A French Polynesian lawmaker, Hinaméra Cross, visited Nagasaki on December 12, where she engaged with atomic bombing survivors and discussed the devastating consequences of nuclear testing conducted by France. This visit marked a poignant moment as Cross is not only a politician but also a victim of the nuclear experiments, having been diagnosed with leukemia, which she attributes to the aftereffects of these tests.
Between 1966 and 1996, France carried out approximately 193 nuclear tests across the region, significantly impacting the local population's health. During her visit, Cross exchanged insights with the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Survivors Association, emphasizing the importance of solidarity and collective action against nuclear weapons. Cross stressed the isolation faced by residents of French Polynesia concerning their struggles with nuclear fallout, stating, "There’s no equivalent to the survivor's notebook for us; we don’t even refer to ourselves as nuclear victims."
Cross’s emotional engagement with the survivors deepened the impact of her visit. While visiting the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum and honoring victims at the Peace Park, Cross listened intently to the narratives of those who survived the bombing. Tearfully expressing her sorrow, she remarked on how sharing experiences with Nagasaki’s survivors strengthened her resolve to combat nuclear issues back home. She shared aspirations to invite survivors to French Polynesia to raise awareness about the global anti-nuclear movement.
The discussions addressed the necessity of nuclear disarmament beyond mere deterrence, proposing mutual collaboration between Japan and French Polynesia to advocate for this cause. Nagasaki survivor Tanaka Shigemitsu echoed this sentiment by highlighting the historical ties of suffering and resilience between the two regions, stating, "It is important for us to form connections, just as our predecessors did after the tragedies of war. We must work together to bring international attention to the issues surrounding France's nuclear tests."
This commitment to international advocacy against nuclear weapons was emphasized throughout Cross’s visit. She expressed frustration over the lack of momentum on nuclear disarmament initiatives within her country, showing eagerness to energize public sentiment through shared experiences of trauma and survival. Cross remarked, "The movement to abolish nuclear weapons is not as active as it should be. It’s imperative to revitalize the conversation by showcasing firsthand experiences of those impacted."
Her visit to Japan reflects not just personal healing but also political advocacy. By fostering dialogues among survivors and bolstering connections with activists across borders, Cross aims to mobilize collective action against nuclear proliferation. With this purpose, she hopes to instill change within the fabric of her society, encouraging her fellow citizens to recognize the severity of the nuclear legacy left by France.
Moving forward, the emphasis remains on building networks not only for remembrance but also for activism. By bridging communities affected by nuclear trauma, Cross aims to ignite broader movements advocating for both healing and resolution to injustice. It’s through these connections and shared narratives of pain and resistance, reiterated at meetings and remembrances, where real momentum can build against the backdrop of historical suffering and resilience.
Through these efforts, Cross positions herself as both advocate and ally, pushing against the silence surrounding nuclear issues within French Polynesia. The heartfelt connections made during her visit could serve as the foundation for powerful dialogues, igniting awareness and advocacy within her community and beyond.