Thursday, April 9, 2020

Message from USJC Board of Directors Chair

Message from USJC Board of Directors Chair Phyllis Campbell
It is with profound sadness that I must inform you of the passing of U.S.-Japan Council President Irene Hirano Inouye on April 7, following an extended illness. We extend our deepest condolences to her family.
I know we are all devastated by this news. Irene was a singular figure in U.S.-Japan relations, respected by leaders on both sides of the Pacific as she carried out the mission of USJC. Since the founding of the Council, she infused the organization with her wisdom and entrepreneurial spirit, kept her pulse on every aspect of USJC while keeping her eye on the strategic vision, and managed to approach every challenge with fearlessness and determination.
Back in January when she wrote to the USJC membership about her plans to retire later this year and assist in the Board of Directors’ search for a new CEO, she expressed the hope that her leadership of USJC will have made a lasting contribution to the U.S.-Japan relationship. Serving as president of the U.S.-Japan Council, she wrote, “has been an honor of a lifetime.”
I hope Irene realized that it was actually our honor to have known her. Many of you have your own wonderful memories of Irene from USJC, from her community activities, and from her previous positions, including as the president and founding CEO of the Japanese American National Museum. For me, she was and always will be an inspiration and a model of leadership.
While current circumstances will prevent us from gathering in person to pay tribute to Irene, her family will share with us any plans for a future memorial service after the current global crisis has ended. Her family has asked that, in lieu of flowers or cards, donations be made in Irene’s name to the U.S.-Japan Council.
In addition to her leadership of USJC, Irene’s professional and community activities included serving as Chair and Trustee, Ford Foundation; Chair and Trustee, Kresge Foundation; Chair, Smithsonian Institution Asian Pacific American Center;  Chair of the Advisory Board, Terasaki Center for Japanese Studies, University of California at Los Angeles; Trustee, Washington Center; Trustee, Independent Sector, and member, American Academy of Arts and Sciences; member of the Advisory Board, Center on Philanthropy & Public Policy, Price School of Public Policy, University of Southern California; Chair, Board of Directors of the American Association of Museums; Board Member, National Trust for Historic Preservation; Member, National Board Smithsonian Institution; member, Toyota Corporation’s Diversity Advisory Board; member, Business Advisory Board of Sodexho Corporation; President’s Committee on the Arts and Humanities by Presidential appointment; and Chair, California Commission on the Status of Women.
Until a new CEO is named, Irene’s responsibilities at USJC will be supported by Chief Operating Officer Terri Swetnam and Executive Vice President Laura Winthrop Abbot. 
In the meantime, I know you join me in mourning the loss of a most vibrant and iconic woman, who graced us with her friendship and extraordinary leadership.
Very sincerely yours,

Phyllis

Thursday, March 22, 2018

U.S.-Japan Council Member Newsletter - March 15

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March 15th, 2018

Table of Contents
1. 2018 Japanese American Leadership Delegation Returns Home
2. TOMODACHI News
3. Announcements
4. Member News
5. Upcoming Events
6. Opportunities

 

1. 2018 Japanese American Leadership Delegation Returns Home

​​The ​ten delegates of the 201​8 Japanese American Leadership Delegation (JALD) program returned home on March 1​0 after a full week of meetings, discussions and networking opportunities with Japanese leaders. ​With the aim to ​strengthen and diversify U.S.-Japan relations​, the ​program build​s​ people-to-people relationships with Japanese leaders from various sectors.
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The delegates sightseeing in Yamaguchi

The group first visited Tokyo, where they met with Prime Minister Abe. The Prime Minister emphasized that this was the 150th anniversary since Japanese Americans first arrived in Hawaii, and expressed his joy that this year's delegates would visit Yamaguchi, his home prefecture. (For a summary of his speech (in Japanese), click here.) The delegation thanked the Prime Minister for his support of U.S.-Japan relations and of Japanese Americans. (More information is available on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website ​(in Japanese) ​and ​a video of the discussion).

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The Prime Minister took photos with each of the delegates, including ​Chris Uehara
The delegates also met with many other leaders in Tokyo, including Foreign Minister Taro Kono, who is also a Friend of the Council; MEXT (Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology) Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi; U.S. Ambassador to Japan William F. Hagerty; members of the USJC Board of Councilors Ambassador Masaharu Kohno and Former Speaker of the House of Representatives Yohei Kono; other Japan-based USJC members; and representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Keidanren (Japan Business Federation), Keizai Doyukai (Japan Association of Corporate Executives), Forum 21, Japan Foundation CGP and the Japan-U.S. Parliamentary Friendship League.
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The delegates with Ambassador Hagerty (center)
In ​Yamaguchi Prefecture, the delegates participated in a symposium titled "The Japanese American Experience: Commemorating the 150th anniversary of the first emigration​ ​from Japan to Hawaii" (see this webpage for more information), co-sponsored by the Japan Foundation Center for Global Partnership (CGP), ​USJC and the Yamaguchi International Exchange Association, ​with support from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs​.​ O​ver 1​20 individuals attend​ed the symposium, which discussed the journey of Japanese Americans ​(including Gannenmono, the first immigrants), the role of Japanese Americans in​ contemporary America, and how to promote diversity and inclusion in both Japan and the U​nited States.​ ​The group also toured the ​Museum of Japanese Emigration to Hawaii, as well as Hagiyaki Pottery and ​other sites.
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The Symposium in Yamaguchi featured (from left) Darcy Endo-Omoto, David Ono and June Taylor
The JALD program is sponsored by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and organized by USJC.
Click here ​to view more photos from the trip. Click here for more information on the program and biographies of all ​t​en delegates.
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2. TOMODACHI News

