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Welcome Remarks by The Honorable Tomoko Dodo

The Honorable Tomoko Dodo, Acting Consul General, Consulate-General of Japan, spoke as part of the Opening General Session on July 5, 2013.

Welcome Remarks (Transcription):  

Good afternoon.   

It is with distinct honor that I stand in front of the distinguished participants of the 4th National Conference of the Japanese American National Museum. I wish to humbly express my sincere appreciation and deep respect to all of you for your open-mindedness and forward looking spirit in understanding Japanese culture and recognizing the virtues we commonly share, and for graciously inviting me to this podium as a representative of the People and the Government of Japan. We are honored to be associated with the conscience and strength of the Japanese-American community.

Yesterday, on the 4th of July, I had the privilege of witnessing your great nation, the United States of America, the land of the free and the home of the brave, celebrate its dynamic diversity. At the Naturalization Ceremony held at the Seattle Center under the blue sky of the beautiful Emerald City of the fascinating Evergreen State, I came across a famous phrase, "Eternal vigilance is the price of liberty".

This is exactly what this conference has been doing.  Through your tireless efforts to preserve and share the Japanese American experience, the Conference teaches us how past lessons are relevant to the present day. It transcends time and space, connecting past and present, young and old, communities and peoples. It embodies the importance of freedom and justice for all.  It exemplifies the significance of peace and democracy. It resonates with universal values, which are applicable to the people of all nations.

I wish you a meaningful participation in the Conference and I look forward to learning an abundance alongside you.

Thank you.