To k y o , J A P A N

DIGITAL ver.

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eNewsletter

The America-Japan Societ y, Inc.

Special Issue for A JS Members

日 米 協 会2 019 - 2 0 2 0

一 般 社 団 法 人

1Connect with each other,
Connect to the future.

Dear AJS members,
I hope you and your loved ones are safe and healthy in these unstable times. The world is facing
the unprecedented crisis. For the AJS, biggest challenges are yet to come. We are concerned if we cancontinue to rely on corperate and individual members’ support, and we have been doing for many years.
We would like to thank you and ask your continued support and cooperation.
In order to communicate with members, we are publishing this newsletter along with the online
programs and hope to connect with you through them.
The U.S. is going through a difficult time right now, but I am sure it will pull through with its own
strength. They will have a presidential election coming up this fall. We can't take our eyes off of it. I lookforward to the day when I can see you all again,

Ichiro Fujisaki

CO NTENTS

Feature Article: "COVID-19, US-China
relations, and US election"

03-06

Our Activities in FY 201907-08

Monthly Lecture Programs

Regular and Special ProgramsCentennial Programs
From the AJS office

09
10
11-12
13

President of the America-Japan Society,Inc,01

A J S e Ne w s l e tte r 2 02 0

T h e A m e r i c a -Ja p a n S o c i e t y, I n c .

02

COVID-19, U.S.-China Relations,and Presidential Election

ident Trump underestimated the severityof the problems created by the coronavirus.

emergency, the virus was already spreading

exponentially in New York. I also think thattimes be found in the Republican party.

Trumpʼs remarks have often contradicted
his own medical experts. It is true thatthe difference in lifestyles between Asian

countries and Western countries may havebeen a factor that contributed to the rapid

spread in America. However, if the federal
government had responded much faster,
they could have saved more lives. Whilethe number of cases has started to decrease

03

A J S e Ne w s l e tte r 2 02 0

face an economic crisis. After World War

ou-youkai, 韜光養晦 (tāoguāngyǎnghuì),"which meant that China would stay quiet
without creating enemies until they had
gained power. However, President Xi

Jinping clearly did not follow this policy

as he made clear that the Chinese government is in favor of great power politics. I

actually think this is a good thing because if
he had abided by the rules of Deng Xia-

Even President Trump has recognized thisemerge of power by showing a more consistent pattern of a tougher approach against

devastated nations in Europe financiallyantee that they will always follow throughtoo much confidence in Japanʼs "success." Asimilar thought that our country no longer

had anything to learn from America spreadthrough society in the 1980s after the

success of Japanʼs economic model. I hope

pandemic.

China. How do you think this will influ-

Plan and the Truman Doctrine to aid theor in other ways. However, in this case,neither America nor any other country will

have the resources to do the same, creating
negative impacts on the global economy. If
this happens, American citizens may start
to express their dissatisfaction so strongly

that the government cannot sustain militaryforces around the world.

Motegi: Please tell us your thoughts on
the heightened tension between Amer-

policy. Japan should not fight with China,
but I also think that the Japanese govern-

ment should voice an objection to the Chinese government on their attitude towards
Hong Kong. I think that reconciling with

China is important, but it is unlikely that wewill ever return to the harmonious relationship we had during the 1980s. Issues likethe territorial dispute over the Islands in the
East China Sea and the restrictions of theJapanese still remain as obstacles to returning to the honeymoon period in the 1980s.
It is important to note that even if a state
visit by President Xi Jinping takes place,

any attempts to seek bilateral relationships

back on track will possibly be proven futile.

tion of the new national security law on

Japan and other Asian countries has worked

led the situation more wisely. Despite thetheir country, China has been overly vocal
for their alleged medical aid and support

Hong Kong by the Chinese government
has further deteriorated US-China rela-tions. America and China have also begun

competing against each other in fields suchas cyberspace and 5G. Trump has always

authoritarian political system. As for Ja-

should not remain silent like the ASEAN

has a tendency to change their attitude on
foreign policies rather than domestic ones
after a presidential transition. For example, the Bush administration abandoned
KEDO, an organization that was estab-lished during the Clinton administration

to help aid North Koreaʼs nuclear energy.