TOMODACHI Inouye Scholars Discuss Diversity and History
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Japanese university students teaching origami at First United Methodist Church in Arkansas
The 2017-18 TOMODACHI Inouye Scholars Program has been a wonderful success so far. During this 10-day exchange program, 100 American and 100 Japanese university students learn about the legacy of the late Senator Daniel K. Inouye, including his commitment to public service and his contributions to the Japanese American community and U.S.-Japan relations. Universities in the United States are paired with Japanese universities to facilitate the exchanges. Universities participating in the 2017-18 year are: Loyola Marymount University (LMU) and Sophia University; Hendrix College and Prefectural University of Hiroshima and Yamaguchi University; George Washington University and the University of the Ryukyus; and University of St. Thomas and Fukushima University.
LMU's delegation, led by Council Leader and Associate Professor Dr. Curtiss Rooks, was the first out of the pairs to host a Japanese university in the U.S. and travel to Japan. (Dr. Rooks led LMU’s 2014-15 TOMODACHI Inouye Scholars delegation as well.) Between February 18 and 24, LMU students hosted 23 students and two faculty members from Sophia University. The Sophia students visited sites that include the Japanese American National Museum, the Museum of Tolerance and JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles. They visited Kizuna, where Associate Craig Ishii spoke about the development of youth leaders in the Japanese American community. On LMU’s campus, the Sophia students also attended a First Amendment event featuring sports journalist Jemele Hill.
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Cheering the LMU women’s basketball team to victory
While in Japan from March 3 to 11, the LMU scholars visited the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, learned history at the Edo Museum, witnessed future technology at Honda Plaza, and reunited with friends at the Sophia campus (where they also learned about diversity in Japan). They visited Hiroshima, where Senator Inouye has family ties. They learned about everyday life in Japan through their homestay families, and visited Miyajima and the Hiroshima Peace Museum, where they reflected upon U.S.-Japan relations.  
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With deer in Miyajima
In February 2018, Hendrix College students welcomed 22 students and two professors from Prefectural Hiroshima University and Yamaguchi University. The students learned about social justice through the history of the incarceration of Japanese Americans in Central Arkansas during World War II, as well as the forced removal of Native Americans along the Trail of Tears. The students visited the Japan-based company Tokusen, and met with Bart Castleberry, the mayor of Conway (where Hendrix is located), who discussed local issues and encouraged students to be engaged in their own communities in Japan. With the goal of promoting cross-cultural understanding through community service, the students also prepared food boxes at the Arkansas Food Bank and sung for the elderly at the College Square Retirement Community with a Hendrix professor and his band. They taught origami at First United Methodist Church and traditional Japanese dance to a third grade class at Theodore Jones Elementary School. In late March, a Hendrix delegation will visit Japan.
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With Mayor Bart Castleberry
Other U.S. schools participating in the TOMODACHI Inouye Scholar Program this year will travel to Japan in mid- to late March, and will be covered in future newsletters.
USJC Members in Southern California Welcome Ten Female Leaders from Tohoku
​Many thanks to Associate Lauren Ohata for the below article and photos!
The TOMODACHI Tohoku Grassroots Leadership Academy took place in Los Angeles, California, from February 4 to 11. Ten women leaders were chosen from across the Tohoku region to come to LA for a week of training and experiential learning.
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The group with USJC members and friends
The USJC SoCal chapter ​hosted a welcome luncheon ​for the women leaders, ​and spent an evening together over dinner organized by Lauren Ohata ​(​ELP '14​)​ and the Ohata family, with the support of ​many USJC members and friends. ​Over the course of the week, ​the participants met with ​leaders that include Associate ​Craig Ishii ​(​ELP '13​) ​and Council Leaders ​Leslie Ito ​(JALD '17) ​and David Boone ​(​JALD ‘17​), ​and learned how to leverage their experiences and abilities​ to implement social service programs​​. They ​also met​ ​with ​Los Angeles-based entrepreneurs, NPO leaders, ​corporate ​directors and grassroots community leaders​, ​who discussed how to foster innovation.
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Participants pose with 2018 JALD delegate David Ono (center) 
The true spirit of​ ​TOMODACHI ran through the week of​​ programming, demonstrating how we can help our respective communities fulfill passions and strengthen communities. Thank you to the members who committed their time and energy to the programming and participated in the events. The Academy is a great example of the power​ of people-to-people connections​,​ as it is ​organized by USJC members who met Megumi Ishimoto ​(​Director of ​the NPO ​Women’s Eye and​ ​an alumna of the TOMODACHI NGO Leadership Program supported by J.P. Morgan)​ ​three years ago on the USJC Tohoku member trip organized by ELP Alumni.
For more details ​about the Grassroots Leadership Academy, ​please click here.

