August 2015

To The People of Okinawa Japan and the Inter-Island Solidarity Peace Camp:

We, the undersigned faith-based, peace activists, environmentalists, and other civil society members and organizations, offer our solidarity as you celebrate the 2015 Inter-Island Solidarity Peace Camp in Okinawa, Japan, September 19-22. We join you in calling for the protection of Okinawa, the surrounding islands, and the entire Asia=Pacific region from expanded militarization which threatens all of Creation.

We believe your on-going public witness is a sign of hope that another world is possible in which people of goodwill and faith from all cultures and religions can join together in a shared vision for peace. We celebrate your courage and creativity in expressing your voices for peace and for the wholeness of life.

We join you in calling for global peace and a world free of violence in all its forms, especially the militarization of the Asia Pacific. History tells us that military bases threaten ecosystems, cultural heritage, and the livelihoods of the local community, with women and children being particularly vulnerable. Military bases, missiles, missile defense systems once again place islands such as Okinawa, Jeju Island and Taiwan directly in the crosshairs of war between larger more powerful nations.

We are inspired by your witness and stand with you in joy and hope that peace and the integrity of all Creation is possible.