Tokyo 2020 "Thank You" Host Town Initiative Dialogue and Brainstorming Session
The countdown to the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games is on, and preparations are underway across Japan to welcome athletes, officials, and fans from around the world. One such initiative is the ARIGATO Host Town Initiative, a program established in 2017 to foster international friendship and cultural exchange.
The initiative, which means "thank you" in Japanese, is a joint effort between the Japanese government, local communities, and various organisations, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Secretariat of the Headquarters for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games (Cabinet Secretariat of Japan).
The ARIGATO Host Town Initiative aims to create a hospitable environment for visitors by promoting mutual understanding and goodwill through cultural, educational, and sporting activities. Host towns, such as Hanamaki City, organise events and exchanges to welcome international visitors, showcase Japanese culture, and deepen international ties.
Baseball legend Hisanori Takahashi, a commentator and former Major League Baseball (MLB) and Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) player, will participate in the sessions, contributing to the program's mission of bridging connections between the U.S. and Japan.
Mary Zunick, the Cultural Affairs Manager of Visit Hot Springs, will also be in attendance. She will discuss the relationship between Hot Springs and Hanamaki City, highlighting the collaborative efforts between the host towns.
Students from Hanamaki East High School will also be present, demonstrating the initiative's commitment to engaging the younger generation in cross-cultural learning.
The ARIGATO Host Town Initiative is significant in that it goes beyond competitive sports to emphasise gratitude and global friendship. By fostering human connections, the program enriches the Olympic experience and leaves a positive social legacy in local communities.
Moreover, the initiative serves as a platform for disaster-stricken areas to display their recovery and revitalization efforts. The event is further hosted by the Consulate-General of Japan in Los Angeles, underscoring the global reach of the initiative.
In conclusion, the ARIGATO Host Town Initiative is a testament to Japan's commitment to promoting international goodwill and cultural diplomacy. By fostering international friendship and cultural exchange, the program enhances global understanding, community engagement, and leaves a lasting positive impact on both hosts and guests during and after the Tokyo 2020 Games.
The ARIGATO Host Town Initiative, a program promoting international friendship and cultural exchange, also engages the younger generation in cross-cultural learning by inviting students from Hanamaki East High School. In addition, this initiative showcases the importance of art and education in community development, as it provides opportunities for local artists and educators to share their culture with international visitors.