Building the TOMODACHI Generation Morgan Stanley Ambassador Program 2018
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The Building the TOMODACHI Generation: Morgan Stanley Ambassadors Programsuccessfully concluded in early March after two weeks of intense discussions on civil society. Generously funded by Morgan Stanley, this program was implemented in partnership between The Washington Center for Internships and Academic Seminars (TWC) and the U.S.-Japan Research Institute (USJI). The program aims to develop leadership and promote cultural exchange by enabling students to create models of cross-sector partnerships to address social challenges. This year, the program welcomed 21 college students (nine Americans and 12 Japanese), who participated in panel discussions and site visits while learning critical teamwork skills and gaining cross-cultural understanding.
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The students explored Washington, DC, including the U.S. Capitol
The students first studied theoretical and practical concepts of civil society through lectures and panel discussions. They learned about the role of civil society in the United States and Japan, and how they can address social issues, particularly those in the Tohoku region. In the second part of the program, the students split into teams and developed projects that leverage the strength of civil society to resolve persistent issues in Tohoku. They also took part in a networking reception at the Washington Center, which was attended by many USJC members and friends (click here to see photos). The teams then presented their respective projects to a panel of judges: Ryan Klang, Chief Operating Officer of The Washington Center; Dr. Kazuhiro Maeshima, Operating Advisor of U.S.-Japan Institute and professor at Sophia University; and Council Leader Bruce Hollywood, Planner at the U.S. Department of Defense.
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The students networked with many guests at the reception, including Associate Georgette Furukawa-Martinez (right)
After returning to Japan, the Japanese students attended a debriefing session and reception hosted by Morgan Stanley Japan Holdings Co., Ltd. When asked about the impact the program had on her, Makoto Kimura from Kyushu University commented that it has broadened her vision on the importance of communication and language skills. Working with fellow Japanese and American participants made her realize the joys and challenges of collaborating with others from different backgrounds. Ekaterina Hauff from Tiffin University commented that she enjoyed talking with the Japanese participants and learning about their culture. She appreciated the group working together despite running into disagreements.
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Upon returning to Tokyo, the Japanese students presented their findings
With a new set of global skills, the students returned to their respective universities to further cultivate those skills and benefit others from their experience in the program.
 

3. Announcements

USJC Events Calendar Available! 
If you are looking for events to attend in your region or while traveling, look no further! We are pleased to announce that a calendar of upcoming USJC events is available on our website. It is also accessible on the USJC homepage. We look forward to seeing you at many more USJC events throughout the United States and Japan.
Applications Open for the 2018 TOMODACHI-Mitsui & Co. Leadership Program
*Please note that the first city for Japanese Delegates to visit has been changed to Boston from Seattle due to unexpected schedule conflicts. Travel to all other cities and travel dates remain unchanged.
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2017 U.S. Mitsui delegates in Japan
We are now accepting applications for the TOMODACHI-Mitsui & Co. Leadership Program. Generously funded by Mitsui & Co., Ltd., and entering its sixth year, this exchange program provides participants with unique access to leaders in the U.S.-Japan arena, and the opportunity to broaden their perspectives to enhance work or initiatives in their professional fields. Selected through a competitive process, participants represent professional, geographic, and gender diversity.
Ten (10) American and ten (10) Japanese young professionals from a mix of public and private sectors will travel to each other’s country for one week to engage as a group and meet with established and up-and-coming leaders from business and government. The American delegation will travel to Miyagi Prefecture and Tokyo, and the Japanese delegation will travel to Boston, Massachusetts and Washington, DC.
The deadline for the American delegation is April 5, and the deadline for the Japanese delegation is April 19. Click here for more information.
Join the U.S.-Japan Council Mentorship Network 
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We'd like to invite all members to join USJC's online mentoring program! The U.S.-Japan Council Mentorship Network is an easy-to-use online platform designed to facilitate and support professional development and networking by cultivating meaningful mentoring relationships among USJC members.
Mentees can search for mentors by selecting criteria ranging from location, to industry, to discussion topics, and request to enter into a voluntary mentoring relationship with a mentor. These relationships are meant to provide valuable guidance to mentees as they explore career changes, build leadership skills, navigate work-life balance and much more.
If you are willing to join this program, please click on this link, where you will be prompted to create a profile (this should take about 5 minutes). We hope that you seriously consider joining this important initiative. 
 

4. Member News

Robin Lewis Featured on CNN 
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USJC Associate Robin Lewis was featured on CNN for a special segment commemorating seven years since the Great East Japan Earthquake. He spoke about his work with Explore Tohoku and his journey on foot along Japan’s tsunami-affected coastline documenting the recovery of the area. Click here or on the image above to watch the segment. 
Colby Takeda Awarded Young Alumni Leadership Award
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Congratulations to USJC Associate Colby Takeda (ELP '16) for being awarded Willamette University's Young Alumni Leadership Award! Colby was recognized for being one of the nation's youngest administrators of an assisted living community for seniors, and his work connecting the youngest and oldest populations for stronger intergenerational relationships. Click here or on the image above to read more about Colby's accomplishments. 
Nominate the Next USJC Council Leader, Associate or Friend of Council!
The U.S.-Japan Council is a community-driven organization. We encourage you to help grow our global network of leaders by nominating individuals who have demonstrated leadership and are interested in strengthening the U.S.-Japan relationship. Please find additional details regarding our membership criteria here and the nomination form here.
 