Obama said the Iraq war that Bush started
was wrong, and Trump has attacked many

policies enacted throughout Obamaʼs whole

I do not know if the political relationshipand the United States. The recent adop-

raise their voices as well, making it difficult

with their pledges. Additionally, America

Kubo: I am concerned that this pandemic

Fujisaki: I think that China would havefact that the origin of this virus was fromfreedom in one place, others will start topan, although it may be difficult to voice anpresidency. There is a high possibility that

hand, the peculiar culture of cautiously

emerged as the dominant power if they had

crucial to them because if they allow any

taking a tough stance, but it does not guar-

ica and China.

will intensify the tensions between China

may also be a factor. I am aware that there

the Tiananmen Square incident, Dengthat the US-Japan relationship should beThis page isthisaccessible
only toelection
AJS members.
country. With the presidential
for the Chinese government to sustain theiroped countries, the whole world is sure toence the post-corona world order?

wearing masks. Public health insurance

approach to counter China.

side. However, it is also dangerous to holdnational leadership when compared topositively, as you can see almost everyone“a-whole-of-the-government pushback”

just around the corner, everyone is now

fact that communities of color are being hit

minding your neighbors or other's eyes inplaced as the cornerstone of Japanʼs foreign

relations as the US gradually changes to

Ⅱ , the United States enacted the MarshallMotegi: There are voices expressing

faced before the pandemic. On the otherwill be a shift in attitude towards US-China

having institutions like CDC and FEMA,York and the virus has taken a deadly tollequality, which is a reality that the country

ances and have many shared values, I thinktheir attitude towards China. I think there

Xiaoping proposed a policy called “touk-

only in America but also in other devel-

but the grass is always greener on the otherdisproportionately is the result of social in-

Kubo: Because Japan and America are alli-

Even Democratic politicians have hardened

been destroying their chance of accelerat-rise up to 20%. As fiscal deficit deepens not

This page is particularlyaccessible
only to AJS members.
concern over America’s decline in interon African Americans. The
health officials, a tendency that can someTrump does not have much respect towards

China?

oping, China could have transformed into
このページは会員限定コンテンツ
Fujisaki: One issue that China cannot stepa powerful country right under our noses.
However, because he decided not to do so,
the Great Depression. Some people evenback from is their policies on Hong Kong,countries are aware of Chinaʼs rising power.
predict that the unemployment rate mayのため閲覧できません。
Taiwan, Tibet, Uyghur, etc. This issue ishave chosen to reflect the voices of liber-

100,000 deaths are concentrated in New

should they have towards America anddepression that may only be rivaled byhave been voices that criticize Japan for not

to this pandemic. Nearly a quarter of theto condemn various Chinese practices.

Fujisaki: In 1989, around the time ofwhich is an extremely serious economic

このページは会員限定コンテンツ
Fujisaki: It seems like, in this case, theJapan will not be excessively complacentstrictions against China, the administration
with its success. I also know that Americaʼsweaknesses of Western society and thewasted two irretrievable months to prepare.
presence will not decline easily just by one
strengths of Asia happen to come out due
By the time he had declared a national のため閲覧できません。
Although he was quick to impose travel re-

China, but now government officials andNyeʼs advice: “the best propaganda is notof their belated response towards this crisis,

in some states, others have just started totional outbreaks throughout the country.

global power have not succeeded because

ica will face huge economic damage because

Mana Yamanaka, Keio University, AJS interneconomy prematurely may result in addi-ny Huawei. Much of Chinaʼs efforts to gain

example for other countries. I believe Amer-

Writers

economy. I am worried that opening the US

5G network reliant on the Chinese compa-

is because they have failed to act as a good

Riko Matano, Keio University, AJS intern

towards state power, by reopening their

UK is even about to review the policy for its

prestige and global respect has declined

Maki Motegi, the America-Japan Society

failure to act early on in the outbreak. Pres-are on the rise in some parts of Europe. The

Kubo: One of the reasons why Americaʼs

Moderator

the major one would be President Trumpʼs

global backlash and anti-China sentiments

themselves.

Amb. Ichiro Fujisaki, President of the AJS,
and Japanese Ambassador to the UnitedStates from 2008 to 2012

tarians, a group of people who are skeptical

priate. Due to this, China has been facing

ing their dominance on the world stage by

Dr. Fumiaki Kubo, Professor of American
Government and History, Graduate Schools for Law
and Politics, University of Tokyo. Director of AJS.

