During January there will be a chance to see the Belief and Action exhibition at the Morlan Centre.
Part of the Cymru dros Heddwch-Wales for Peace project, the exhibition explores the reasons why some conscientious objectors chose to take the difficult path of resisting conscription in the First World War. It looks at the problems they faced, especially when hundreds of thousands of men believed it was their duty, and sacrificed their lives, to fight for their country. What makes an individual take a stand when they feel conscience won’t allow them to follow a certain path?
It also explores the legacy of these actions. In the hundred years since the First World War, how have people in Wales followed their beliefs with action in the search for peace?
Morlan has invited the exhibition to the centre as part of its Programme of Events. “As a centre for faith and culture, Morlan organises various events throughout the year,” said Carol Jenkins, Morlan Manager. “The goal is to raise awareness of different issues involving faith, social affairs, human rights, and so on. We have already organised several events – often in collaboration with others – to mark the centenary of the First World War focusing in particular on conscientious objectors and peace issues – these have ranged from a very moving evening with Côr Gobaith and Louche Theatre to an art exhibition by Ceredigion Art Society.”
The exhibition is designed to be flexible and portable, and has already visited a number of locations across Wales – including Pontypridd, Cardiff, Lampeter and Carmarthen, to a fantastic response. It is supported by a range of digital and schools resources which includes the Pearce Register of Conscientious Objectors: a fascinating database showing the records of some 860 Welsh men who took their case for exemption from conscription to a military tribunal.
Funding for the Wales for Peace project is through the Welsh Government’s Cymru’n Cofio Wales Remembers 1914-1918 programme. This commemorative programme provides an opportunity to reflect on the causes of the First World War and its transformational impact on Welsh life and society.
Morlan has also organised a bilingual event – Geiriau’n Gweithredu / Words in Action – for the general public at 7.30, Monday, 22 January to coincide with the exhibition. Following on from the theme of the exhibition, a panel of people will share their experiences as peace activists in a combination of live chat and video. They will explain why they chose this path, what difficulties they faced and how they overcame those difficulties. Translation facilities will be available; admission is free.
The exhibition can be seen at Morlan (in the main hall) 4-25 January. It will be open Wednesdays to Fridays, 10.00-12.00 & 2.00-4.00 and Saturdays, 10.00-1.00. Admission is free.
Further Information
If you would like to find out more about the exhibition or the Wales for Peace project, or if you have a story to add to their digital collection, contact Ffion Fielding, Exhibitions and Engagement Coordinator, ffionfielding@wcia.org.uk, 029-2082-1051.