The late Member of Parliament Jeton Anjain and the residents of Rongelap Atoll profoundly impacted the history of the Marshall Islands by orchestrating their own evacuation from the radioactive islands utilizing Greenpeace’s Rainbow Warrior ship 40 years ago. This significant event was spotlighted this week as Greenpeace’s flagship, Rainbow Warrior III, arrived in Majuro, celebrating the anniversary of the evacuation just weeks before the infamous bombing of the original Rainbow Warrior ship by French agents.
The evacuees had been living in hazardous conditions following the US’s Bravo hydrogen bomb test in 1954, which released radioactive fallout over Rongelap Atoll, leading to long-term health issues within the community. For decades, these residents faced medical advice and decisions made by US officials, often dismissing their concerns regarding radiation exposure and health risks, even as they experienced high rates of thyroid tumors, cancers, and miscarriages.
The ceremony welcoming the Rainbow Warrior III was attended by top leaders from the Marshall Islands government, local Rongelap authorities, and community members, acknowledging the long-standing partnership with Greenpeace during their darkest times. “In our darkest time, Greenpeace stood with us,” stated MP Hilton Kendall, reflecting on the historical support provided to the people of Rongelap.
Jeton Anjain, a trained dentist and advocate for the community, spearheaded efforts to evacuate the entire Rongelap population after realizing the dangers they faced. His collaboration with Greenpeace resulted in a well-coordinated evacuation plan that prioritized the safety of the residents, leading to successful relocation efforts to Mejatto Island.
Despite the numerous adversities faced during the first years of resettlement, including hardship and lack of resources, the relocation marked a turning point for the Rongelap community, allowing them to reclaim control over their future after years of reliance on external entities. This act of self-determination not only highlighted the severe health impacts caused by nuclear testing but prompted the US Congress to allocate funds for further studies and health assessments for the Rongelap population.
Forty years later, while many of the Rongelap Islanders remain unable to return to their ancestral homeland due to contamination, their resilience continues to inspire an ongoing dialogue about justice and recognition for the harms caused by past nuclear testing. The presence of the Rainbow Warrior in Majuro symbolizes ongoing efforts for advocacy and cooperation within the Pacific region, highlighting challenges that still need addressing.
As the Rainbow Warrior III prepares to depart for Mejatto Island to commemorate the anniversary of the evacuation, it also serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting communities impacted by nuclear legacies. The enduring spirit of the Rongelap community showcases their hope for a sustainable and just future within the broader context of environmental justice in the region.
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