Reception for “Japan Day” designation by Massachusetts Legislature (May 7, 2026)
May 8, 2026
On April 28th, the Massachusetts House of Representatives, following last year, adopted a resolution designating May 7th (1843), the day John Manjiro (NAKAHAMA Manjiro) landed in New Bedford, Massachusetts, as "Japan Day" through the initiative of Japanese-American Representative Amy Mah Sangiolo.
On May 7th, the State Senate also adopted a resolution designating May 7 as "Japan Day" through the initiative of Senator Robyn K. Kennedy and Senator Vanna Howard, with Senate President Karen E. Spilka in attendance. In addition, a similar proclamation was issued by Governor Maura Healey and Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll.
On May 7th, to commemorate the passage of the resolutions and issue of the declaration, Consul General Takahashi co-hosted a reception at the Massachusetts State House in collaboration with the House Asian Caucus.
Consul General Takahashi expressed his gratitude to the members of the Massachusetts Legislature and touched upon the dynamic development of recent Japan-U.S. and Japan-Massachusetts relations. He also stated his expectation that Japan-Massachusetts exchanges, including those between Tosashimizu City and its sister cities Fairhaven and New Bedford, will become even more active with the broadcast of the 2028 NHK historical drama "John Man."
Participants deepened their exchanges in a friendly atmosphere while enjoying Japanese cuisine prepared by Chef. Asai, a "culinary diplomat" and Official Chef of Japan’s Overseas Mission.
On May 7th, the State Senate also adopted a resolution designating May 7 as "Japan Day" through the initiative of Senator Robyn K. Kennedy and Senator Vanna Howard, with Senate President Karen E. Spilka in attendance. In addition, a similar proclamation was issued by Governor Maura Healey and Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll.
On May 7th, to commemorate the passage of the resolutions and issue of the declaration, Consul General Takahashi co-hosted a reception at the Massachusetts State House in collaboration with the House Asian Caucus.
Consul General Takahashi expressed his gratitude to the members of the Massachusetts Legislature and touched upon the dynamic development of recent Japan-U.S. and Japan-Massachusetts relations. He also stated his expectation that Japan-Massachusetts exchanges, including those between Tosashimizu City and its sister cities Fairhaven and New Bedford, will become even more active with the broadcast of the 2028 NHK historical drama "John Man."
Participants deepened their exchanges in a friendly atmosphere while enjoying Japanese cuisine prepared by Chef. Asai, a "culinary diplomat" and Official Chef of Japan’s Overseas Mission.