Kubo: I think there are various reasons, but

the US government as a whole are starting

propaganda.” It seems to me that China has

Speakers

experience a rise in numbers. Some statesfrom China that were considered inappro-

they seem to not fully understand Joseph

Friday, May 29, 2020 Zoom Meetingthe most COVID-19 cases in the world?

been inconsistent with his attitude towardsof the world. There were also supplies sent

THE AMERICA-JAPAN SOCIETY, INC.

Motegi: Why do you think the U.S. has

to help contain the outbreak in other parts

US-China competitions will continue, but

between these two countries will continue
to heat up. I think it all depends on whatkind of foreign policy the next President
will take.

objection as to the Western countries, theycountries and Korea. In 1995, when Taiwan
held the presidential election, China fired

multiple missiles across the Taiwan Strait.
The United States intervened by a fifth

entire aircraft carrier fleets to the territory,

forcing the Chinese government to fully acknowledge the power of American militaryforces. During the crisis, only Japan andAustralia in Asia and Oceania supported

the US intervention. Other Asian countries
exercised restraint for fear of jeopardizing
the relationship with China. While Japanis caught between China and the UnitedStates, I think we should take a bit moreprogressive approach than any other Asian
countries.

Continued on next page.

Motegi: How should the Japanese
government respond to the situationin Hong Kong? What kind of attitude

T h e A m e r i c a -Ja p a n S o c i e t y, I n c .

04

Motegi: The 2020 US presidential election has drawn global attention. Whilesome say that Joe Biden is taking thelead due to Trump’s failed response to
the coronavirus, others say Trump has abetter chance because of his increased
exposure to the mass media. Pleasetell us your thoughts on the upcoming

difference of characters.

tance and value of the US-Japan alliance.

ity of African Americans vote for the Dem-ident Clinton won on 1,500. This means

Kubo: Judging from the results of several

pared to the Trump administration, as thecounterparts cast their vote for the Republi-

Republicans. Obama was neverthelesspolls, I think it is safe to say that Biden isleading over Trump right now. It’ s truethat Trump has an advantage because of his

increased exposure to the media, but he also

has a tendency to spark controversy over hiselections and on the candidates.

comments every time he speaks in public.

Fujisaki: While I was the Ambassador toin favor of Biden. However, we should takethe United States in 2008, the presidential

elections between Obama and McCain took

place. Journalists asked me which candidate

His increased exposure could actually work
note that even amid rising death tolls fromthe coronavirus, Trump’ s approval rate

remains steady at around 40% to 45%. I

However, he may be softer on China comDemocratic party tends to prioritize multilateral relationships and international cooperation. Therefore, China may not perceive theBiden administration as a threat. While weshould expect the Biden administration to be

more internationally cooperative, it may seek
the autotelic diplomacy with China. Thisis my concern. I would expect Biden to bestrict with China while taking international
initiatives.

think that Trump wants to turn this election

Fujisaki: I think that the government’ still the day. And you open the box and cry

my. Therefore, one main debate during thiselected. I also think that the US government

this as a joke but there is some truth toeconomic recovery. The protests coming

Japan preferred, and I replied, “Itʼs likea Christmas gift. You donʼt say anythingout, ‘Oh this is just what I wanted!’” I said
this. Japan will have to maintain a friendly relationship with whoever is elected. I

think the outcome will be reliant on many

into a referendum on reopening the econo-

election will likely be over public health andfrom business owners, libertarians, and religious conservatives have drawn comparison
to the Tea Party movement. Trump may

actions will be easier to predict if Biden iswill start to work as a team and extend theapproach with global alliances. Relying upona bit more mercenary motives, Biden willprobably rejoin the Paris Agreement and Iran
Nuclear Deal. Although we should welcome

このページは会員限定コンテンツ
voices continue to amplify.
may create, we should be cautious as they
may try to reset the relationships with China
Motegi:
It
is
said
that
Abe-Trumpfriendand DPRK. Both of us should play as a team.
One of Trump’ s strengths is that inapproのため閲覧できません。
variables from the economy down to any
inappropriate remarks. I think both can-have a chance of getting reelected if these

the stability that the Biden administration

didates have very different characteristics.

priate remarks will not smear him anymore

ship has promoted Japanese interests

ocrats, whilst more than half of the whitecans. In addition, 70% of the Hispanics also
uphold the Democrat party. In this context,
we should focus on who will be nominatedas the vice president by Biden. Kamala Harris, an African American senator or Cortez
Masto, a Hispanic senator are one of thestrong candidates.

