I always knew that no real account of British history could ignore CND. Now that has been shown to the world by Danny Boyle and his Olympics opening ceremony. Founded in 1958, CND emerged into a rapidly changing world of decolonisation and the establishment of the welfare state, bringing health and education to all.
Social mobility and full employment unleashed people’s cultural and political potential and CND was inextricably linked to the social radicalisation of the time. The early Aldermaston marches against nuclear weapons, gave voice both to widespread popular dissent and to the social rebellion of the youth of the time.
It was through the early mobilisations of CND that the radical politics of what were to become the new social movements were first expressed. And we have continued throughout our history, up to today, to oppose nuclear weapons and work to change government policy. Yes we have been attacked and vilified, but we will carry on until we win, no matter what forces are ranged against us.
Thank you, Danny Boyle, for recognising the significance of this extraordinary movement.