In the summer of 2008, I took off on an adventure: I moved to Japan to teach English through the JET Program, an official exchange and teaching program sponsored by the Japanese government. I had never been to Asia, didn't speak Japanese, and this was my first time teaching in an official capacity. It totally changed my life.
I fell in love with the country and people, and feel a strong affinity to Japan today. I am an active participant in my local alumni community, attend Japan related events and gardens when possible, and follow Japan-related news. I'm still trying to find a way to get back there- hopefully soon!
On March 11, 2011, a 9.0 earthquake triggered a tsunami that devastated the Tohoku region in Japan. In the west, a lot of what we heard about at the time centered on the Fukushima nuclear reactor, and the widespread devastation. However, like all news, the cycle moved on, and it has been more difficult to find news related to recovery efforts and where things stand now.
Two years later, in March 2013, Wesley Julian, another JET Program alum, successfully funded a Kickstarter campaign to create Tohoku Tomo, a story about "true friendship and commitment to Japan’s recovery by the international community following the Great East Japan Earthquake."
Tohoku Tomo chronicals the efforts of people in the U.S. and Japan to help with recovery, and basic life, after 3/11. I really enjoyed this film for one major reason: it focuses on the good that comes out of each person's efforts, and shows how deeply connected these non-natives feel to Japan. I highly recommend you check out a screening if it's in your area.
Wesley Julian is now trying to fund the 113 Project, which will focus on rebuilding efforts in the Tohoku region. I'm really glad to see this spotlight on the good that is happening in Tohoku, and I hope you get a chance to see the results of either project.
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