Japan Times
READER MAIL
March 13, 2008
Japan like many other countries is not without its racists; nor is there any denying that there are staunch advocates of keeping Japanese society as “homogenous” as possible. Anecdotal evidence suggests, however, that the average Japanese citizen by and large is quite hospitable to immigrants. One indication is the increasing number of international marriages. These marriages are taking place not only in cosmopolitan urban areas but also in rural regions where the shortage of prospective brides is serious enough to threaten the future of Japanese farming.
Another anecdotal indication of changing Japanese attitudes is suggested from several people from India who I know personally. They have told me that although they received racist taunts and other acts of racism while residing in Europe, they have never had such a humiliating experience in Japan, adding that they find themselves more at home in Japan than anywhere else outside of India.
If the Japanese government, politicians and bureaucrats believe that they can solve the looming demographic crisis without considering the option of immigration, then so be it and good luck. However, my compatriots and I would certainly be interested in hearing what their alternative plans are. It would be nice to know that they are at least attuned to the changes in Japanese society and attitudes toward immigrants and are aware of the undeniable contribution that immigrants have made since the dawn of Japanese history.
KO UNOKI
Fujisawa, Japan
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