For whom do we bear witness
On 21st October 1966 a slag heap careered down the mountainside of Aberfan, taking with it everything in its path, including Pantglas Primary School and the lives of 116 children and 28 adults. The consequential behaviour of the UK government and the boss of the National Coal Board did nothing to lighten the suffering. Instead, it only added to the anger and grief of the people.
The way those responsible failed to respond, caused immeasurable anger. And despite all the naming and shaming, no one; absolutely no one, was jailed. Absolutely no one was held to account. They should have hung their heads in shame. Along with all those who failed to recognise the grief. Who failed to recognise the suffering. Who simply added dynamite to an already explosive situation. And as for those who tried to protect their own skin, whilst 116 children had been buried alive, all I can say is, thank God it wasn’t your children. But it was never going to be. Was it?
Whilst the voices of many, are silenced every single day, my voice will not be. I want to make a difference. I have hopes for a better future. I am sure you do too.
