movement has been a testament to the power of collective action and the ability of women and marginalized communities to challenge dominant narratives. By amplifying the voices of these groups and advocating for gender equality and social justice, activists and diplomats have made significant strides toward a more inclusive and peaceful world.

The story of banning the bomb is a testament to the resilience and determination of human beings. It reminds us that we have the power to shape our destiny and create a world free from the threat of nuclear weapons. By learning from the experiences of activists and diplomats, we can continue to build upon this movement and work towards a future where peace, security, and justice are cherished by all.

Weight: 710g
Dimension: 146 x 222 x 34 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781786614896