5. Upcoming Events

Film Screening of "Paper Lanterns" 
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When: March 24, 2018 at 2:55pm
Where: Marriott Wardman Park (Washington, DC) 
Paper Lanterns, a documentary film about Hiroshima, will be shown on Saturday, March 24 at the annual conference of the Association for Asian Studies in Washington, DC. Director Barry Frechette (who spoke at the 2016 Annual Conference in Silicon Valley) and Council Leader and Producer Peter Grilli will be at the screening to discuss the film. The film tells the little-known story of twelve American POWs who were killed by the atomic bomb in Hiroshima, and Shigeaki Mori (himself a hibakusha) and his tireless quest to reach out to the relatives of these lost airmen.
Click here or on the image above to watch the trailer and here for more information about the Washington, DC screening. 
Righting a Wrong: Japanese Americans and World War II 

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When: Ongoing through December 8, 2018 
Where: National Museum of American History (Washington, DC)

Last year, the National Museum of American History opened an exhibit to mark 75 years since Executive Order 9066 authorized the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II. On display are artifacts, photographs and stories collected from Japanese American families. There will also be public programming throughout the year related to this exhibit.
For more information on the exhibit, please visit the official website.

Allegiance (Los Angeles Premiere)
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When: February 21 - April 1, 2018
Where: Japanese American Cultural & Community Center (Los Angeles, CA)
Broadway musical Allegiance, created by Member of the USJC Board of Councilors George Takei, is set to premiere in Los Angeles, CA. Allegiance is a musical inspired by Mr. Takei's own experience, and tells the story of a family upended by the incarceration of Japanese Americans during WWII. 
The Los Angeles premiere of Allegiance is a special engagement and co-production of East West Players and Japanese American Cultural & Community Center, by special arrangement with Sing Out, Louise! Productions and ATA. Click here for more information.
Hold These Truths
When: February 23 - April 8, 2018
Where: The Arena Stage (Washington, DC)
"Hold These Truths" is a play based on the true story of Gordon Hirabayashi, the American son of Japanese immigrants who defied an unjust court order to uphold the values on which America was founded. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit this page.
Register Now for the Japan-Texas Economic Summit!
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When: May 7 - 9, 2018
Where: Marriott Marquis Houston (Houston, TX)
Registration is open for the Japan-Texas Economic Summit! Following the highly successful Japan-Hawaii Economic Summit in 2017, the Japan-Texas Economic Summit will bring together business leaders, investors, state and local officials, and economic development organizations from across the Lone Star State and Japan. Texas is a leading destination for foreign direct investment from Japan, and we will welcome government and business representatives from the Government of Japan and prefectures throughout the country to explore further opportunities to strengthen the relationship between Japan and the state of Texas. 
Join us for what will be a momentous step forward in the Japan-Texas economic partnership! Please visit the event page to see more details and to register. 
The Japan America Society of Southern California's 109th Anniversary Dinner & Gala 
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When: May 16, 2018
Where: The Queen Mary (Long Beach, CA)
USJC is proud to be an honoree of the Japan America Society of Southern California's Kokusai Shimin Sho "International Citizens Award" at the 109th Anniversary Dinner & Gala Celebration. This award recognizes individuals, businesses or organizations who have significantly enhanced the U.S.-Japan relationship and are committed to strengthening bonds between the two nations. 

For more information, please visit this page
 

6. Opportunities

TOMODACHI Marketing & Communications Manager (Tokyo)
The Marketing & Communications Manager is responsible for developing and implementing a comprehensive strategic communications program to develop the profile and brand of the TOMODACHI Initiative among a diverse audience and stakeholders, including senior corporate executives, government leaders, program participants, donors, press and the general public. The Marketing & Communications Manager will work closely with teams within the TOMODACHI Initiative in the implementation of this mission, as well as with the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo.  
Click here for more information about the position.

Intern (Washington, DC)

The intern will provide support for programs and communications on a part-time or full-time basis. Duties will consist of program and event coordination and support, website/social media support, organization and attendance at special events, outreach and communication, writing and translation (if able). This is an excellent internship for those hoping to gain experience in the programmatic, digital and strategic marketing and/or nonprofit fields. USJC's internship program offers outstanding opportunities for college students, graduate students and graduates who are interested in U.S.-Japan relations. 
Click here for more information about the position. 
WASHINGTON, DC HEADQUARTERS:

1819 L Street, NW
Suite 800 
Washington, DC 20036

(202) 223-6840 - Tel
(202) 280-1235 - Fax
LOS ANGELES OFFICE:

2207 Colby Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90064

(310) 500-2873 - Tel
TOKYO OFFICE:

New Otani Garden Court 12F
4-1, Kioicho, Chiyoda-ku
Tokyo, JAPAN 102-0094

(+81)(0)3 4510 3400 - Tel
(+81)(0)3 4510 3419 - Fax

   usjapancouncil.org | ja.usjapancouncil.org

Saturday, February 17, 2018

U.S.-Japan Council Member Newsletter - February 15

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U.S.-Japan Council Member Newsletter

