Wednesday Demonstration Speech

Katherine

Hello everyone. We are members of the Youth English Docent Program at the House of Sharing. Since May, we have gathered every two weeks to learn about the history of the Japanese military sexual slavery system, the importance of human rights, and the pursuit of peace through lectures, discussions, and reflection. We are grateful for the opportunity to speak to you today.  

Angeleen

Thirty-four years ago, the first Wednesday Demonstration began as a call for justice for the women who endured the horrors of the Japanese military sexual slavery system. Today, we are proud to stand with you at the 1,761st consecutive Wednesday Demonstration here in Seoul. 

Sally

For thirty-four years, people have gathered here week after week, through heat, rain, and snow, united in the pursuit of justice. Until the Japanese government takes responsibility for the crimes against humanity committed against the victims of the “comfort women” system, we will continue to stand together in solidarity.

Christina

This March, we lost Grandmother Kang Il-Chul, one of the last surviving victims of the Japanese military sexual slavery system. With her passing, all of the grandmothers who once lived at the House of Sharing have now left us. Today, only a small number of survivors remain, still waiting for the justice they have sought for decades.

Jihyo

We are running out of time. Fewer and fewer survivors are able to stand here and share their stories in their own voices. With each passing day, month, and year, that opportunity only grows smaller.

Sophia

Each of us has a role to play. We hope our resolve will never waver in the face of those who seek to deny our grandmothers' experiences, their suffering, and the truth of history.

Steven

At the House of Sharing, we will continue this work for as long as it is needed. We will continue to remember, we will continue to speak, and we will continue to stand with the survivors in their pursuit of justice. Thank you.