Saturday, April 18, 2009

♪ International Conference against the Asia Pacific Missile Defense and for the End of the Arms Race ♪ - 21 min 30 sec - 5 MB

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I had the privilege to translate and interpret for the Japanese delegates who participated in an International Conference against the Asia Pacific Missile Defense and for the End of the Arms Race held in Seoul, Korea. It was three full days of conferences and visits to military sites. I have learned A LOT. Seeing is believing.

The Asia Pacific Missile Defense budget is now eating up most of the money of the local defense programs. North Korea's satellite launch was used as a way to stifle our voices of concern but we have not been stopped.

I am learning many new things from Bruce Gagnnon who is the head of the Global Network Against Weapons and Nuclear Power in Space. He once was a US soldier in the Air Force during the Vietnam war. The anti-war peace movement during that time had a big effect on him while he was inside the base. He heard the voices of the demonstrators outside of the base and began to change. His story of transformation is both beautiful and inspirational.

Listen to what he has to say in today's podcast.

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Bruce Gagnnon and Lotus, delegates from the USA

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Korean Delegates

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In the Bus visiting the Demarcation line between South and North Korea

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North Korea from the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)

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Young Korean couple at the DMZ

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With Nepali delegate on the Freedom Bridge

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Bruce and the Korean organizer

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Messages for peace at the DMZ

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Imjingak, 7km from the Demarcation Line

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Taking photos from only within the yellow line were permitted. How strange!

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Bruce and myself