February 15th, 2018

Table of Contents
1. U.S.-Japan-Israel Collaboration in Silicon Valley and Los Angeles
2. JALD News
3. Recent Events
4. Announcements
5. Member News
6. Upcoming Events
7. Opportunities

 

1. U.S.-Japan-Israel Collaboration: Innovation in Silicon Valley and Cybersecurity at the Olympics

On the evenings of February 5 and 6, USJC co-organized two events in California with the American Jewish Committee (AJC) Asia Pacific Institute (API). This is part of an ongoing series that highlights the opportunities for trilateral partnership and collaboration among the United States, Japan and Israel.
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Feb. 5: Council Leader Andrew M. Saidel (left) moderates a discussion with Toyota AI Ventures Managing Director Jim Adler (right) and Intuition Robotics CEO & Co-Founder Dor Skuler (middle)
The event on February 5 was titled the “U.S.-Japan-Israel Innovation Summit: Emerging Partnerships & Opportunities.” It was held at the Plug and Play Tech Center in Sunnyvale, CA, and was organized with the support of The Japan Foundation Center for Global Partnership (CGP), IJ Advisors Ltd., the Jewish High Tech Community, and Plug and Play Tech Center. The program focused on success stories and opportunities for partnerships between Japanese corporate investors and Israeli startups in fields such as AI/robotics and cybersecurity. It also discussed how the innovative ecosystem in Silicon Valley can bring about and bolster these partnerships.
Attendees heard from Jun Yamada, Japan’s Consul General in San Francisco; Shlomi Kofman, Israel’s Consul General to the Pacific Northwest; Zvi Hauser, Managing Director at IJ Advisors Ltd. & Former Israeli Cabinet Secretary; and panel speakers that include industry experts, investors and entrepreneurs (a full speaker list can be found here). USJC President Irene Hirano Inouye and AJC API Director Shira Loewenberg also gave remarks. Council Leaders Andrew M. Saidel (Managing Director at IJ Advisors Ltd.) and Kenta Takamori (Executive Director of the Silicon Valley Japan Platform) moderated different portions of the evening, which was emceed by Matt Kahn, San Francisco Regional Director at AJC. The event concluded with a networking reception that connected diverse leaders, including Silicon Valley investors and entrepreneurs, as well as government and business people from the local Japanese and Israeli communities.
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Feb. 6: Akira Chiba, Consul General of Japan in Los Angeles, delivers welcome remarks
The event on February 6 was titled “U.S.-Japan-Israel on the Global Stage: Opportunities for the Olympic & Paralympic Games.” It was held at the Japanese American National Museum (JANM) in Los Angeles, and was organized with the support of CGP. The program featured remarks and a panel discussion on the upcoming 2020 Tokyo Games, with a focus on the value of a Japan-Israel partnership in cybersecurity. It also discussed potential cybersecurity challenges and opportunities for the 2028 Los Angeles Games. Attendees heard from Akira Chiba, Japan’s Consul General in Los Angeles; Ann Burroughs, President & CEO of JANM; Cliff Goldstein, AJC API National Board Member; and a panel of government and private sector cybersecurity experts from all three countries (a full speaker list can be found here). Mr. Hauser, Ms. Loewenberg and Irene Hirano Inouye also spoke. This event was attended by USJC and AJC leadership and members, the Consulate-General of Japan in Los Angeles, and representatives from the Japanese, Japanese American, Israeli and Jewish American communities.
These two events demonstrated the unique potential and success that comes from trilateral partnership among three innovative and entrepreneurial societies. USJC looks forward to continuing to explore this topic and build diverse and impactful people-to-people relationships.
 

2. JALD News

Orientation for JALD 2018
On February 2 and 3, members of the 2018 Japanese American Leadership Delegation (JALD) gathered in Los Angeles for an intensive, two-day orientation. The meetings were held at the Japanese American National Museum (JANM) and were facilitated by USJC President Irene Hirano Inouye, Senior Vice President Kaz Maniwa and Consul Shigeru Kikuma of the Consulate General of Japan in Los Angeles. The annual orientation introduces delegates to the program, host organizations and each other; provides an overview of issues important to Japan and the U.S.-Japan relationship; and begins to prepare them for their trip to Japan.
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JALD delegates (L-R) David Ono, Darcy Endo-Omoto and June Taylor
On February 2, Mitch Maki (JALD '02) led the group on a tour of JANM's permanent exhibition, Common Ground, the Heart of Community. Hideki Hara, Director of the Japan Foundation Los Angeles, welcomed the delegates, and USJC Board Member Yuko Kaifu presented on social issues and Japanese business etiquette. In the evening, Consul General of Japan in Los Angeles Akira Chiba and his wife Yuko hosted the delegates, along with several local JALD alumni, for a welcome dinner at their residence. The dinner allowed current and former participants to meet, and for alumni to share stories and advice with the new class. 

