2018 Japanese American Leadership Delegation Report • March 3-10 • Tokyo and Yamaguchi

Building Bridges: Celebrating 150 years of the Meiji Restoration and Japanese American History

Sunday, March 4, 2018

Dinner with Taro Kono and Parliamentary Members ur first day was spent sightseeing in Tokyo and included visits Oto Ueno Park and the Meiji Shrine, followed by a walk on the famous Takeshita Dori in Harajuku. The trip kicked off formally with a dinner hosted by Foreign Minister Taro Kono with a wide ranging group of members of the parliament. The dinner was a little different from past year's dinners as it was at a shabu shabu restaurant in the Akasaka neighborhood, but the communal aspect of the meal was a fitting start to our trip. We each had the opportunity to meet with one or two members of the parliament at our tables and gained some initial insight into the issues we would be discussing further throughout the rest of the visit. The evening culminated in the traditional trip to karaoke, whichafter some initial hesitation, was fully embraced by our delegation. The graciousness of our hosts for the evening from Minister Kono for dinner and the parliamentary members for karaoke put us at ease before our first full day of formal meetings.

3 Name Surname Editor Monday, March 5, 2018

Meeting with Princess Takamado ur delegation started our first full day of meetings at the Akasaka Estate,O residence of Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado. Our visit was just a few days after the celebration of Girls' Day, and we were fortunate to view her beautiful collection of dolls which were displayed from wall to wall. We all truly enjoyed our conversation with the Princess over tea and traditional girls day sweets. Princess Takamado took the time to get to know each and every delegate and their personal background. Having been educated in the U.K. and Canada and raised around the world, our conversation ranged from current world issues, to cultural and racial diversity, traditions, and sports. Her warmth and positive energy was felt by all of us. A memorable experience that we will never forget.

5 Luncheon with Keidanren Japan Federation of Economic Organizations

eidanren, the Japan Federation • Japanese companies directly employ of Economic Organizations, 856,100 Americans; this has an hosted a lunch meeting for estimated total impact (including direct theK delegation at its headquarters on and indirect) of approximately 1.6 March 5, 2018. The meeting began with million jobs. These are high paying opening remarks from Haruo Murase, jobs with an average annual salary of (Chair for Keidanren’s Committee on $84,373. U.S. Affairs), Shigeru Hayakawa, (Vice Chair of Keidanren), Irene Hirano • U.S. exports of goods and services to Inouye, (President of the U.S. Japan Japan exceeded $100 billion in 2016 Council), and Sheri Bryant who served with 30 states exporting more than $1 as the lead speaker on behalf of the billion to Japanese consumers. delegates. The conversation around the table was As the rest of the introductions were rich with an exchange of viewpoints made, it was apparent that many of between Keidanren and the delegates. the attending Keidanren members The common discussion themes had previously resided in the U.S. as centered around: initiatives by employees for companies with a major Japanese companies in the U.S. as presence in the U.S. good corporate citizens, the potential impact on trade relations from recent To start the discussion, an overview was U.S. policies, the lack of investment provided regarding Japan’s investments in U.S. infrastructure, adapting to in the U.S. and the employment of technological advancements and future Americans by Japanese companies. workforce concerns. Some key points include: There were many comments that • Japan is a leading investor to the because of governmental policy U.S. with foreign direct investment at uncertainty, grass-root efforts, such as $421 billion in stock and $34 billion in the JALD program, are important to annual cash flow. develop and forge personal connections

6 for the continued strength of the U.S.- U.S. talent has led to many recent Japan relations. technological research and development investments in the U.S. The delegates pointed out that in the by Japanese companies. These efforts U.S., individual states take the initiative are targeted toward advancements in to pursue economic development areas such as artificial intelligence, with global companies and do not rely appliances and the “internet of things”, heavily on Federal assistance. Local autonomous vehicles, and sustainable control also applies to infrastructure and renewable energy. funding with prioritization and funding provided at the State and Other specific issues and concerns were local government levels, and smaller discussed. These include competition amounts of funding are distributed to caused by the increasing volume the states by the Federal government. of internet sales and its impact on While Japanese companies are Japanese companies, Japan’s declining concerned about risk due to the lack population and its impact on available of investment in U.S. infrastructure, workforce and recent initiatives to U.S. companies are exposed to this risk change Japan’s education aimed to as well. broaden global studies and to gain a better understanding of external issues.

7 U.S. ParliamentaryFriendship League pening remarks were made by from the President. Councillor Nakasone Hirofumi Nakasone, President of noted that he has visited the U.S. many the Japan-U.S. Friendship League. times and engages frequently with our NineO members of the House of Councillors members of Congress. He hopes the participated in the meeting. He stressed U.S. will reconsider joining the Trans the bi-partisan nature of their organization Pacific Partnership. With regard to the and how people-to-people relationships trade deficit, particularly in the area and celebration of the 150th anniversary of of autos, he emphasized that U.S. car Japanese migration to Hawaii and Guam in manufacturers do not market well in Japan 1868 strengthen our relationship. and cars are not adapted to the Japanese market with regard to right side steering Further opening remarks from the JALD or size. He noted the success of German delegation highlighted the diversity manufacturer BMW that specifically of Japanese American experience, targets the Japanese market with their background, and geography that the product and marketing. delegation represented. This was affirmed by Natsuo Yamaguchi of the Komeito party Drawing parallels to the challenges faced who stated that he is proud of Japanese in the U.S., the discussion turned to how Americans’ variety of backgrounds and Japan is addressing budget issues in light that Japanese Americans have spread out of an aging population. Former Minister across the U.S. of Health Shiozaki responded that there are several problems facing Japan: aging Discussion opened with an inquiry to society, declining populations, and the the parliamentarian’s view of the status declining labor force. To address those of trade between the two countries in issues, they are looking for “dynamic light of the changing policy directives engagement” by the people to encourage

8 women and older people to come back Using a more holistic approach you can into the labor market. They are also trying change behaviors to a healthier, lower cost new social welfare policies (50% supported lifestyle. Along these lines, it was noted that by Japan tax payers). Councillor Inoguchi one of the things they are trying in Japan is also suggested three solutions – free birth/ "Hospital at Home" to contain costs. pregnancy, free child care, free education In closing, Councillor Nakasone raised and that these would fall under three concerns regarding the establishment of categories: 12 comfort women statues/monuments 1) mitigate the problems facing in the U.S. The government is concerned populace that Japanese students in the U.S. face 2) adapting to find new ideas for a harassment because of the statues. He smaller population and emphasized that Japan has made apology and reparations and the issue should be 3) prevent the mis-design of social settled. He asked that if we become aware of welfare programs. plans to erect new memorials or statues, to The U.S. typically has two viewpoints for please inform our consul general offices. the cost containment for health care: The JALD delegation closed the meeting 1) market strategies to contain costs by inviting the Friendship League to learn more of the diversity of the U.S and explore 2) a more holistic approach involving areas outside the East and West coasts on greater transparency in health care their visits. costs.

