Okinawa Protests Japan’s ‘Restoration of Sovereignty Day’

Note: This posting is the first of the “After UTS III” series.  We want to continue the conversation that began at Uchinanchu Talk Story III.  We hope to bring to people’s attention recent news and developments affecting the people of Okinawa and so provide a forum for discussing our common concerns.

 

Futenma Base in the middle of Ginowan city

Futenma Base in the middle of Ginowan city

 

The Okinawan prefectural assembly recently passed a unanimous resolution rejecting the Japan government’s decision to celebrate “Restoration of Sovereignty Day.”  The Ryuku Shimpo commissioned a poll that found that approximately 80 percent of the heads of municipalities within Okinawa prefecture oppose any such celebration.

Under the terms of the Treaty of San Francisco in 1952, Japan received back its independence in exchange for Okinawa remaining under U.S. military rule.  Thus, for Okinawa the occasion of the signing of the Treaty of San Francisco (April 28) is known as “Humiliation Day.”

The Japan government’s decision to go ahead with the celebration despite vehement objections in Okinawa has caused some to voice concern about whether Japan is a true democracy.  The Ryuku Shimpo wrote:

If Japan is a true democracy, and if it’s leaders wish to show they are willing to listen to the voice of Okinawans, their only choice is to forego holding this ceremony. The ceremony is also intended to commemorate the “60 year anniversary of Japan’s return to the international community.” But while the inequalities of the Japan-U.S. Status of Forces Agreement are ignored, and servile diplomatic relations toward the United States continue, can Japan really puff itself up with pride at a “Restoration of Sovereignty?”

Read more at Moderate Voice: “Prime Minister Abe to Humiliate Okinawa with ‘Restoration of Sovereignty Day’ (Ryuku Shimpo Shimbun, Japan)”

See also Forbes Magazine: “As Japan Commemorates a Postwar Return to Sovereignty, Okinawans Lament a Day of Shame

UTS III — Lt. Gen. Gregson’s speech

 

Keynote speaker, Lt. General Wallace Gregson Ret., former commander, US Marine Forces Pacific, explains how Okinawa’s geography has shaped its history and present day situation.  The speech was given at the East-Weste Center symposium, Uchinanchu Talk Story III, March 10, 2013.

Gen. Wallace "Chip" Gregson delivering his speech on 10 March 2013.

Lt. Gen. Wallace “Chip” Gregson (Ret.).

To hear Gen. Gregson’s speech visit here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n_9VjXP9yUs

UTS III — Welcome Message by John Tasato

 

WUB Hawaii President John Tasato welcomes Uchinanchu Talk Story III.

WUB Hawaii President John Tasato welcomes Uchinanchu Talk Story III.

Aloha!  Haisai!

We just completed the successful Uchinanchu Talk Story III “U.S. Bases in Okinawa Forum.”  The conference was held at the East-West Center on March 10.  The purpose of the conference was not to make policy, nor to make a statement, but to learn more about a complex issue and just as importantly to ask questions.

We were honored to have Hawaii Governor Neil Abercrombie and Lt. General Wallace “Chip” Gregson, (Ret.), former Commanding General US Marine Force Pacific (MARFORPAC) as our keynote speakers.  In light of the high level of interest at the conference and the need to keep the conversation going we have provided a link to Gov. Abercrombie’s speech and a comment section where you are invited to voice your opinion on the issue.  We ask that you be civil and thoughtful in your comment speaking to the issue and refraining from personal attacks.

WUB Hawaii is proud to be partners with Akisamiyo-! and the East-West Center.  It is through partnering together that we will strengthen our community locally and around the world.

John Y. Tasato
President, WUB Hawaii