Biden has a national lead over Trump, but I

don’ t know for sure what will happen. It isinteresting to keep paying attention to the

Kubo: I think there will be some reassur-

ance that Biden is fully aware of the impor-ment against the US-China relation regardless of the US presidential election
result, where should we hold ground?
Kubo: If Trump is to be inaugurated as thenext president, Japan should ensure that
the United States launch prior consulta-

tion on revising its China policy. As for the
Biden administration, it is imperative to

advocate the need to alter US perception

towards Japan and its allies. For instance,

John Kerry, the US secretary of state deliv-05

A J S e Ne w s l e tte r 2 02 0

ered controversial rhetoric during his visit
to Asia in 2014, in which he singled out

climate change as the existential threat in
Asia. Like so, we should pay attention to

ing that everyone is born equal. Nonetheless, some condemn affirmative actions as

excessive. One example is the LGBT policy
under the Obama administration. The

second case in point is against immigrant
inflows. There are many voices assailing

illegal immigrants and DREAMers. Trump

the fact that the Democratic administration

pugnance. Most Americans would classify

may move in a bit detached from national
security realities.

Fujisaki: I believe the Security Treaty willremain under the Biden administration;

however, Japan should advise the U.S. tovigorously pursue negotiations of arms control treaties with China. Furthermore, it is

Kubo: In the racially diversified US soci-ety, conflicts and confrontations have been
inevitable and widely known. The current
dispute has not occurred out of the blue.

The social division can be clearly observedin the presidential election. The vast major-

prioritizes the defense spending cut, that

Trump became prominent for his irratio-

conflict between WASPs and non-WASP is

deeply rooted in identity, following with is-sues of immigration, I think it will continue
to be coupled with problems. Secondly, thepotential for political convergence is unde-niable. Both parties share mutual values on

economic policies. For instance, the Democrats and Republicans promote protection-much by President Trump's personal

the Democratic party, the United States is

expected to be more calculating. Yes, in the
Obama administration, the United States

took a tougher stance towards China, under
Kurt Campbell. We have to cooperate with

the U.S. regardless of who will be the Presi-

dent.

ism. In spite of the Republicans’ worship

Question F: What are Trump’s counter-

preferential treatment on condition of thefor Trump may now have some antipathy

Fujisaki: Formerly, the two parties pursued

timents are enlarging in the United States.

freedom whilst the Democrats advocatedthe Hong-Kong uprising, US government

Question C: What would attract the un-tion introduced fiscal consolidation charac-

treatment partially or even completely. This

One Country Two Systems. If the United

values, with Republicans
States is to take countermeasures against
This page isdistinct
accessible
only aspiring
to AJS members.
equality. Even so, the Clinton administra-terized by Republican ideologies and Trump

stances?

has done pork-barrel spending. The two

Kubo: The unaffiliated voters who prioritize

ideologies for their own benefits. However, I

would support the Republican Party. More-influence on the presidential election?

strict against China. Meanwhile, if Biden

Question D: Are the divisions in Ameri-

themselves as anti-racist if asked, however,people who prefer reopening the economy

cial discrimination movement have anwith his tough approach, the policy may get

このページは会員限定コンテンツ
measures to Hong-Kong?
of a small government, the two parties met
an agreement on fiscal expenditure. Their
Kubo: The United States already enacted
many of them may be working hard to beのため閲覧できません。
principles for infrastructure investment are
so. It is impossible to have an insight into
similar as well.
legislation against Hong-Kong, giving trade
has been successfully exploiting this re-the Trump administration. On the contrary,

Question B: How would the ongoing ra-

Campbell joins the Biden administration

relations with Prime Minister Abe. Under

effort to counter such sentiments by teach-nomic reform, are not expected to support

namely the UN.

decide who wins the election.

