December 1 is celebrated as Prisoners for Peace Day, established by War Resisters International (WRI). It is a day when the world’s attention is drawn to people imprisoned for their commitment to peace and non-violence. These include conscientious objectors, anti-war activists and those who have fought to end violence.

This year, for the first time, Belarusian peace prisoners were also on the international list of peace prisoners, including Belarusian officer Denis Urad. He received 19 years in prison for daring to speak out against the use of the army to suppress peaceful demonstrations in Belarus.

In March 2021, while on duty, Denis photographed a secret letter from the Belarusian Minister of Interior ordering troops to be sent to protests. He passed this information to independent sources to prevent violence. Thanks to his courage, the planned intervention of the military caused a public outcry and the forceful action was cancelled.

However, for his action, Denis was charged with treason and sentenced to a long prison term. His story became a symbol of the struggle for peace in the face of brutal repression.

American activist Kathleen, a fighter for peace and non-violence, supported Belarusian peace prisoners, including Denis. She handwrote solidarity letters to prisons in Belarus, hoping that the letters would reach the prisoners and bring them support.

Kathleen shares her thoughts,

‘I handwrote the letters because I hope that receiving a handwritten letter will bring support to the prisoners. Perhaps it will be a special reminder to them that someone remembers them and appreciates their courage.’

Kathleen emphasises that the letters are not just words, but an act of solidarity and belief in justice. She urges people around the world not to forget those who have suffered for fighting violence and to continue to support them in order not to let the world forget the importance of peace and the human dignity of peace activists in Belarus.

Every letter, every thought of support brings closer the day when the voice of nonviolence will be heard.

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