Japan on March 11 marked the anniversary of the Tohoku earthquake and tsunami that killed nearly 16,000 people, leveled coastal communities and plunged the nation into a nuclear crisis.
The Consulate General of Japan in Atlanta joined other Japanese communities around the world to mourn the tragedy.
On Friday, March 9, the consulate held a moment of silence at 2:46 p.m., the time the earthquake struck on a Friday last year. The event included a display of photographs showing reconstruction efforts, a flower arrangement and a traditional tea ceremony.
In brief remarks, Consul General Takuji Hanatani emphasized his country’s gratitude for the outpouring of U.S. support. Americans have given more than $630.2 million to the relief effort, according to to a survey of organizations by the Japan Center for International Exchange.
“Japan has come a long way in just one year. While we have a long way to go, we will persevere because we are not alone in this effort. We have you, our friends in the United States of America,” Mr. Hanatani said.
Read GlobalAtlanta’s special report on Japan and how Georgia responded at www.globalatlanta.com/japanreport.
A charity screening of the documentary film “Pray for Japan”, which focuses on the aftermath of the tragedy from four perspectives, was held March 14 at Phipps Plaza. Click here for more information.
VIsit the Japanese consulate’s website at http://www.atlanta.us.emb-japan.go.jp.
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