The Wales for Peace exhibition allows visitors to explore the impact Welsh communities have made towards campaigning against conflict
The Book of Remembrance will be displayed in the exhibition
This Remembrance Day marks 100 years since World War One, but closer to home, it’s an important moment to celebrate Welsh contributions to peace.
To coincide with the 80th anniversary of the Temple of Peace and Health, the Wales for Peace exhibition is open throughout November. It is the culmination of a project that has spanned four years, and gathered stories from across Wales.
Craig Owen, Head of Wales for Peace, thinks the emphasis on local activism sets the exhibition apart. “We’re constructing a timeline which will draw out the role of the people of Wales,” he says. “Often these stories are told individually, but they’ve never been illustrated alongside each other.”
The exhibition is organised by the Welsh Centre for International Affairs. Although it explores stories from the past, Chief Executive Susie Ventris-Field believes the aim is to inspire visitors to focus on the future.
“Celebrating people who aren’t always recognised shows that whoever you are, you can make a difference,” she says. “We wanted to give people the opportunity to find out about the temple’s history, but also to think about what comes next.”
Craig and Susie both emphasise the importance of Welsh internationalism. As the first Fair Trade Nation, and aiming now become the first Nation of Sanctuary, Wales is a strong advocate for world peace.
“The context of Brexit has made some divisions become clearer,” Susie says. “The echo chamber nature of social media means that you’re getting trapped in a cycle [of opinion]. Wales has been a place of sanctuary in the past, and can continue to do so. I think that’s one of the messages.”
The Temple of Peace and Health is open 9 – 5 on weekdays to allow visitors to explore the exhibition, alongside a programme of events for all ages to celebrate #Temple80. Visit the website to find out more.