On February 3, Consul General Chiba provided a briefing on U.S.-Japan relations and Japan’s current political issues. USJC Board Member and 2017 JALD alumnus David Boone followed with a presentation on security in the Asia Pacific region. Along with Mr. Boone, program alumni Stan Koyanagi and Leslie Ito spoke about the impact of JALD on their lives and their engagement with USJC. 
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JALD delegates (L-R) Sheri Bryant, David Inoue and Denise Moriguchi 
In the evening, the Japanese Business Association of Southern California (JBA) hosted a networking dinner at the Miyako Hotel in Little Tokyo. The reception concluded the orientation and provided an opportunity for the delegates to network with JBA members in a casual setting. We would like to offer our thanks to the Los Angeles Consulate and JBA for their gracious hospitality and continued friendship.
The 2018 delegation comprises 10 leaders in business, communications and media, government and politics, and nonprofit sectors from Los Angeles and San Francisco, California; Chicago, Illinois; Denver, Colorado; Mangilao, Guam; Honolulu, Hawaii; Oakland County, Michigan; Portland, Oregon; Seattle, Washington; and Washington, DC who are active in their communities, engaged in U.S.-Japan relations and committed to furthering relationships between Japanese Americans and Japan.
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The 2018 JALD delegation with Irene Hirano Inouye (left) and Consul Kikuma (right) at JANM 
The group will travel to Tokyo and Yamaguchi from March 2 to 10, where they will meet with top business and government officials and participate in a symposium co-sponsored with the Japan Foundation Center for Global Partnership.
More information and delegate biographies can be found here and more photos from the orientation can be viewed here. To read Rafu Shimpo's article on the 2018 JALD delegates and the JALD orientation, please click here


Reflection from Lynn Nakamoto (JALD '17)
The following article is part of a year-long series by participants of the 2017 Japanese American Leadership Delegation (JALD).  
Over a year has passed since my fellow delegates in the 2017 Japanese American Leadership Delegation (JALD) and I gathered in Los Angeles for our pre-trip orientation. We traveled from near (right in the city) and far (from the Eastern seaboard to Hawaii). The eleven of us arrived at the Japanese American National Museum in Little Tokyo on a sunny Friday morning, had our photos taken to accompany our biographies, and met as a group for the first time. We knew that we would travel to Tokyo and Kanazawa from March 3 to 11, 2017. What we did not yet know was how enlightening and transformative the trip would be for each of us.
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With fellow delegates in Kanazawa
In newsletters from April 2017 until now, you've read articles from the remarkable Japanese American community, business, political and judicial leaders who were with me in our delegation: Roy Hirabayashi, Michael Takada, David Boone, Judge Patrick Oishi, Gary Yamashita, Leslie Ito, Judge Sawako Gardner, Jason Fujimoto and Wendy Takahisa. They recounted and reflected on our travels and experiences in Japan.
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At the Ohi Pottery Museum in Kanazawa
I'd like to use this opportunity to add my congratulations to the delegates in the 2017 JALD class, who have introduced their own journey to Japan. I'd also like to offer a few thoughts of my own about my trip to Japan last year as the 2018 class gets underway. First, the network of delegates is itself important. Second, the opportunities I had to interact with leaders and to talk with people about social, political and economic issues gave me a sense of Japan that reading about those issues or visiting Japan as a tourist does not complete. Third, you can't take enough photographs—especially because it will be a once-in-a-lifetime trip.
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Speaking at the luncheon hosted by the Japan Foundation Center for Global Partnership
I continue to appreciate the privilege I had as a delegate. I thank the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the U.S.-Japan Council for this valuable program and for allowing me to be a part of the 2017 delegation.
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With Prime Minister Abe 
 

3. Recent Events

USJC and Japanese Business Association of Southern California Discuss AI 

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On January 24, USJC and the Japanese Business Association of Southern California (JBA) jointly hosted an event titled “In the Era of Artificial Intelligence What Do Businesses Need to Know?” The guest speaker was Jan Perry, General Manager of the Economic & Workforce Development Department for the City of Los Angeles. The event was also a gathering to kick off the new year with networking and a sake tasting generously sponsored by Mutual Trading. Special thanks to USJC Board Members Dennis Sugino and Yuko Kaifu and Council Leaders Sandy Sakamoto and Marcia Suzuki for a successful event with JBA.
USJC and the Japan America Society of Hawaii Ring in the New Year 
On January 24, USJC and the Japan America Society of Hawaii (JASH) co-hosted a New Year celebration. The event was held at the official residence of Governor David Ige of Hawaii. The event was attended by both USJC and JASH members, where mutual friendship and camaraderie were enjoyed by all.
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(L-R) Mr. Miwa; Roy Amemiya, Managing Director of the City and County of Honolulu; Mr. Teranishi; Admiral Harry Harris; Governor Ige; Consul General Koichi Ito, Consul General of Japan in Honolulu; and Ms. Hirano Inouye. Photo courtesy of Ray Tabata.
Three of Hawaii’s most respected chefs, Keiji Nakazawa of Sushi Sho, Jason Ichiki of Roy's Waikiki, and Chris Kajioka of Senia provided cuisine for 150 guests. Several USJC members and JASH leaders joined the festivities, including Irene Hirano Inouye, Dennis Teranishi, Susan Eichor, Norman Nakasone, Atsuko Fish, Governor and Mrs. George Ariyoshi, Tab Bowers and Bobby Ichikawa.

