40 years ago in the summer of 1981, a group of 36 women, some with their children, walked from Cardiff to RAF Greenham over 100 miles away. They carried banners proclaiming their opposition to the storage of nuclear weapons at the site. After arriving they realised the march alone would not get the attention the cause required and they began to set up camp, where many women stayed and lived for almost 20 years, taking non-violent action and arranging protests, sometimes attracting over 50,000 participants.
As on that first day, banners were made and used over the following years; a central tool for the women to visually communicate their messages and demands. The banners paint a rich picture of peace campaigning, collective action and women’s activism.
Join People’s History Museum either onsite or online in conversation with author of Women For Peace, Charlotte Dew and Curator of The Peace Museum, Charlotte Houlahan, as we delve into the history of banners at Greenham and explore the significance of craftivism and collective action.
Buy your copy of Women For Peace and the first 50 online orders will receive a free tote bag. Simply choose the ‘book and tote bag’ option when adding to cart. UK orders only.
Suitable for ages 16+
In partnership with Four Corners Books and The Peace Museum
Women for Peace brings together images of protest banners displayed at the Greenham camps, often elaborately crafted in memorable and powerful designs. It celebrates the creativity of thousands of women who protested at Greenham Common and whose struggle continues to inspire activists today.
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