9 Meeting with Minister Yohei Kono and Ambassador Masaharu Kohno he delegation was honored to meet competitors. Japan is busy planning for with two long-time Japanese leaders. the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo Yohei Kono is a prominent leader in and Ambassador Kohno serves as an JapanT who has served numerous roles over Executive Board Member of the Organizing many years in the government including Committee of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign the Paralympic Games. Affairs, and Speaker of the House of Among the concerns the committee is Representatives. Ambassador Masaharu working through is the Tokyo summer Kohno has held a long career with the heat. When Tokyo last hosted the Ministry of Foreign Affairs including Olympics, it was 50 years ago and in the several ambassadorships and currently as month of October. August temperatures Special Envoy of the Government of Japan will be much different and hotter. They are for the Middle East Peace. also faced with the challenge of scheduling The informative discussion was very to appeal to the U.S. television viewing candid and open, providing the delegates audience, with American broadcasting with a rare peek into Japan’s current rights providing significant sponsorship political environment. The three main support to the events. conversation topics included the Olympic Concerns were expressed in particular Games, Japan’s national deficit, and foreign over the ballooning budget expectations. policy. The International Olympic Committee There was fresh excitement about the is now requiring budget reductions. The results of the 2018 Winter Olympics for current cost estimate is 1.35 trillion yen, Japan’s athletes, particularly for the female but it is expected that the actual amount

10 could grow to more than 2.00 trillion yen. The military question is further complicated Initial widespread excitement over hosting by the changing international picture. the Olympics is shifting to concern and Historically, Japan had been in the position criticism over the high costs. While other of helping China, but China has grown so countries are withdrawing their bids to host, rapidly that it has now surpassed Japan’s there are talks about Japan hosting a future economy. Compared to Japan, China’s Winter Olympics in Sapporo, as well as talks resources of both people and natural about hosting a World Expo in Osaka. These resources dwarf those of Japan. This rise to increasing costs and the potential for the power for China is not unforeseen and is cost of additional events were placed in the something Japan and the U.S. will have to context of Japan’s expanding deficit, now adapt to. approximately one quadrillion yen or 10.5 North Korea’s possession of nuclear trillion U.S. dollars. While Japan is currently weapons is complicated by the lack of state- able to sustain these budget deficits, there to-state diplomatic relationships. Japan is concern about the financial burden being continues to seek resolution to Japanese placed on future generations. abductees in North Korea, but has made The conversation shifted to the increasing minimal progress with little information calls for Japan’s militarization. As is well coming from North Korean leadership. known, Japan’s Constitution was constructed The rise of nationalism is becoming more with very strict rules limiting military common around the world, which is a activity. Minister Kono emphasized that concern since it can become dangerous Japan has sworn alliance with the U.S. for when the focus of a country is only on mutual protection, and it is very important domestic concerns. Both men expressed to continue that relationship. The U.S. has concerns that military competition a duty to protect world order and has the could escalate into a new arms race. ability to engage in war, unlike Japan. Minister Kono is hoping that the U.S. Now that Japan has developed economically, will take leadership but is concerned by the question has emerged: should Japan be the President’s unpredictability and the doing more in support of the joint military significant turnover in the cabinet. He relationship with the U.S.? Since the end is encouraged by the warm relationship of World War II, Japan has followed a strict between Prime Minister Abe and interpretation of the Constitution with President Trump. regard to its military. Japan is also aware of Minister Kono noted the changing world the anxiety that might be created for other and that his generation came up in the wake Asian nations with increased militarization of World War II when everything was a given Japan’s history of aggression in spite struggle due to scarcity of resources. Japan of many years of self-restraint and peace. no longer remembers those conditions and This recent peaceful history and strict what it was like to be a poor nation. constitutional interpretation is creating a He closed emphasizing the importance of serious point for debate with those who positive U.S.-Japan relations. He reminisced believe Japan needs to be more actively about his close relationship with the late engaged in both its own defense, and in the Senator Daniel Inouye and how the Senator keeping of peace through military strength helped him as a political leader in Japan. in the region. The debate in Japan is a very emotional one.

11 Meeting with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe e arrived at the Shusho the delegation in front of the whirr Kantei, a large open building, of cameras and media who were which is Prime Minister summarily dismissed before our ShinzoW Abe’s principal workplace private meeting. and residence where he often hosts The Prime Minister was beaming with cabinet members and greets world delight and thanked the delegation for leaders. When we entered the Kantei, including a visit to his home prefecture we were met with the clicks and lights of Yamaguchi. of the Japan press who cover the world Prime Minister Abe spoke about this leader’s every move. As we moved year marking the 150th anniversary through the building you could not help of the arrival of Japanese migrants to but notice the vast interior architecture Hawaii. He spoke about their dedication and all the Japanese artwork adorning in overcoming difficulties and winning the walls, including a welcoming the trust, confidence, and respect of bamboo garden atrium molded by the American people, which has led to granite and flowing water. the robust alliance between our two Our delegation was ushered upstairs countries today. Prime Minister Abe along a catwalk into a sitting room stated that many Japanese people, where you could feel the presence of including his own relatives, moved world leaders who shared the same from Yamaguchi to Hawaii. space. Prime Minister Abe entered the room and formally welcomed

12 David Ono was the first JALD representative to address the Prime Minister. He had interviewed a woman in Los Angeles who personally knew the Prime Minister many years ago before he became the Prime Minister when he lived in Los Angeles as a student at USC. She stated she was not surprised to see the level of success that the Prime Minister had reached as she fondly recalled him having the skills and a kindness for others. Sheri Bryant spoke about the emigration symposium to be hosted by the Center for Global Partnerships in Yamaguchi. The meeting with Prime Minister Abe concluded with a photo opportunity for each participant. The meeting was covered in a press release from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

13 Director-General of the North American Affairs Bureau, Ministry of Foreign Affairs t’s interesting how a conversation In a blink, we moved from what makes us can quickly move from light so similar, to what makes us so different. hearted to deeply serious. The JALD If you reside outside of the U.S., it is a Idinner at Kyoto Hyoki restaurant in question that begs to be asked. Answering Tokyo was a beautiful affair hosted by it though, fully and fairly without bias, is a Representative Suzuki. monumental if not impossible task. From delicious and elegantly styled bento What was most striking about that boxes to gorgeous sake pitchers that never question and the setting in which it was ran dry. It all helped stimulate uplifting asked, is that it exposes one of the most banter that was constant and enthusiastic. dynamic contrasts between the United Conversation revealed that though we may States and Japan…violence… America has come from opposite sides of the globe we a frightening and tragic inability to contain all deal with the same challenges and joys. it, while Japan has a remarkable ability to From the pressures of the workplace to avoid it. raising a family, we are all the same. Japan has earned the proud title of the Until suddenly a simple yet impossible safest country in the world. As visitors, question was put forth: “Why do it is amazing to see the crowds of Americans love guns?” unaccompanied young children walking

14 and taking mass transit to and from So, when you sit on the other side of the school every day, while their parents globe and see a nation that calls itself the have little worry they will return home most powerful country in the world yet safely. It’s a peacefulness an American is wrought with such sadness, it does beg parent will never enjoy. that question “why”. As we in America know, there is no satisfaction in the Last year, excluding suicide, 15,549 answer. In fact, there is no answer, only people lost their lives to a gun in the a dizzying, maddening, tragic, stubborn, United States. It is a startling number unending debate. for any country, much less a first world, civilized, global leader. The sake was endless…but it still wasn’t enough for such a sobering question. Even more startling is the contrast to Japan. With its population of 130 million, the number of gun deaths Japan deals with on an average year is 10.