Members from Multiple Regions Gather in Chicago
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On February 13, members gathered at the home of USJC Board Member Tomoko Kizawa for a reception to welcome USJC members to Chicago. Members who were in town for the Annual Meeting of the Ambassador, Consuls General and Japanese American Leaders included Irene Hirano Inouye (Washington, DC), Jose Fuentes (Miami, FL), Georgette Furukawa-Martinez (Washington, DC), Yuko Kaifu (Los Angeles, CA), Eric Takahata (Honolulu, HI) and Ann Teranishi (Honolulu, HI). Thank you to Ms. Kizawa and Midwest region leaders for the Chicago hospitality!
Japanese Students Tour Hawaii with ELP Alumni 
 
Last November, USJC Associates Nate Gyotoku (ELP '13), John Toru Rankin (ELP '10) and Jonathan Abbott (ELP '14) teamed up to create a unique Hawaiian experience for nine students from an English language school in Japan. The students spent three nights and four days in Honolulu. The school initially contacted Mr. Abbott, who tapped into his ELP network to collaborate with Mr. Gyotoku and Mr. Rankin. Using his contacts in Hawaii, Mr. Gyotoku showed the students places most tourists do not have the opportunity to see, and Mr. Rankin handled all events and transportation.
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Mr. Rankin (left) and Mr. Abbott (right) enjoy dinner with the students
The goals of the trip were to increase understanding between Japanese and American businesses, show the students different sides of American culture and introduce them to Japanese American culture. It was the first trip to the United States for many of the students, and they had a memorable time seeing the beauty of Hawaii and learning about Japanese American history. The trip was a success for all of the participants, as well as for the English school, which now plans to make these trips to the United States a regular event.

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Mr. Abbott (left) with the students in front of the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaii
 

4. Announcements

Applications Open for the 2018 TOMODACHI-Mitsui & Co. Leadership Program
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2017 U.S. Mitsui delegates in Japan
We are now accepting applications for the TOMODACHI-Mitsui & Co. Leadership Program. Generously funded by Mitsui & Co., Ltd., and entering its sixth year, this exchange program provides participants with unique access to leaders in the U.S.-Japan arena, and the opportunity to broaden their perspectives to enhance work or initiatives in their professional fields. Selected through a competitive process, participants represent professional, geographic, and gender diversity.
Ten (10) American and ten (10) Japanese young professionals from a mix of public and private sectors will travel to each other’s country for one week to engage as a group and meet with established and up-and-coming leaders from business and government. The American delegation will travel to Miyagi Prefecture and Tokyo, and the Japanese delegation will travel to Seattle, Washington and Washington, D.C.
The deadline for the American delegation is April 5, and the deadline for the Japanese delegation is April 19. Click here for more information.
Watanabe Scholarship: 2018 Applications Due Today! 
 
Applications for the 2018-19 U.S.-Japan Council Toshizo Watanabe Endowed Scholarship Program are due today! This program provides financial assistance to undergraduate and graduate students for a semester or year-long study abroad program in either the United States or Japan. A generous endowment gift of $10 million from Mr. Toshizo (Tom) Watanabe to USJC makes it possible to award scholarships to students for whom study abroad would not be possible without financial support. Beginning this year, scholarships will be awarded to both American and Japanese undergraduate students who are pursuing international study in the United States or Japan. 

For information on eligibility, timeline and application requirements, please see the FAQ sheet. To apply, please visit this page
Join the U.S.-Japan Council Mentorship Network 
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We'd like to invite all members to join USJC's online mentoring program! The U.S.-Japan Council Mentorship Network is an easy-to-use online platform designed to facilitate and support professional development and networking by cultivating meaningful mentoring relationships among USJC members.
Mentees can search for mentors by selecting criteria ranging from location, to industry, to discussion topics, and request to enter into a voluntary mentoring relationship with a mentor. These relationships are meant to provide valuable guidance to mentees as they explore career changes, build leadership skills, navigate work-life balance and much more.
If you are willing to join this program, please click on this link, where you will be prompted to create a profile (this should take about 5 minutes). We hope that you seriously consider joining this important initiative. 
 

5. Member News

Allen Okamoto and Gary Mukai Honored by the Government of Japan
This month, Member of the Legacy Council Allen Okamoto and Council Leader Gary Mukai each received the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Rays from the Government of Japan. Their decorations were part of the 2017 Autumn Conferment. Many USJC members in Northern California attended the ceremonies that San Francisco Consul General Jun Yamada held for each of the leaders.
Mr. Okamoto was recognized on February 14 for his contributions to the promotion of friendship and mutual understanding between Japan and the United States, including his work as co-chair of the San Francisco Osaka Sister City Association, co-chair of the Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival and President of the Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Northern California.
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Consul General Yamada with Mr. Okamoto
Dr. Mukai was recognized on February 8 for his contributions to promoting mutual understanding and strengthening U.S.-Japan relations through education, especially as Director of the Stanford Program on International & Cross-Cultural Education (SPICE). Member of the USJC Board of Councilors Dr. Daniel Okimoto (who is also Stanford Professor Emeritus of Political Science) made remarks at the ceremony, and USJC members including Associate Rylan Sekiguchi (who wrote this article for SPICE) were in attendance.
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Consul General Yamada pinning the ribbon on Dr. Mukai
Irene Hirano Inouye Honored by Ford Foundation
On February 7, USJC President Irene Hirano Inouye was honored by the Ford Foundation, where she previously served as trustee and Chair. She was honored as one of two outgoing trustees at an event held at the United Nations in New York. Several USJC members were in attendance, including Legacy Council members Gary Moriwaki and Susan Onuma, and Council Leaders Kiyo Matsumoto and Akiko Otani (who is also USJC Director of Development).

