Pictures at an Exhibition: Building Bridges for Peace

Demonstrators Allen Oliver (left) and Kenneth Sawyer (right) on the Damariscotta bridge. The dialogue begins. Photo: Oliver Pierce

by Gretchen Noyes-Hull, Bridges for Peace

Sometimes attendance at an event is itself the event. For some of the more than 150 people who attended the opening reception for Olive Pierce's photographic exhibit held at the American Legion Hall in Damariscotta on a rainy June 1, that was true. It is no ordinary exhibit, for it is co-sponsored by the American Legion Wells Hussey Post #42 and by Bridges for Peace, two groups who found themselves uncomfortably together for many Sundays on the Damariscotta Bridge during the war. When verbal confrontation became physical, weeks of active peacemaking began. New signs appeared that read "Peace Starts Here," "Seek Dialogue," "Build Bridges," and a few tentative bridge crossings were made. We were sometimes rebuffed, but over the next weeks we crossed again. We began to recognize each other, we shared greetings and then very careful careful conversation. In the 40 black and white photographs, the emotions of both sides are clearly visible, as is the pain of division during these difficult weeks.

The tensions are still there for many. Peacemaking is a risky process. But dialogue has begun. At the reception, I was told by a member of the Legion: "We may be back on the bridge if there is another war". My heart warmed- perhaps we would be on the same side! "We will be on opposite sides of the bridge again". My heart sank. "But at least now we will be able to talk to each other."

We make small steps from where we are. Only if we can talk will we be able to change the direction that this country is taking,for we can't do it alone. And we must take every opportunity to do so now, during this brief time before the next war or the election divides us again too solidly to do so.

"On the Bridge-A Community Speaks" will be on exhibit at the Skidompha Public Library, Main Street in Damariscotta from June 6 to July 6.

— Gretchen Noyes-Hull, Bridges for Peace

 

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Back to Peace Talk Index, Summer, 2003