15 Meeting with Yoshimasa Hayashi, Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology e were grateful that Minister Hayashi was able to fit a meeting in with our delegation as the governmentW was in the midst of budget hearings and he could be called to testify at any time. The meeting was especially helpful as Minister Hayashi represents Yamaguchi Prefecture, where we would be visiting the next day to complete our trip. He spoke fondly of his home prefecture and what he expected us to experience. Minister Hayashi moved on to speak about the Japanese education system, particularly the challenges of developing educational standards for the nation, in stark contrast to the U.S. which does not maintain a national curriculum. Where Minister Hayashi clearly took pride was in Japanʼs recent success in the Winter Olympics, and of course was looking especially forward to the much anticipated hosting of the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo. He noted the challenges of both preparing for the olympics as a host, but also the importance of Japanʼs athletes to continue to excel on the international stage.

16 Center for Global Partnership Luncheon he Japan Foundation Center Ms. Irene Hirano Inouye thanked for Global Partnership the Japan Foundation CGP for (CGP) hosted a luncheon their efforts in strengthening U.S.- Tat the historic and beautiful Meiji Japan relations and for hosting the Kinenkan Memorial Hall in Tokyo. luncheon every year. Delegate David We were joined by members of the Inoue closed the pre-lunch remarks CGP staff and special guests Ms. by introducing the delegates and Nanae Kurashige, political journalist sharing how our class reflects the with the Asahi Shinbun, and Ms. Eri changing demographics of Japanese Ishikawa, Chair of the Board for the Americans. Japan Association for Refugees. Ms. Kurashige, esteemed political We were first welcomed by host journalist, talked about the current Junichi Chano, Executive Director challenges facing Japan – slow pace of CGP, and then Ambassador of women’s advancement, the threat Hiroyasu Ando, President of the of North Korea and the importance Japan Foundation. Ambassador of bilateral U.S.-Japan relations Ando stressed the importance of in response, and the complexity U.S.-Japan relations and expressed of rising China and the stresses it his enthusiasm for our upcoming places on U.S.-Japan relations. Ms. trip to Yamaguchi, visit to the Kurashige put some hard questions Museum of Japanese Emigration to out there, challenging us to think Hawaii and the symposium on “The about the role of the U.S. in these Japanese American Experience,” mounting issues. especially given the prefecture’s Next, Ms. Ishikawa spoke on special role in the 150 year history another challenging and complex between the U.S. and Japan.

17 topic – refugees, Japanese work that her organization does to immigration policies and the assist with supporting and advocating humanitarian and realistic need for for refugees in Japan. immigrants in Japan. She shared On our way out, we visited the the eye-opening statistic that Japan stunning Japanese gardens to admire accepted only 28 immigrants in 2016 their beauty and take a group photo. and 20 in 2017 despite receiving over 20,000 applications and talked about the hurdles created to make it hard for foreigners, even those living in Japan as workers, to become citizens. It was inspiring to hear about the

18 Forum 21 he Forum 21 and JALD 2018 Mr. Umezu’s closing words were – We are meeting, the 14th of its kind, was leaders, you are leaders, and maintaining a powerful sharing of the minds U.S.-Japan relations is the most important Tof many of the top businessmen and thing we can do. companies in Japan, including many of Around the theme of strengthening Japan’s the Forum’s 1,031 alumni. Representing economy, David Ono spoke about the JALD’s delegation on the podium were United States and its long history with Denise Moriguchi, David Ono, and Laurie immigration. He implored the Forum to Van Pelt, along with Irene Hirano Inouye. learn from our success of open borders Founder and Forum President Shoichi and economic growth: be a country that Umezu opened the gathering by graciously accepts new ideas - it doesn’t have to thanking Irene and her late husband for change who Japan is. Laurie Van Pelt spoke the incredible work they have done, and about the importance of innovation, and are doing, to further U.S.-Japan relations. local governments providing micro-loans Today being his 94th birthday, he claimed to entrepreneurs as an example of great it is never too late to learn something. success in the State of Michigan. Denise Moriguchi discussed diversity of thinking, The overarching 2018 theme for Forum 21 diving deeply into the importance of was How to Re-invigorate Japan’s economy. flexibility, strong values, and diversity of What is the key to success, and how to gender, as key ingredients to long term nurture leadership in an era of change. economic success.

19 Throughout the speeches of the various • How to get around the cultural stigma of Forum 21 delegates, the overriding being an entrepreneur sentiment was the importance of the • How to accelerate cooperation and U.S.-Japan relationship and what can be partnerships with U.S. companies through learned from each other. Among topics technology exchange and investment brought up and discussed were the following: • The need for “loud” leaders in Japan who can push past challenges and make the • The challenge of changing how Japan minority voice heard thinks The 2018 JALD class has great hope in • The need to change from supply side the wisdom of Forum 21 and the ability thinking to a service economy for it to make change in Japan. We • How to nurture human skills amidst the will be watching, and continuing the explosion of artificial intelligence relationships made on this day, to support and nurture U.S.-Japan relations. • The importance of solving Japan’s childcare issue for women Dinner hosted by Deputy Chief of Mission Joseph M. Young eputy Chief of Mission, Joseph This was reinforced by the wide ranging Young hosted a dinner for conversations at dinner between JALD JALD delegates and members participants and the invited Japanese Dof the Japanese community that have guests. The invited Japanese guests established relations with the U.S. represented a wide range of interests in Embassy. Deputy Chief Young spoke of U.S.-Japan relations including technology his experience in Japan, and particularly and social entrepreneurs, academicians, of his own family who lived there and other leaders in the community. with him. He emphasized the warm The connecting thread was an interest relations between the two countries and in engaging with the United States the opportunity to host cross national and seeing how we might learn from events such as the dinner were a special one another. part of building stronger ties between our countries.

21 22 Meeting with William H. Hagerty, IV, United States Ambassador to Japan lthough Ambassador Hagerty was Also noted are the benefits of the JET program still new to this post, having been in Japan which provided young Americans the appointed in July of 2017, he was opportunities to live and work in Japan and veryA clear on his top two priorities, national have a better appreciation of the culture. security and improving our economic ties The Ambassador thought there were between the countries. He noted that currently opportunities for Japanese companies to Japan provides $400 billion to the U.S. while produce vehicles and parts in the United the U.S. provides $100 billion to Japan. With States, if they are sold in the United States. the recent passage of the Tax Reform Act, Ambassador Hagerty also acknowledged Ambassador Hagerty believed that it would that tourism is an important industry for make it more attractive to U.S. companies that both countries. had yet to invest, allowing for more flexibility under the new tax structure. He felt that the The Ambassador was sensitive to the political, current business climate was very attractive cultural, social, and economic issues to companies from both countries. surrounding the relocation of the Marine Corps Air Station from Futenma, Okinawa Ambassador Hagerty noted modification of to Guam. His thoughts were important to us the current immigration laws would be one as our fellow delegate Monica Guzman from way to address the declining workforce in Guam was well aware of the implications of Japan. Expanding immigration laws to allow this planned military base relocation. for more higher skilled level workers to work in Japan, such as those who specialize in President Trump’s decision to raise tariffs on elderly care was one example. He felt U.S. metal imports was a topic of conversation companies should consider bringing more as Japan was left with much uncertainty on American workers to Japan, especially tech its impact on whether an exemption or an companies who specialize in innovation, as exception would be given to their country. more people to people interaction between the countries would benefit both sides.

