My Trip to Washington, D.C. !
This week I was invited by the US Congressman Jake Auchincloss of Massachusetts to be his guest at the Joint Meeting of Congress on April 11, 2024 for the speech by His Excellency Kishida Fumio, the Prime Minister of Japan. It was a great honor to attend this event in person, and an opportunity for me to share the importance of culture and music to unite people together.
It is a different atmosphere when one is in the center of government. It is full of ceremony and dignity, but also tight security and scheduling. After a day spent in the Longworth Building where the members of the House of Representatives have offices and chambers for meetings, all I could feel was the need for music for these hardworking people to brighten their emotional health.
The Prime MInister's speech was very interesting and he delivered his speech in English. Apparently he lived for three years in New York City when he was a child. Because of close control and security, I was unable to deliver the Suzuki books (that came from the Talent Education Institute in Matsumoto) directly to the Prime Minister. Furthermore, no electronic devices were allowed so that I could not even take photos! However, I was able to give Congressman Auchincloss a copy of the newer translation of Dr. Suzuki's book, Nurtured By Love, and his office will make sure the gift of Dr. Suzuki's books in Japanese will be delivered to the Japanese Embassy.
It was interesting to hear how Japan may become an active partner with the United States in a spirit of democracy and peace. Congressman Auchincloss' viewpoint of this state visit is that Japan has stepped up to be an important ally to the United States in the Pacific. Many times, the Prime Minister said that Japan would like to share in the burden of maintaining freedom and independence from oppressed societies and to support the US's position on the current international conflicts. I spoke with Congressman Auchincloss to share my views on the importance of cultural exchanges to bring people together. Congressman Auchincloss is already aware of how the arts were badly hit during the pandemic. Nonetheless, cities and towns have started leaning on the performing arts to play a major role in revitalizing local businesses and commercial districts. It is music and the arts that draw people together.
This was Dr. Suzuki's message in post-World War II Japan. We need to nurture our children with music, so that they will cultivate beauty in their hearts and deepen their humanity. When this is a part of our children's education and they become leaders, perhaps we can sustain a peaceful world and believe in a brighter future.