China, which may actually not exist. If Kurt

nally offensive remarks. For one thing, thethe prevention of Covid-19 over the eco-vital to embrace international organizations

ban areas would be the predominant key toand they have been exerting strenuous

controversial in the United States for long,

over, wearing a mask or not has become an
Question A: If Japan is to make a state-

population. I believe the votes in the subur-

Fujisaki: It is noted that Japan was helped

affiliated voters under current circum-

QUESTIONSFROMOBSERVERS

seems no central axis of policy towards

special worldview. Hence, I am afraid there

Kubo: We cannot deny that President

against him. Accordingly, the ‘unseen’ sen-how do you think this will affect theelected on account of the growing urban

Fujisaki: Racial discrimination has beenThis page isUS-Japan
accessible
relations? only to AJS members.

resilient. The polls right now suggest thatited to trade deficit, failing to possess any

will be a concern.

one’ s mind. Also, those who once voted

who has a nice character but maybe lessrural residents are inclined to vote for thecan society going to continue hereafter?

in many ways. If Joe Biden is elected,

as everyone has got used to it, unlike Bidenconcern in relation to China is only lim-

issue to show his/her political message, as

President Trump demonstrates reluctance.
Meanwhile, Biden is spotted with an os-

tentatious manner of wearing an oversizedmask. Masks symbolize the nominees’ political position on the COVID-19 outbreak.
Likewise, it may be a point to carefully

observe the outbreak in the US, by which

the mindsets of nonpartisans will fluctuate.

political parties incorporate one anotherʼs

could impair American industries, none-

theless, Trump would presumably employ
measures to a certain extent.

do not think the bilateral compromise would

Fujisaki: I think the people who need theAmericans have a tendency to unite in re-public, although they will never admit it.

reconcile the existing differences. Althoughsponse to wars, the COVID-19 outbreak is

nothing like a war. We need that the U.S. isa country of “a grand social experiment.” It

may not be easy for Americans to integrate,
however, I believe their strength is that ev-

eryone shares the same fundamental beliefs
such as the founding father's going throughphilosophy.

US to take a firm stand are the Chinese

Hong-Kong is approaching a middle pointof 50 years under the One Country Two
Systems. This is the time the people ofHong-Kong are trying hard to maintainwhat they had been given, however, China
would tighten its grips. Although Europe

was once attracted to China's wealth, now
they may be reconsidering. I think many

countries tacitly Americaʼs role in object-

Question E: Would the US soften its
China policy under the Biden administration?

Fujisaki: In the past, Obama and GoreKubo: China must regard the current

counties out of 3,100, whilst former Pres-ously challenging China. It seems Trumpʼs

only managed to win on approximately 500

officials may suspend the preferential

ing to China. It is worth the United States
would continue its stance towards approaching the Hong-Kong issue.

Trump administration as a country vigor-

T h e A m e r i c a -Ja p a n S o c i e t y, I n c .

(END)

06

FY2019 ACTIVITIESCentennial Programs

Regular Programs

2019
Brownbag Lunch Meeting
AJS Golf Competition President Kishi Cup*Cancelled due to bad weather
p.10 Yokota U.S. Air Base & Ishikawa Brewery Tour
p.9

p.10

May 13

May 22
Jun 17

The U.S.-Japan Liaison MeetingJun 24JAXA Tsukuba Space Center TourJun 28Y

Photo 4

The 84th AJS Ordinary General Meeting

Jul 5

Talk with Senpai!

Y Ms. Risa Ishii, AJS intern graduate Aug 6
Y
p.9

Photo 7p.10

p.9

Programs for youth/student members.

September Lecture by Ms. Junko Koshino

Sep 25p.10 American Studies Conference 2019

Oct 4

A Nomu-Nication Program with ACCJ and CCBJ

Oct 25

Reception at U.S. Ambassador’s Residence

Nov 7

AJS Golf Competition President Fukuda Cup

Nov 15Photo 8December Lecture by Mr. Tim Griffin,
Lieutenant Governor for the State of Arkansas

Dec 2

Extra program by Mr. Kazuo Okamoto,Executive Director of AJS

Dec 12

p.10

Photo 10AJS Xmas Party

Extra program Mr. Kazuo Okamoto,Executive Director of AJS

Jan 21January Lecture by Mr. Shingo Yamagami,
Director-General/Assistant Minister of
Economic Affairs Bureau, MOFAJan 23Luncheon Meeting at U.S. Ambassador’s Residence
for Gold & Silver Corporate members

Jan 28

Photo 11

Photo 12

Photo 13

Y Intern’s Alumni reunion “Tameike-kai” Jan 31

p.9 February Lecture by Mr. Motohiko Izawa, a writerJun 12NGRT by Mr. Arthur Mitchell, Senior Counselor, White& Case LLPJul 1

