Belief and Action – Remembering different voices

Whilst we remember those who lost their lives or were injured during the First World War, it is also important to remember those who opposed the conflict on grounds of their beliefs. Over 900 Welsh men and women were imprisoned during the First World War for opposing the conflict for religious, ethical or political reasons, following conscription in 1916.

The Welsh Centre for International Affairs created the Belief and Action exhibition tour to explore the diversity of views on conflict and peace, in particular the conscientious objectors of the First World War. The exhibition formed part of their Wales for Peace programme and was an important component of Cymru’n Cofio Wales Remembers 1914-1918. It visited 14 venues across Wales during 2016-18, and engaged with approximately 22,500 people through over 30 local events. In addition, four curriculum learning resources exploring perspectives on conflict were created for young people, and made available through the Hwb learning platform. Comments by visitors to the exhibition included ‘An interesting piece of Welsh history I knew nothing about’ and ‘Very informative, well produced, unbiased and thoughtful display.’ The Welsh Centre for International Affairs also worked with historian Dr Cyril Pearce to create a searchable ‘Peace Map’ of First World War Conscientious Objectors, Wales-wide, drawn from his ‘Pearce Register’ database. This new online resource can be searched by name, county, town or motivation (for opposing the First World War), and offers a means to uncover - and bring to life - the hidden histories of conscientious objectors from Wales. The UK database of over 16,500 names has been incorporated into the Lives of the First World War website. Find out more: www.ConscientiousObjectors.Wales

Left: Belief and Action exhibition, Ysgol Maesydderwen, Ystradgynlais – launch of ‘Objection Then and Now’ Curriculum Pack for Conscientious Objectors Day, 15 May 2018. Credit: Craig Owen, WCIA Background Image: Conscientious Objectors’ Memorial Stone in Wales’ National Garden of Peace. Credit: Craig Owen, WCIA

Above: RWF Museum panel showing some of the Faces of the Fallen funded by Welsh Museums Federation ©RWF Museum