23 Luncheon with Nikkei Leaders in Tokyo

he 2018 delegates appreciated the diversity, and expanded accommodation opportunity to have an informal of different working styles, as conveyed and candid conversation about the by Janelle Sasaki, Director of EY’s People Tunique perspectives of Japanese Americans Advisory Services. living in Japan. Merle Aiko Okawara, Over lunch we learned about each of the Chairman of JC Comsa Corporation, Japanese American leaders’ careers and amazed us with her ingenuity and unique stories of their lives. Each Japanese entrepreneurialism. Like Ms. Okawara, American Leader shared insights about leaders such as Daniel K. Fujii, President their lives in America and circumstances & CEO of Trust Capital and Kathy Matsui, of how they arrived in Japan and what Vice Chair at Goldman Sachs, conveyed the brought them to Japan. They spoke of their importance of understanding the business relationship with Japan and the lives they needs and bringing your talents to bear. built since that time. Our host leaders, including USJC Chair Without exception, each of these Japanese Russell Kawahara, partner at Atsumi American Leaders were energizing, & Sakai, discussed the role Japanese optimistic, and trailblazers, not only in Americans play in light of the current their professional fields of expertise but Japanese economic strategy and focus. also in their efforts to play a role in Japan’s Japan’s aging society and relatively economic evolution. homogeneous workforce demands the need for greater innovation, gender

24 Japanese American Leaders residing in Tokyo graciously hosted the 2018 JALD for a luncheon at the New Otani Hotel.

25 Meeting with Keizai Doyukai he Keizai Doyukai, or the Japanese directly engaged in the child rearing process Association of Corporate Executives, which will also have workforce implications. welcomed the JALD group for a Japan’s need for skilled laborers and Tmeeting at the impressive Kazan Kaikan the realization of a declining workforce Conference Center. The meeting space continued to be a common theme. The need featured sweeping views of central Tokyo to attract and engage millennials into the including the Imperial Palace and the workforce is an increasing challenge given Diet Building. a different perspective on work life balance, Representing the Keizai Doyukai were H. and even work goals. One path that might Takahashi, A. Kumagai, Y. Toda, S. Yamazoe, engage younger generations is an increased H. Mitsue and Y.Ishii with welcome remarks emphasis on artificial intelligence/visual given by the Chair. Each member briefly interpretation (AIVI). introduced themselves, their roles in the The meeting ended with a summary of the organization as well as their corporate discussion and Mr. Yamazue highlighting representation. The members represented the importance that the our countries have large multi-national corporations such as as partners in trade, shared workforce, John Hancock, General Electric, Deloitte, and the need for friendly relations and Suntory Holdings and Häagen-Dazs. trade policies. As earlier determined, the meeting format Following our meeting with Keizai Doyukai, was one to be open for discussion through we proceeded to Haneda airport to embark a question and answer format. Healthy on the next phase of our trip. A quick exchange ensued on the challenges flight brought us to the city of Iwakuni, in both Japan and the United States face Yamaguchi Prefecture, where we would in attracting investment, workforce spend the rest of the trip. The first night in development, aging workforce, childcare Yamaguchi was spent at a hotel overlooking and parental care, industry diversification the beautiful Kintai Bridge, originally and gender. The gender equity topic constructed over 300 years ago. garnered the most time and attention. The distinct difference between Japanese and American corporate culture with (Right) The bridge provided a serene setting regard to gender equity may be attributed for many of us to walk across in the quiet of to cultural norms. This is slowly changing the evening and the morning and re-collect but Japan has more work to do in changing our thoughts as we had reached the mid- the mindset of and towards women and point of the trip. identifying female role models. The increasing prominence of women is forcing changes to management styles and how gender roles are defined. It is expected that a growing number of men will become more

26 27 Museum of Japanese Emigration to Hawaii ur first cultural visit in in 2000 between the Museum of Yamaguchi was to the Japanese Emigration to Hawaii Museum of Japanese and five U.S. museums. Among EmigrationO to Hawaii. The the sister museums included museum, once home to early U.S. in this agreement to facilitate immigrant Choemon Fukumoto cultural exchange and promote and his family, was small in size, by friendship between the countries American standards, but filled with is the Japanese American National an enormous amount of history, Museum. Mr. Kimoto then knowledge, pride and aloha spirit. produced a photo of Ms. Irene Hirano Inouye and two gentlemen Upon arrival, we were warmly signing the agreement in 2000, welcomed by museum director, and then surprised us with the Mr. Makoto Kimoto, and several presence of those two gentlemen at museum staff and volunteers. the museum. Mr. Kimoto talked about the early Japanese emigrant experience and We then explored the museum’s the museum’s history, highlighting exhibits on the history of the the Friendship Agreement signed pioneering Japanese emigrants

28 29 that left for Hawaii 150 years ago. materials and the generous and These first emigrants were part of a knowledgeable staff that takes government program with the sugar tremendous pride in sharing this plantations and left in search of information with those conducting work and prosperity only to be faced searching on their ancestors. In our with extremely harsh conditions delegation, two members with roots and little opportunity to thrive. in Yamaguchi worked with museum The photos, artifacts and stories staff to locate the emigration together tell of the hopes, hardships, paperwork and genealogy of their contributions, misfortunes and ancestors. The personal discovery of successes experienced by these family history cannot be compared brave Japanese emigrants. to any exhibit and was truly an amazing and memorable experience While the exhibits are impressive, for our delegates. perhaps the most special part of the museum is its extensive collection of historical emigration data and

30 31 32 Sagawa Shoyu Factory agawa Shoyu Factory in Yanai Sagawa Shoyu takes great pride in City was our second stop in the shoyu that they produce and Yamaguchi. The factory itself the traditional methods used. They Sis located in a historical area called first start with a mixture of steamed White Wall Street, which refers soybeans and roasted wheat. A mold to a street of merchant houses. is then added to the mix and left These merchant houses have a for a few days. A brine solution is “kurazukuri” architectural style then added and creates a mixture which features outer walls that are called moromi and is fermented in painted in white. This style includes large uncovered vats for 1-2 years thick earthen walls and large double in a dark cool warehouse. Sagawa doors. Sagawa Shoyu was founded Shoyu produces an even richer type in 1830 and continues to produce of shoyu which takes an additional shoyu using traditional methods. year to produce, called kanro, Our tour guide who worked in and is used specifically for sushi Seattle, Washington before retiring or sashimi. and returning to Japan was clearly The delegation clearly appreciated proud and very eager to share the the time that is taken to produce history of shoyu making for this the special types of shoyu. We long standing business. purchased many bottles of shoyu for We walked down White Wall Street, family and friends back home in a narrow cobblestone road, where the United States. Sagawa Shoyu also the founders once lived. A festival is produces different types of furikake held every July at White Wall Street which was also a popular choice and goldfish lamps are hung from for omiyage. the eaves to celebrate the event.

33 34 Center for Global Partnership Symposium

The Japanese American Experience: Commemorating the 150th anniversary of the first emigration from Japan to Hawaii

eld in the Hotel New 2011 the Tomodachi program has Tanaka in Yamaguchi sponsored more than 6,000 short- City the title for this term exchanges between Japan and Hyear’s symposium was “The the U.S. The Watanabe scholarships Japanese American Experience: provide Japanese students a year Commemorating the 150th of study in the U.S. More recently, anniversary of the first emigration the Japan-Texas Economic Summit from Japan to Hawaii”. The three in May 2018 promoted prefecture/ JALD panelists all had ancestral state partnerships. ties to Yamaguchi. This was one of Ms. Junko Nishida, Cultural the few programs on the trip that Advisor at Museum of Japanese had simultaneous translations. Emigration to Hawaii, summarized Junichi Chano, Executive Director the history of the migration and of the CGP, opened the forum the establishment of the museum by highlighting the mission of in Suo-Oshima. Between 1885 and CGP to promote cultural and 1894 about 29,000 people emigrated intellectual exchanges. This year’s from Japan with about 35% of Symposium was held in Yamaguchi them coming just from Yamaguchi, to honor the 150th anniversary followed by Hiroshima, Kumamoto of the emigration of Japanese to and Fukuoka. Yamaguchi provided Hawaii. Currently in the U.S. there a significant number of emigres are approximately 1.41 million for three reasons. 1) The Minister Japanese Americans – descendants of Foreign Affairs at the time was of those first immigrants. Now from Yamaguchi and negotiated the there are Shin-Issei, Shin-Nisei treaties with Hawaii for sugar cane and Japanese Americans are more workers, 2) Yamaguchi had a lot multilayered than ever before. Ms. of 2nd sons, who had little to stay Chano reflected that it is important for as inheritances went entirely to to look at history to learn from the firstborn son, and 3) the region the past. had suffered a devastating flood and the war and Meiji Restoration Irene Hirano Inouye introduced had created significant social and the USJC and its programs like the economic distress to the region. Tomodachi Initiative, JALD, ELP, Women In Leadership, AALD. Since the great earthquake in