NGRT Independence Day Party

Jul 4

VSJ Report Session

Jul 20The 2nd America Bowl

Jul 23

VSJ Report Session

Aug 8

VSJ Report Session

Aug 28

Report Session by the America Bowl Winning Teams

Aug 29VSJ Report Session

Sep 4

NGRT by Mr. Chris Blackerby, Group COO at Astroscale

Sep 26

VSJ Report Session

Oct 15NGRT by Mr. Yoshihisa Komori,Japan’s Sankei Shimbun Newspaper

Nov 6

NGRT by Mr. Yasumasa Yamamoto,Industry partner at dnx ventures

Nov 22

The 3rd Kaneko Award Ceremony

Jan 8

NGRT by Dr. Takuya Kitagawa,Managing Executive Officer, Rakuten Inc.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

Photo 2

Photo 3
Photo 5

p.11

p.12

Photo 6

p.11

Photo 9Dec 17Y AJS Lecture by Ms. Akiko Kuno, AJS Vice President Jan 15*Postponed due to flu
p.9

NGRT by Ms. Mieko Nakabayashi, PhD. Professor
School of Science Social Waseda University

May 21

April Lecture by Dr. Okio Hino,
Emeritus Professor of Juntendo University

Photo 1

May 7

Feb 12NGRT by Mr. Yutaka Arima, Deputy Director Generalof North American Affairs Bureau, MOFAMar 23

Photo 15NGRT Speaker: Mr. Glen S. Fukushima,
Senior Fellow Center for American Progress Former
President

Apr 28NGRT Virtual MeetingFeb 20Y AJS BOWLING GAME *Cancelled due to COVID-19 Mar 5
Y "Talk with Diplomats!” by Mr. Kohei Kawabata, MOFA Mar 10
p.3

March Lecture by Prof. Fumiaki Kubo,
PhD Professor of University of Tokyo*Postponed due to COVID-19 outbreakMar 252020
07

A J S e Ne w s l e tte r 2 02 0

p.11

T h e A m e r i c a -Ja p a n S o c i e t y, I n c .

08

FY2019 Regular/Special ProgramF Y 2 019

We held various types of events for the wide age range of members.
＊ Some of the events are subject to age restrictions.

Monthly Lectures＊ Due to the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak this year,
the event at the venue will be held in accordance with future conditions.

Yokota U.S. Air Base (YAB)& Ishikawa Brewery TourJul

5

32 members gathered for the tour of the U.S.

military base and the Ishikawa brewery, which
is famous for its "Tama Jiman." There wereno Ospreys parked at the base, but it was
spectacular to see the inside of the basefrom the bus window.

22

The 84th AJS Ordinary General Meeting
We have monthly programs which are not only lecturing but conducting discussions through Q&A
having prominent figures on the timely subjects. Monthly lecture program is held at White & Case
LLP. Thanks to Mr. Takashi Oi, simultaneous tlanslation is available.

The General Meeting was held at the International House of Japanand about 90 AJS members attended. Mr. Watanabe, who has
supported our society for many years, has retired. Mr. Okamoto has
been appointed as Executive Director.
Jan

23
Mr. Shingo Yamagami
Director-General/Assistant Ministerof Economic Affairs Bureau, MOFA

Nov

Sep

17

25

Dr. Okio Hino

Professor of Juntendo University"Cancer philosophy"

Dr. Hino gave brief but thoroughexplanations on cancer philosophy.
One of the memorable quotes fromhis lecture was “Facing with cancer issimilar with facing with the patientʼscharacteristics.”

Ms. Junko Koshino, Designer"America/World and Me""Presidential election of 2020"

A J S e Ne w s l e tte r 2 02 0

Feb

20

Writer of Japanese History

２

the U.S.-Japan relations from the viewpoint of Republicans. His
analysis on the U.S. presidential election 2020 was very sharp09

AJS Reception was held at the U.S. Ambassadorʼs Residence byspecial courtesy of Mr. Joseph M. Young, Chargé d'Affaires ad interimof the Embassy. We enjoyed networking with a buffet-style dinnerMr. Motohiko Izawa

Mr. Griffin talked about the presidential election of 2020 andand persuasive.

