[Presentation Report] October 10, 2024 pal system Tokyo Federation of Consumer Cooperatives Peace and Regional Activities Committee "Considering 'Living Together' ～ Aiming for True Cultural synergy ～"

On October 10, 2024, I had the opportunity to give a lecture at an online event hosted by the pal system Tokyo Federation of Consumer Cooperatives titled "Considering Community Coexistence with Foreign Residents."

Yang, Director and Secretary General, appeared together with Mr. Yoshihiro Yokota from the certified specified nonprofit corporation Ibaraki NPO Center Commons, and introduced JII's activities, including OFP, under the title "Living Together with Foreign Residents: What Each Individual Can Do."

Explaining the current situation of foreigners living in Japan based on data,
We explained the underlying issues of "information deficiency" and "isolation" in relation to the current situation where the basic living environment for foreign residents is not adequately established and the various hurdles they face in their daily lives.

We conveyed the significance and benefits of the OFP system, which creates direct connections between Japanese and foreigners, incorporating the voices of participants.

We also briefly touched on the background and mechanism of the new business "Spot Otonari-san," which is currently being prepared for commercialization.

At the end, there was also time to answer questions from participants while having a discussion with Mr. Yokota.
We were able to think together about how we should respond to the increase in foreign residents and what each of us can do about it.

As a step towards coexistence with foreign residents, here are actions that each Japanese individual can immediately practice:
1. How to Practice "Mutual Understanding" ~ Increasing Opportunities to Get to Know Each Other Personally in Various Ways ~
2. Build Small, Enjoyable Relationships
3. Expand Your Knowledge and Experience
This concludes my proposal.

In the preliminary questions, there were misunderstandings stemming from a lack of knowledge about the situations faced by foreign residents, so I was honestly a bit nervous about what questions I would receive.
I was delighted to receive comments from participants indicating that this lecture inspired them to change their behavior, and it felt great to know that my message was received.

"I am interested in a cultural synergy society and wanted to change my own behavior in some way. Hearing from someone who is actually involved was very helpful."

"It was great to have specific proposals and introductions to activities about what can be done."

"I think we should reconsider the system to have a more positive view of foreigners in Japan, and think about how we would feel if we were in their shoes."

"I was reminded of the importance of everyone living in Japan looking out for one another, noticing the signals of those who are seeking help, and quietly doing what we can to assist."

Thank you very much to everyone at pal system Tokyo and to all the participants who were interested in the topic of Cultural synergy and joined us this time.

Towards true Cultural synergy where foreign residents and others can live together.
JII will continue to make every effort going forward.

* Since 2022, OFP has been operating with grants from the pal system Tokyo Civic Activity Fund.