35 Aloha and Gaman, by Darcy Endo- From that experience came the Omoto first Japanese American politicians. Senator Daniel Inouye was the The concepts of gaman and aloha first Japanese American in the U.S. are the “essence and commonality Senate. Since then, Hawaii has of the Japanese experience” birthed many leaders – Supreme in Hawaii. Gaman refers to Court justices, astronauts and perseverance and Aloha, besides the founder of Hawaiian Host being the Hawaiian word for Candies - Mamoru Takitani “Welcome”, also means kindness who also originally immigrated and compassion for one’s fellow from Yamaguchi. Japanese beings. Due to the growth of the cultures and traditions have sugar cane and pineapple fields been embraced and blended there was a constant need for into Hawaiian culture to form labor, which included Japanese something uniquely Hawaiian. immigration among other ethnic Jake Shimabukuro, the Hawaiian groups. Under harsh working ukulele artist is an excellent conditions, alliances between example of the blended cultures. groups formed and blended which contributed to Hawaii’s vast multi- Okagesamade is an important cultural heritage and the diversity concept in Hawaii as we recognize we see in the state today. and offer gratitude to those who came before us and shaped who we For the Japanese who stayed in became as a state and as a people. Hawaii, they opened businesses and churches and schools. Darcy’s maternal great grandfather Japanese American Incarceration: immigrated from Yamaguchi. He Never Again, by David Ono started a furniture business and taxi service in Hawaii. When WWII As a journalist, one of the topics broke out, Japanese made up about that David Ono covers the most is 37% of the Hawaiian population. the illegal detention of Japanese Too large of a group and too Americans and how the “never integrated to send to concentration again” spirit drives American camps, they were put under democracy today. In the rush martial law for three years. In to engage in World War II, fear 1942, Nisei men formed the 100th replaced fairness and government Infantry Battalion and two years propaganda not facts were used later were merged with the 442 to control public opinion. The Regimental Combat Team made up incarceration and a desire to of Nisei men from the continental prove their loyalty drove many U.S. The combined, but segregated Nisei men to serve in the army Japanese American regiment within the 100th Batallion, 442nd became the most highly decorated Infantry Regimen, and Military combat unit in U.S. history. Intelligence Service. The 100th

36 and 442nd would become the most the state of Colorado resulting highly decorated combat unit in in the ownership of several U.S. history. prominent farms owned by Japanese Americans. However, after the war, when families were released from the June focused her presentation camps and the soldiers came on the diversity of Japanese home, they continued to face Americans hailing from around racism and hate. There were few the country. Highlighted was jobs and fewer places to live but the diversity of the 2018 JALD they persevered. Years later, the group which hailed from areas of Japanese American community Japanese American populations began to organize and rally for of as little as 0.33% to as much redress. In 1980, the government as 25%. As a result, it is difficult created the Commision to claim a singular Japanese on Wartime Relocation and American experience as each Internment of Civilians, which participant has had a different began to hold hearings around the experience as a Japanese country where the World War II American. incarcerees could begin to tell their The World War II experience of stories, often for the first time. incarceration had a tremendous In August 1988, President Reagan impact on the Japanese signed the Civil Liberties Act of American community. Before the 1988 to “right a great wrong”. It was war, 75% of Japanese Americans important that the government in Seattle owned a small acknowledge the wrong that business. After their return from they did so that it will never be incarceration, only a handful of repeated. Never again. Democracy those businesses remained. is a courageous endeavor. Today, the Japanese American community is noted for its Defining Japanese Americans: high levels of education, civic The Diversity Within, by June participation, high employment Taylor rate, and marriage to non-Japanese ethnicity spouses. Yet, despite this June Taylor’s maternal family is increasing diversity and success, from the Yamaguchi prefecture, the community remains grounded and her mother immigrated in the experience of the past. In the to the U.S. after marrying wake of the 9/11 attacks, Japanese her father. As a Coloradan, she Americans were quick to stand noted that the state of Colorado in solidarity with the Arab and refused to follow Executive Order Muslim community to ensure that 9066. Colorado Governor Ralph the mistakes of Japanese American Carr’s legacy resulted in a strong incarceration not be repeated. Japanese American presence in

37 38 Although we grow distant from She noted that in fact, because the incarceration experience, of the wartime experience, many younger Japanese Americans Japanese Americans drifted away are increasingly curious about from their Japanese ties. Programs the experience. It is through the such as JALD offer the opportunity strength of community that we to rebuild those relationships maintain this historic grounding. for newer generations of Sharing our culture and passing on Japanese Americans. our values, history and traditions Dr. Minohara concluded by noting is the key to future success for the the end of the Heisei period will Japanese American community. soon be coming to a close. As Japan begins a new era, this might be the time to engage in a new Meiji Q&A and Discussion style restoration just as the one Dr. Minohara asked what are the that began 150 years ago from Japanese Americans doing to Yamaguchi prefecture to create a stand up to Trump’s immigration second opening of Japan. policies? Delegates responded that some cities are actively creating sanctuary cities to protect Symposium Reception immigrants. Japanese Americans After the incredible response in particular are responding from to “The Japanese American the context of our experience of Experience Commemorating the discrimination. We are responding 150th Anniversary of the First with counternarratives of how Emigration from Japan to Hawaii”, immigration has and continues to the JALD group joined attendees contribute to this country. for a reception in the ballroom of The contributions of immigrants is the New Tanaka Hotel. Beautifully a lesson also for Japan as noted by staged with extravagant food Dr. Minohara and expanded upon and drink, we mingled with the by Ms. Nishida. Immigration might local people and made many new be a way to revitalize some of the friends that night. To conclude the intercultural relations that were a evening, Darcy Endo addressed the result of the initial emigration to crowd, speaking to the importance Hawaii, and foster the development of diversity in furthering U.S.-Japan of person-to-person relations relations, and thanking everyone that were once more prevalent in for their interest and support. Japanese culture. Irene Hirano-Inouye closed the discussion by focusing on the transition that U.S. Japan relations have undergone over the years.

39 40 Friday, March 9, 2018 Shōin Shrine

nder a steady falling rain, the delegation visited the Shōin Shrine site of the ShoukaU Sonjuku where Yoshida Shouin taught students who went on to lead the Meiji Restoration. We walked the same paths that Yoshida Shouin and his students had 150 years before and had the opportunity to sit inside one of the classrooms. It was a fitting conclusion to the week where we had experienced the modern incarnation of the Shouka Sonjuku in meeting with Forum 21 and had engaged in our own part in the CGP Symposium.

