Origami Cranes: A Symbol of Hope and Peace in a Post-Nuclear World

Origami Cranes: A Symbol of Hope and Peace in a Post-Nuclear World

Origami cranes have transcended their paper form to become an enduring symbol of hope and peace, particularly in the aftermath of the US atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in August 1945. This symbolic metamorphosis finds its roots in the poignant yet hopeful story of Sadako Sasaki, a young girl whose legacy echoes through time.

At the time of the devastating bombing, Sadako Sasaki, merely a two-year-old child, miraculously survived despite being just one kilometre from the center of the Hiroshima blast. A decade later, a cruel twist of fate struck when she was diagnosed with leukemia. During her hospitalization, she discovered a Japanese legend promising that folding 1,000 paper cranes would grant a wish. Determined to make a miraculous plea for recovery, Sadako began folding dozens of cranes daily, utilizing any paper she could find, even resorting to medicine wrappings in her fervor.

Despite her tireless efforts, Sadako's condition deteriorated, leading to her untimely passing at the tender age of 12. Her legacy, however, endured, inspiring a movement toward peace and a world without nuclear weapons.

In a significant stride towards this vision, the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN) was honored with the Nobel Peace Prize in 2017 for its pivotal role in advocating for a treaty-based prohibition of nuclear weapons.

This year, on #origamiday, we reflect on the enduring power of the humble origami crane and its profound message. The story of Sadako Sasaki serves as a reminder of the enduring human spirit, resilience, and the ongoing pursuit of a world liberated from the threats of nuclear devastation.

To delve deeper into this tale and its global impact, explore more [here](https://bit.ly/3b1MuWT).

Join us in commemorating #origamiday and celebrating the message of hope, peace, and the resilience of the human spirit.