AJS Reception at U.S. Ambassador’s Residence

her private experiences and careerachievements.

Lieutenant Governor for the State of Arkansas

4negotiations, and WTO reforms.

world-leading fashion designers herself,and her talk, which was mainly on both

Dec

Oct

Mr. Yamagami gave us a talk on recent
hot issues: the recent US-Japan trade
agreement, the U.S.-Japan digitaltrade agreement, the G20, RCEPThe audiences were intrigued andinspired by Ms. Koshino, one of the

Mr. Tim Griffin

American Studies
Conference 2019
This program provides research grants to Japanese
graduate students studying about U.S. withsupport from the U.S. Embassy. 18 successfulrecipients presented their research findings.

7"Recent US-Japan Relations"
Jun

May

"Pradoxical US-Japan History"
Mr. Izawa stressed that our history

education in Japan has been ignoring
the influence incurred by religions
and consequently how that has
affected the reality, as repeatedly
stated in his works.

and a chorus performance of “Sukiyaki” by the AJS interns.

Dec

17

Xmas PartyAJS Xmas Party is one of the

Talk with Diplomats!
The interns organized a discussion with young
diplomat from the North American Bureau of
MOFA. He answered a lot of questions
from students related to career advice
and diplomacy.

Mar

10

popular events for members.

Last yearʼs party was full of joywith a fun quiz and gift exchange
to interact with each other. Oneof the AJS student interns andhis guest showed us a beautiful

performance of violin and piano.
T h e A m e r i c a -Ja p a n S o c i e t y, I n c .

10

AJS

Centennial Programs

1

The centennial programs were established in 2017, the year of the 100th anniversary of AJS.
There are four programs run with the AJS centennial fund by members and other organizations.

The Kaneko Award
The Award is given to those who worked for longyears to promote people-to-people exchanges

between U.S. and Japan. Round-trip air tickets are
given to them as a prize. (Sponsored by ANA)The 3rd Kentaro Kaneko Award was given to Ms.
Rinsberg, who has hosted many Japanese homestay
families over the past 35 years, Mr. Nagatani, who has
contributed to U.S.-Japan relationship through C&W
music, and the Special Award was given to Dr. Sen
Genshistu, Grand Master 15th Urasenke, who has madea significant contribution through tea ceremony.

2

Mr. Charlie Nagatani（Recommended by AmericaJapan Society of Kumamoto）

Dr. Genshitsu Sen（Recommended by AmericaJapan Society of Kyoto）

The five successfulrecipients presented

This program provides financial support to the U.S. graduate students who study about Japan or
U.S.-Japan relations. (Sponsored by ANA, Collaboration with MOFA)“Raising Smiling
Fathers: The
Construction of
Masculinity in Japan.”“From Global Field toDevelopment Chains:
Comparing NGOs fromJapan, South Korea,
and the U.S.”“Taiwanese SettlerMigrants and Makingof Japanese Empire
in South China andSoutheast Asia”

Ms. Leah Justin-Jinich

Mr. Evan Koike

Ms. Mary Collier Wilks

Harvard University

University of British
Columbia

University of Virginia

Mr. James Gerien-Chen“U.S. Military Basesand U.S.-Japan
Cultural Exchange.”“Exploring therelationship between‘Kyōka’ and ‘Ukiyo-e’
made by Hiroshige
Utagawa”

Mr. Carl Gabrielson
University of California,
Santa Barbara

their Japan-related
research findings.
They reaffirmed

their understandingof Japanese culture
and history.

America Bowl

4

This is a quiz competition about American topics
for Japanese high school students.Winningteams visit to Washington D.C. in the summer.
(Supported by ANA, Sophia University.
Subsidized by United States-Japan Foundation.
Collaboration with MOFA, US Embassy, ZER,
JASWDC, JEES. Decoration support by Hotel
New Otani Tokyo)

Next Generation's Roundtable in Tokyo
issues of their interest in English. (Sponsored by Mori Building Co., Ltd.)

which is held irregularly after the meeting, is also a great
opportunity to deepen their exchanges.