41 The Hagi Experience

ne of the truly beautiful Every piece is unique, perfectly qualities Japan offers is its cloaked in imperfection, with high regard for tradition. bumps, cracks, rough edges, OIt embraces its past and holds on colors that meld and change with tight. It is a fascinating contrast to age. To hold a piece created by the U.S. with our constant need to this family, is to touch Japan and evolve, change, and modernize. all it stands for. That sense is brought home in a tea ceremony As our delegation continued its with the Miwas. During the tour of Yamaguchi, we visited the ceremony, we get the privilege Miwa family, famous for their of holding a decades old tea beautiful pottery called Hagi-yaki. bowl and drinking it’s aromatic To call them potters is almost an deep green elixir. We learned to insult. They are artists and have concentrate less on the bowl and been for hundreds of years as more about what it delivers and their family has created ceramics how it is delivered, conveying the treasured by collectors around spirit of omotenashi. the world.

42 Mr. Taro Miwa is an astounding 13th generation descendant to carry on the family’s craft. In fact his father and his uncle were named living national treasures. He tells us the bowl is far more than a utensil to drink tea. It is a carrier of energy. It delivers power to those who hold it and drink from it. As we drank our tea, we could not help but be reminded of the ancient kiln the family uses, and the centuries old rice fields that provide the ashes for the clay. We can imagine elderly, knotted, gifted hands, crafting each piece with the wisdom of his father and grandfather and great grandfather…and over and over again. The taste of the tea provides the flavor of some of Japan’s finest traditions, all delivered in the simplest and most beautiful of moments. It’s an experience in this beauty, gives us a much deeper that is a perfect metaphor for this exotic understanding of what this country and wonderful country. values the most. This was a day that delivered a clear lesson: beauty is abundant in this country and it is painstakingly preserved. To take the time and immerse ourselves

43 Personal Reflections relationships play in our really added to the meetings increasingly busy and we had in Japan. Despite complex world. We often this diversity, we clearly get lost in the speed but we bonded as a group and must always remember to shared tons of laughs. slow down and build true The 2018 JALD had the sustainable friendships that privilege of meeting with will carry us forward. royal, political and business figures that only one Chris Uehara The week in Japan marked Darcy Endo-Omoto can dream of. If I could Portland, Oregon just over 3 years since my Honolulu, Hawaii analogize this, it would be father passed. I wish I could comparable to the President As a child growing up in have shared the stories When I found out that I of the United States, his Hawaii, I heard stories about and photographs of Japan was selected to be a part cabinet members, U.S. the valor of the Japanese with him and all it offered of the 2018 JALD, I asked a Ambassador, Congress, few of my friends who had Americans who served in me. The opportunity to the Royal Family, and the honor of representing the 442nd RCT during World see the country where my Forbes Top 100 Companies. Hawaii in prior years These thought provoking War II. Honor, sacrifice, grandparents originated selflessness were the words to share with me their meetings has made me from is forever imprinted experiences. that my father used as he realize that as each country in me. Eventually, many has their strengths and told me stories about my There was a common of their sons became the struggles, there are definite uncles, who became these response by all of them, “life brave soldiers of the 442nd opportunities to learn from true American Heroes. changing!” That response RCT. Sometimes it’s an act one another. did not give me any further of bravery that changes the When I arrived in Los inkling of what I would world. The Japanese are so A big mahalo to Prime Angeles for JALD orientation expect on my upcoming Minister Abe, who suggested dedicated in what they do I saw the “Go For Broke” trip. They all said, you’ll to Irene Hirano Inouye in a way that Americans are memorial tribute to totally understand what we about having the JALD the 442nd RCT. I knew not. We can learn so much mean after your trip. visit Yamaguchi, his home immediately that this trip to from Japan. prefecture. It was a thrilling The 2018 JALD met in Japan, my first as an adult, experience for me as this To my teammates, the February for an orientation was my very first visit to would be transformative for in Los Angeles. It was our experiences, great food Yamaguchi, where my me. first opportunity to meet we ate and awful singing maternal great grandfather and get to know one another JALD opened my eyes to we shared are my forever was born. before our trip in March. the responsibility that memories. It was a privilege I had the privilege of being I have as an American to go on this journey with One thing that came up at one of the presenters at you. Thank you to the the orientation as well as with Japanese blood to our Symposium held in Ministry of Foreign Affairs, during our trip was how increase the U.S.-Japan Yamaguchi, “The Japanese Consul General Kojiro diverse we were as a group. relationships for future American Experience We had representation from generations. Her Imperial Uchiyama, the U.S.-Japan commemorating the 150th Guam to Washington D.C. Highness Princesses Council, Ms. Irene Hirano anniversary of the first and everywhere in between. Takamado reaffirmed Inouye and Mr. Sho Dozono emigation from Japan to that responsibility in me for providing me this Although we all shared Hawaii.” Putting together when she spoke to our opportunity. a commonality of Japan my presentation on the delegation. Regardless of roots, a majority of our “Hawaii Experience” gave I will share my experience me a deeper appreciation the distance or cultural delegation were also rich with others and speak about of our ancestors, their differences, Japanese in other ethnicities which the responsibility that we as perseverance, and the leaders face similar added a broader perspective Japanese Americans have to discussions. We also had unique culture of Hawaii challenges that we do in the to tell our story, so the dark quite a few women in our and Aloha which is the U.S. My biggest takeaway days in our U.S. history are 2018 delegation. Our diverse foundation for what we was the affirmation and never repeated. life and work experiences are today. The Symposium value that people to people also provided me with a

44 better understanding of my they forgive me for saying Japan’s deeper layers that different experiences as fellow presenters’ family this, rather baggy droopy not everyone is allowed to Asian Americans, but also experiences who lived in the eyes. DNA is a powerful see, and in doing so, we as Japanese Americans. continental U.S. thing. This glimpse helps came home with a greater We held varying degrees of We also fit in some time to me realize Japan has helped understanding of who we connection to the Japanese enjoy the arts, culture, and mold who I am, even from a are and what our value is to American incarceration history of Japan, visiting a half a world away. I’m sure this great relationship. Yes, experience yet all shared in shoyu factory that was in the other nine delegates Japanese DNA is powerful, the affirmation that this was existence for over 188 years, are likely realizing the but so is our American a central aspect of who we viewing beautiful hagiyaki same thing. Regardless of entrepreneurial spirit. are as a Japanese American pottery and the Kintai whether or not we’ve spent community. Bridge in the Yamaguchi time in Japan, it is inside prefecture to name a few. of us. Being of mixed ethnicity myself, it was fascinating My JALD experience was However, while we to see the diversity of indeed “life changing!” acknowledge a special backgrounds we all came Thank you so much to Irene Hirano Inouye, U.S.-Japan connection, we also admit from, what our families Council, and Ministry of to being far more American look like now, and what Foreign Affairs for this once than Japanese. they might look like in the in a lifetime opportunity. future. And that is where It has made me realize Japan, I’ve discovered, is David Inoue the JALD trip is so important wonderfully complex. Its how important it is for Washington, D.C. for myself, our group, and I us as ambassadors to do people are respectful and suspect, other groups both what we can to foster the deeply traditional. That, Being a shin-nisei, my before and to follow. relationship between the in my opinion, is its true participation in the JALD two countries. We can help beauty. trip was even possible only The one thing that bound to build a better future for because of the evolution of us all together was our the next generation. However, I’ve also the program from when it Japanese heritage. It has discovered those same was founded. Expanding affected us in different beautiful qualities can also the program to allow ways, but it is undeniable be a burden when trying to individuals such as me, who that it has impacted who evolving to the challenges of comes from a more recently we all are and how we fit, our modern world. immigrated lineage and or sometimes don’t fit, Interestingly, America is just who has some experience in between cultures and the opposite. Our history in Japan, to participate countries. No one would and traditions don’t receive obviously benefited me, but ever mistake any of us to be nearly the same protections, as I found in interactions a Japanese national, but the warmth with which we were David Ono but the positive byproduct with my fellow participants, is also a direct outgrowth welcomed and accepted, Los Angeles, California of that is we are free to find new ways. We can of the growing diversity of showed us there is a place As I sat on a bus while solve problems without the Japanese Americans as a for us in Japan and working driving through Japan with pressure of holding on to a community. with Japan. my fellow JALD members, I traditional identity. Geographically we Similarly, in our own found myself thinking about represented nearly as far country, we often face the my grandfather, whom I’ve I feel this “American” apart areas of the country as challenge of how we are never met. For years my perspective was part of possible from my home of perceived. It is similarly relatives in Kumamoto have our value on this trip as we Washington, DC all the way impossible to separate told me how I looked so participated in discussions to the Pacific territory of ourselves from our much like him. Then, upon about the shrinking Guam. Notably, two places Japanese, or more broadly, visiting them, I saw the population, immigration, without full Congressional Asian heritage. The obvious, rather striking resemblance women in the workplace, representation. and polar reactions are through pictures. In fact, and the search for the next great idea. either to reject our Japanese you can see remarkable That geographic diversity heritage, and seek to be as similarities in all of us JALD gave us an opportunity also meant we had what “American” as possible, or through our, and I hope to dive into and examine were sometimes very to embrace the role we can

