In view of the current conflict across the world, Cymdeithas y Cymod is raising the profile of the White Poppy among political representatives alongside the traditional Red Poppy during this year's Remembrance Day events.
The White Poppy is a symbol of commitment to peace and serves as a reminder of all victims of war, honoring those who have lost their lives and emphasizing the urgent need for long-term peace.
The White Poppy has been worn since 1933, first produced by members of the Cooperative Women's Guild who had suffered profound losses during the First World War. Their intention was to send a clear message of "never again," rejecting the glorification of war and instead promoting peace. In today’s world, marked by ongoing conflict and displacement, Cymdeithas y Cymod believes the message of the White Poppy is more relevant than ever.
"Remembrance Day is not only an opportunity to honour those who have sacrificed their lives in past conflicts, but also a moment to reflect on the urgent need for peace," said Rob Idris, Cymdeithas y Cymod Chair. "By incorporating the White Poppy, MS’s can signal a commitment to seeking non-violent solutions to conflict and to remembering all victims of war—both military and civilian."
The peace charity is also asking councils for the White Poppy to be incorporated into Remembrance Day events such as in Aberystwyth and Bristol, with Cymdeithas y Cymod hopes that more councils will follow suit this year. The organisation’s White Poppy initiative is conducted in collaboration with the Peace Pledge Union, which supports distribution and helps direct any profits toward peace education work.
Cymdeithas y Cymod invites councils to support this call for peace by recognising both the White and Red Poppies in this year’s Remembrance events. As conflicts continue worldwide, this gesture would underline the importance of honouring those who have fallen while also championing the cause of peace.
For more information on obtaining White Poppies, councils are encouraged to contact the Reconciliation Society, which, in partnership with the Peace Pledge Union, is distributing the poppies across Wales.