In April, the NGRT is held
its first virtual meeting. We
discovered the importanceof using online to stayconnected and keep thediscussion going.
A J S e Ne w s l e tte r 2 02 0

University of California,
Berkeley

Winner Interview
Shun Takano, a freshman at Keio
University who won the America
Bowl last year, has become a student
intern. We interviewed him about his
memories of the tournament and his
ambitions for his college life.
<Excerpts from the interview>
The America Bowl is not just a quiz tournamentthat you can answer with knowledge, but you need
English and critical skills to solve the questions. I was
impressed by my team members who were able to get
the answers to the questions that none of the otherstudents could answer correctly. As a result of thewin, I was able to go to the United States for the firsttime. I met many people who changed my views andvalues. From now on, as an AJS intern, I would like toMonthly meeting for under age of 40 Americans and Japanese to meet each other discussing

We began our third term in October 2019. This term, we
have about 70 members, including Japanese and American
working in a various industries and sectors. Nomi-kai,

11

Ms. Helen Rindsberg（Recommended by JapanAmerica Society of Greater
Cincinnati）

3

Visit & Study Japan Program

be involved with management of the next American
Bowl Tournament, using my experience. I also want
The 2nd America Bowl was held with about 150 high school
students from 52 school. At the semi-final and final round,
Princess Takamado attended to watch the competition.

★ RESULT OF THE 2ND AMERICA BOWL 2019
Gold: Keio Senior High School

Takuro Kawaguchi, Shun Takano, Sunao Machi

Silver: Kaisei High School

Shota Tsuji, Shunsuke Nishimori

Bronze: Kaichi Mirai High School

Tatsuya Omoto, Miyu Takasawa, Sakuya Yamanoi

to become a doctor in the future, so I will work on mystudies hard.
Read the full article on web
URL：https://bit.ly/3f8mv0R

QUIZ from America Bowl

Every year on the third Monday of February, Americans celebrate“Presidents Day.” This holiday mainly celebrates two presidents who
were born in February. One is George Washington. Who is the other?
Find the answer on page 13.

T h e A m e r i c a -Ja p a n S o c i e t y, I n c .

12From the AJS office
About 85th General Meeting
Due to the COVID-19, the following schedule has been adjusted.
Please check for further details as they become available.
General Meeting : Thursday, September 17, 2020

The America-Japan Society, Inc.

AJS

eNewsletter

New Member's Application
Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, we are unable to conduct face-to-

face interviews for applicants. Therefore, for the time being, we will
use a document review of application form and recommendation.
Please note that we may change this method depending on thesituation.

Special Issue

Change Registered Information
If you change your address, phone number, or other information inyour registration, please contact the secretariat. To ensure that you
receive event announcements and important notices, please send
them to us as soon as possible.

Checklist of registration information:□ Email address □ Phone number □ Fax number □ Home
address □ Workplace and title □ Office address & contact

Meet our new staff member!
In April, the AJS welcomed new staff member

Ms. Maki Motegi who has just graduated from
Tokyo Gakugei University in this spring. She
had been an intern with the AJS since her

freshman year of University and participatedin many AJS programs. Meet Maki Motegi!

It's been 5 years since I joined the AJS as an intern. I am excited to begin officiallyworking at the AJS as it combines many passions in my life. These include working
with our great members, the use of technology and creativity, and the exploration andinnovation of the new programs. Looking forward to seeing you in person!

Editor's note

As we cannot run regular meetings and events due to the
COVID-19, we are publishing this special issue of theNewsletter to keep our members up to date on the activitiesof the AJS. We hope that this situation will be improved soon

Published on June 30th, 2020
Digital version
EDITORS/PUBLISHERS:
Executive Director
Kazuo Okamoto
Office Manager
Kaoru Yoshida
Staff
Maki Motegi
CONTRIBUTING EDITORS
Student Intern
Riko Matano
Student Intern
Mana Yamanaka
PROOFREADERS
Student Intern
Haruna Fujii
Student Intern
Student Intern

Shun Takano
Yosuke Satomi

We would appreciate any comments orsuggestions.
The America-Japan Society, Inc.
M-City Akasaka 1-chome Bldg. 8F
1-11-28, Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-0052
TEL：03(5388)6344 FAX：03(5388)6355
E-mail：info@ajstokyo.org

Website : http://ajstokyo.org/
Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/ajstokyo/
Twitter : https://twitter.com/ajs_tokyo

and that all the activities of the society will be restored. All of
us are looking forward to seeing you again.

Answer of the quiz (p.12): Abraham Lincoln©2020 The America-Japan Society, Inc.