45 in the United States. It is Kono, to the wise grace of diversity, education, to my own benefit as a Princess Takamoto, to the infrastructure or economic Japanese American that open honesty of former growth, that we face at we maintain good relations Speaker of the House the state. between the United States Yohei Kono and Minister It was not until we met the and Japan. Yoshimasa Hayashi, I master potter’s family in I am grateful to the Japanese was often impressed and Hagi did my impressions government, the Ministry equally surprised. Japan of the trip crystalize. As knows it is facing a number of Foreign Affairs, and June Taylor we experienced the tea of very tough issues in the US-Japan Council for Denver, Colorado ceremony, we learned coordinating this invaluable the future. The leaders of the very precise and It is apropos that as I experience and to all the of Japan seem to embrace generations-old process of draft this reflection, I am agencies and organizations this, and although the tools creating these masterpieces. traveling via the Nozomi that made us feel welcome and methods might differ, I was overwhelmed that Shinkansen from Shin in Japan and helped to the urgency is strong to I was but one person Yamaguchi to Tokyo for reinforce the importance of make change. to drink from a tea cup our return home. Like the the strong ties between our New knowledge of my past created hundreds of years Shinkansen, my thoughts two countries. was also a great gift on this ago, preserved through are moving a million miles journey. The kind people generations of tradition. an hour. “One million miles of the Museum of Japanese per hour” is the equivalent Yet after multiple Immigration to Hawaii of 300 kilometers per hour, generations, the family still discovered the ship records correct? Fine, my thoughts had joy of the craft, and still of my great grandparents and emotions are running at continued to create new leaving Yamaguchi 300 km per hour. pieces and introduce new prefecture in 1907. techniques. I realized that When we started this trip Digging deeper, they also what impressed me the just a few short days ago, provided documents of most about the princess, the I thought I had been to Shari Bryant census data, return trips prime minister, the foreign Japan. My passport stamps San Francisco, California to Japan, and even a draft minister (and his team), certainly demonstrate my card from WWI. I was left or the shoyu master was I love my heritage. I love travels to Japan. I’ve visited overwhelmed with gratitude their very deliberate and Japan. I love this program. Kinkakuji in Kyoto, the and a feeling of how little I thoughtful approach to each That’s a lot of love. It’s easy Peace Memorial Museum know and how much more meeting and interaction. to feel that way after leaving in Hiroshima, and Todai- there is to discover about I learned that every Tokyo and the 18th year of ji in Nara, but not until my family heritage. moment, every action is the JALD program. the JALD trip did I truly an opportunity to make an Inspiration is abound in Thank you to Peter experience Japan. Shimamoto, Kaz Sakai, Dan impact or make a change. Japan – from the art, to the Each day has been filled Okimoto, and Irene Inouye At the Symposium, I had architecture, to its people. with unique, one in a for the path that led me to the privilege to present on But personal inspiration lifetime experiences. When this journey. Thank you to Japanese Americans today, is often elusive - easily would I have ever imagined my wonderful and special 150 years after Japanese getting lost in the day to day that I would meet a group of colleagues in the from Yamaguchi boldly of work and life. Where princess? A prime minister? 18th delegation. I think immigrated to Hawaii. At does it come from? As A foreign minister? Or of you everyday in some the Symposium reception, I the feeling began to creep members of the Diet? small way. was most often asked about into me during my JALD The conversations about Colorado’s Governor Carr journey to Japan, I realized I will go back. I will help policy and economics were and his courage to stand up it often comes from new foster strong ties between intellectually stimulating for Japanese Coloradans in knowledge. the U.S. and Japan. I will be and highlighted that we the face of Executive Order The knowledge I gained inspired. have more in common. 9066. Every moment, every on the 18th annual JALD From these conversations, action is an opportunity to trip was deeply insightful, I have a new lens through create change. and unexpected. From the which to view similar warmth of Foreign Minister challenges, such as

46 I am humbled by the Japan’s Consul General of the symposium was little nervous because one, immense amount of Mitsuhiro Wada, for their “The Japan Experience: my knowledge of US-Japan investment Japanese and personal support and Commemorating the 150th history and politics was Americans have made in enthusiasm. I hope to Anniversary of the First subpar and cramming 150+ this relationship between build upon this experience Emigration from Japan years of history into my the two countries. At one and the friendships that I to Hawaii”. Three of the little brain was challenging, point in the Symposium, have made by continuing delegates presented at the and two the thought of David Ono said that the to assist with some exciting symposium, and they did traveling 24 hours a day for 2016 US-Japan event at new Japanese projects that a wonderful job of sharing one week with 10 strangers Pearl Harbor reflected are underway in our local the diverse experiences of felt like a bad reality show a culmination of a County community. Japanese Americans since in the making. relationship where the During our trip to Japan, the first migration 150 years parties had chosen peace ago. Luckily, the trip far we spent our first several exceeded my expectations and prosperity. It was a days in Tokyo meeting Throughout our trip 60-year effort to continue to and provided me with a with many accomplished the Japanese spirit new perspective that has choose peace, to continue and interesting people in of omotenashi was to choose moving forward, had a profound impact on government and business. demonstrated with who I am as a Japanese to continue to choose Many of the conversations enthusiasm as our many a partnership. I could American. While I am still centered around hosts served us ocha, not an expert on US-Japan not help but think that commonly discussed wagashi, washoku - all relationships are dynamic history or political relations, issues, such as: challenges very delicious. We even I came away with a much and must be cultivated. presented by an aging had a fun evening singing And I am but one just small better understanding of the and declining population, karaoke. I feel that I have challenges modern Japan piece of this cultivation and Prime Minister Abe’s made many new friends investment. I am humbled faces, just how critical economic policy package, during this trip, including strong US-Japan relations and recognize that I must leadership development my travelling companions do what I can to invest are to international stability, and opportunities for who are the best! and my personal ability and and cultivate this precious women, immigration relationship. obligation to strengthen policies, trade policies, people-to-people relations military conflicts, and between the two countries how businesses can better through my work and prepare and adapt with community. changing demographics a n d r a p i d a d v a n c e m e n t s Furthermore, while I used in technology. to think Japan looked down We then continued on to on people with Japanese Yamaguchi prefecture Denise Moriguchi ancestry who had left where we visited museums, Seattle, Washington Japan, such as the Japanese- Laurie Van Pelt, temples, and family Americans, I felt this Oakland County, Michigan I have travelled to Japan businesses with roots that several times before but my sentiment has changed and The Japanese-American go back many generations. visit as part of the Japanese that Japan now takes pride Leadership Delegation The current and many American Leadership in the accomplishments and achievements of all trip to Japan was most former Prime Ministers Delegate was an experience those who share even a remarkable. I would like have come from Yamaguchi. unlike any other. I am very drop of Japanese blood. to convey my heart-felt Yamaguchi is where the grateful to the Ministry Everyone we met on the appreciation to the U.S. Meiji Restoration initiated of Foreign Affairs and the trip, from Prime Minister Japan Council and Japan’s and its history is rich with US-Japan Council, especially Abe to Princess Takamado Ministry of Foreign Affairs progressive leaders. Ms. Irene Hirano-Inouye, for making this once- to our guide Mich, The symposium hosted for providing me with this in-a-lifetime experience showed us nothing but by the Japan Foundation amazing once-in-a-lifetime possible. I would also like the upmost respect and Center for Global opportunity. to thank local leaders, kindest hospitality, further Partnership was held Oakland County Executive Before we left, I didn’t know strengthening my pride on our last evening in L. Brooks Patterson and what to expect and was a in and connection to my Yamaguchi. The theme