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(L-R) Ms. Ko Chin; Irene; Darren Walker (center), President of the Ford Foundation; Ms. Sasaki; and Mr. Ferris
Leaders of other organizations in which Irene is involved also came to celebrate her. This included Kathy Ko Chin, Trustee at the Kresge Foundation; Lisa Sasaki, Director of the Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center; and James M. Ferris, Director of the Center on Philanthropy and Public Policy at the University of Southern California (USC). (Irene is Chair of the Smithsonian Institution Asian Pacific American Center, member of the Advisory Board at the USC Center on Philanthropy & Public Policy and a former Trustee and past Chair at the Kresge Foundation.)

Nominate the Next USJC Council Leader, Associate or Friend of Council!
The U.S.-Japan Council is a community-driven organization. We encourage you to help grow our global network of leaders by nominating individuals who have demonstrated leadership and are interested in strengthening the U.S.-Japan relationship. Please find additional details regarding our membership criteria here and the nomination form here.
 

6. Upcoming Events

Righting a Wrong: Japanese Americans and World War II 

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When: Ongoing through December 8, 2018 
Where: National Museum of American History (Washington, DC)

In February, the National Museum of American History opened an exhibit to mark 75 years since Executive Order 9066 authorized the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II. On display are artifacts, photographs and stories collected from Japanese American families. There will also be public programming throughout the year related to this exhibit.
For more information on the exhibit, please visit the official website.

Allegiance (Los Angeles Premiere)
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When: February 21 - April 1, 2018
Where: Japanese American Cultural & Community Center (Los Angeles, CA)
Broadway musical Allegiance, created by Member of the USJC Board of Councilors George Takei, is set to premiere in Los Angeles, CA. Allegiance is a musical inspired by Mr. Takei's own experience, and tells the story of a family upended by the incarceration of Japanese Americans during WWII. 
The Los Angeles premiere of Allegiance is a special engagement and co-production of East West Players and Japanese American Cultural & Community Center, by special arrangement with Sing Out, Louise! Productions and ATA. Click here for more information.
Hold These Truths
When: February 23 - April 8, 2018
Where: The Arena Stage (Washington, DC)
"Hold These Truths" is a play based on the true story of Gordon Hirabayashi, the American son of Japanese immigrants who defied an unjust court order to uphold the values on which America was founded. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit this page.

On April 3, the Asian Pacific American Institute for Congressional Studies and the Japanese American Citizens League are offering tickets for a special reception immediately preceding the play. Click herefor more information and to purchase tickets.
Register Now for the Japan-Texas Economic Summit!
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Registration is open for the Japan-Texas Economic Summit, to be held at the Marriott Marquis Houston from May 7 to 9, 2018. Following the highly successful Japan-Hawaii Economic Summit in 2017, the Japan-Texas Economic Summit will bring together business leaders, investors, state and local officials, and economic development organizations from across the Lone Star State and Japan. Texas is a leading destination for foreign direct investment from Japan, and we will welcome government and business representatives from the Government of Japan and prefectures throughout the country to explore further opportunities to strengthen the relationship between Japan and the state of Texas. 
Join us for what will be a momentous step forward in the Japan-Texas economic partnership! Please visit the event page to see more details and to register. 
The Japan America Society of Southern California's 109th Anniversary Dinner & Gala 
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When: May 16, 2018
Where: The Queen Mary (Long Beach, CA)
USJC is proud to be an honoree of the Japan America Society of Southern California's Kokusai Shimin Sho "International Citizens Award" at the 109th Anniversary Dinner & Gala Celebration. This award recognizes individuals, businesses or organizations who have significantly enhanced the U.S.-Japan relationship and are committed to strengthening bonds between the two nations. 

For more information, please visit this page
 

7. Opportunities

TOMODACHI Marketing & Communications Manager (Tokyo)
The Marketing & Communications Manager is responsible for developing and implementing a comprehensive strategic communications program to develop the profile and brand of the TOMODACHI Initiative among a diverse audience and stakeholders, including senior corporate executives, government leaders, program participants, donors, press and the general public. The Marketing & Communications Manager will work closely with teams within the TOMODACHI Initiative in the implementation of this mission, as well as with the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo.  
Click here for more information about the position.


Administrative Assistant (Tokyo)

The Administrative Assistant will have primary responsibility for administrative and operational support to USJC. This position is in the Tokyo office and reports to the Executive Director of USJC (Japan), and also requires close communication with the USJC (U.S.) staff based in Washington, DC.  

Click here for more information about the position. 


Intern (Washington, DC)

The intern will provide support for programs and communications on a part-time or full-time basis. Duties will consist of program and event coordination and support, website/social media support, organization and attendance at special events, outreach and communication, writing and translation (if able). This is an excellent internship for those hoping to gain experience in the programmatic, digital and strategic marketing and/or nonprofit fields. USJC's internship program offers outstanding opportunities for college students, graduate students and graduates who are interested in U.S.-Japan relations. 
Click here for more information about the position.