No.214 2005.2.9
No.214 2005.2.9
| The title, To Build Bridges, are the words used by Her Majesty Empress Michiko of Japan in her video taped speech for the World Congress of the International Board of Books for Young People (IBBY) held in India in 1998. In one part of the speech, she explained in an easy-to-understand manner how important it is to build bridges. That paragraph consists of just 6 lines. However, her words are moving and have left a lasting impression on me.
Our activities may not attract a lot of attention, but they are supported by many volunteers who are doing whatever they can every day, to promote peace in people’s lives based on the UNESCO spirit. That is, working to build bridges between different races and national borders, and between the government and the general public. Individuals, companies, and groups that are living, working, or located in Meguro, Tokyo have joined hands to hold a charity concert on April 25th (Mon.) under the slogan “Let’s contribute to the disaster relief efforts for Great Sumatra Earthquake/Indian Ocean Tsunami”. The event renewed my belief that the first and most important work is to build bridges, one at a time. In the concert, young people brought up in Meguro will play the piano and the saxophone, and the performance will include a well-known Gershwin melody. We will be grateful if you can cooperate with this event. Whether you are from a hobby group, an alumni society, a business organization, an operator of a flower shop, an owner of a yakitori shop or anyone else, you will be welcome. Let us build bridges that lead to bring a region, and eventually the world, together. |