47 the delicious meals and the Princess leading the like JA’s to do more to stop the karaoke visits – the field. She was grace and the statues and monuments most special part of the intelligence personified. from going up. trip was creating lifelong Forum 21, CGP, Keidanren friendships with my and Keizai Douyukai are Another issue that came up fellow delegates. We may highly respected groups was Japan’s labor shortage. come from different cities that can influence business There was a lot of discussion with different pasts and and help shape national about getting women back experiences, but our trip policy. On the cultural into the labor force and opening their borders to Monica Okada Guzman together and our shared side, visits to Shoin Shrine Territory of Guam commitment to giving and Fusoen Miwagama immigrants. Encouraging It is just over three months back to our community Pottery become more women to return to the since I attended the and serving as a bridge than just tours of a temple workforce seemed to 2018 Japanese American to strengthen US-Japan or ceramics shop. When dominate the solutions Leadership Delegation relations has bonded you get to go behind the with options like free child trip to Japan and I am still us forever. barriers into a World care, free education and overwhelmed. My sincere Heritage site and are served free pregnancy leave for I am very thankful for my appreciation goes out to tea in the tea bowls created both parents. They also JALD experience and am so the U.S. Japan Council and by a designated Living talked about changing the honored to become part of Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Treasure, you realize that corporate cultures so that such an illustrious network Affairs for this incredible this is not your standard employees had a better that is the US-Japan Council. experience and allowing Apple Vacation. work/life balance. However, Doumo arigatou gozaimasu. we did not get a chance to me this extraordinary Another enjoyable aspect really talk about HOW these opportunity. was the split between the types of changes were going Unlike previous trips to political, business and to be implemented. Japan, this visit fanned cultural sections. If this the flames of my Japanese trip had centered around Finally, the Forum 21 ancestry igniting personal just one of those, it would group projects really pride in my mixed have been too narrow in impressed me. Each new heritage…a heritage that focus. Our trip was a deep class takes a year to study began in the Jomon period dive into the breadth and one specific societal issue of Ancient Japan from Lisa Sakai depth of Japan. By meeting and how businesses can 10,000 – 300 BC. We have Chicago, Illinois politicians, business address that issue. I think each JALD class could records of more than 50 I had talked to past JALD executives and 12th do something similar. I issei who made Guam delegates and thought I generation artisans, I got to would like to suggest that their home during the had a pretty good idea of see the weird and wonderful the first one (done by early 1900’s and today as what this trip would be like. juxtaposition of modern our class) could be “The descendants we represent However, I was unprepared and traditional that make a wide cross-section of for how much MORE it was. up Japanese culture. As a state of relations between our island community. We Japan is not a new country Sansei, I am the product of Japanese Americans and have a thriving Japanese for me. I had lived in Kobe that same type of blending. Japanese Nationals living in community and an for a couple of years and the U.S.” Such a multi-city There were a couple of active Nikkei Association been back many times for project would allow JALD repeating issues that came celebrating its five-year work. I thought I knew participants to continue up in our meetings. For anniversary this year. Japan. I did not. to work together, it would Japan’s government, the foster stronger ties to As the second Nikkei The first thing that stands comfort women statues in MOFA and it would fulfill delegate from Guam out is the incredible the U.S. are still very much the mission statement of to attend the JALD, access the JALD group in their thoughts. They the USJC. the importance of is given. Prime Minister know where every statue is, strengthening US and Japan Abe, Princess Takamado, and they are afraid they will relations truly resonated Foreign Minister Kono and cause backlash for Japanese for me. Guam is only a Ambassador Hagerty are residing in the U.S. I got 3-hour flight from Japan impressive headliners - with the feeling that they would and the strength of our

48 tourism industry was built to ensure collaboration keynote remarks by descendants and their on Japanese visitors and and cooperation. Having Mr. Shinichi Kitaoka, participation in Guam’s that has been our main first-hand discussions with President of the Japanese economic, social and economic engine. government and private International Cooperation cultural growth. sector individuals on these Agency (JICA) entitled Topics of the JALD sessions topics was enlightening and “Human Networking After I feel that a whole new were significant. They eye-opening. Japan’s Modernization world has opened up to me included discussion and Migration”. Guam while all along I know it has on relaxing Japanese Participating at JALD has also celebrates its own been a part of my being. immigration policy as given me the incentive 150thAnniversary of the first As a Japanese CHamoru a means to address the and drive to further our Japanese immigrants to our American, I want to thank current labor shortage ties to Japan. Along with island who arrived on June Irene Hirano Inouye, and encouraging women Guam Nikkei Association 8, 1868. In commemoration, President of the USJC and back into the workforce. (GNA) Chairman Frank we will be producing a short Consul Shigeru Kikuma for Whether it is the integration Shimizu, we attended the videos for an awareness their support during the of different ethnicities in “59thConvention of Nikkei campaign entitled “Japan, 2018 JALD. A special Si Yu’os Japan or acknowledging the and Japanese Abroad Guam and Me” that will Ma’åse to Guam Consul contributions that women in Hawaii’’. This event highlight the Nikkei and its General Seki Izumi and can make to a growing commemorated the 150th contributions to Guam. We Deputy Consul Osamu Ogata economy, it is important to Anniversary of the first are planning an exhibition for their continued support continue the conversation Japanese immigrants to to further celebrate the for the Guam Nikkei among both our countries Honolulu and featured history of the issei, their Association.

49 We would like to give a Special Thank You to the people on our trip who helped make it so special: President Irene Hirano Inouye, the ever patient Kikuma-san, our amazing tour guide, Michio Akutsu and Segiuchi-san, the transla- tors and bus drivers and of course, all the people who took the time to meet with us.

50