In early August of 2019, KPTZ reporter Chris Bricker had the opportunity to speak with author and activist Mary Wynn Ashford M.D., who has been a leader in the international peace and disarmament movement for several decades. The conversation has significance for our community now, because of ongoing efforts of local activist and anti-nuclear advocate, Doug Milholland in a proclamation announced recently by the Jefferson County Board of Commissioners, as had the Port Townsend City Council and the Jefferson County Board of Health done before them, in support of the the United Nations Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons.
The Treaty was adopted on July 7, 2017, opened for signature on September 20, 2017, and entered into force on January 22, 2021. It has now been signed by 50 nations. The Board’s Proclamation encourages the United States to participate. January 22, 2021 was declared by the Board of Commissioners a day of celebration and support of this historic milestone. KPTZ is pleased to reprise our timely conversation with Mary Wynn Ashford.