2022 Spring Workshop in Los Angeles

May 13, 2022 - Los Angeles, CA

On May 13, 2022, a spring networking reception was held at the residence of the Consul General of Japan in Los Angeles. Titled Reignite the Sister City Community!, this event was co-sponsored by three organizations: the Consulates General of Japan in Los Angeles and San Francisco and the California-Japan Sister Cities Network.

Approximately 40 people representing 14 sister city programs in Southern California attended. It was the first in-person reception in Los Angeles for CJSCN’s network.

The event began with words of welcome from Consul General Akira Muto, followed by remarks by CJSCN Board President Meg Mizutani. Ms. Mizutani expressed gratitude to both consulates for their continuing support and partnership and outlined CJSCN’s mission. The CJSCN board members present at the event were: Bryan Takeda (Pasadena), Teruko Weinberg (Los Angeles), Steven Sigafus (San Diego), Kathleen Kimura (San Francisco and Millbrae), and Meg Mizutani (Sebastopol).

Ms. Mizutani invited the attendees to observe a moment of silence in honor of Secretary Norman Mineta, who was a strong advocate of citizen diplomacy. She shared that Secretary Mineta had given words of encouragement to CJSCN when the network was first being set up. She expressed her commitment to keeping his legacy alive.

After that, the Honorable Joe Buscaino, a council member of the city of Los Angeles and national board member of Sister Cities International, and Dr. Anthony Al-Jamie, president of the Southern California Chapter of Sister Cities International, spoke about the importance of sister city programs and their commitment to citizen diplomacy. Mr. David Bracey, secretary of the Southern California Chapter of Sister Cities International talked about an upcoming youth summit organized by the chapter. Following the dignitaries’ remarks, CJSCN Board Member Bryan Takeda gave a toast.

The attendees were divided into four breakout groups based on their city’s geographic region. The groups were prompted to share information about their program and discuss how they can collaborate regionally in the future. All of the groups expressed their interest in continuing to meet regionally for mutual support and collaborations.

While enjoying the excellent food prepared by the Consul General’s chef, the group discussion continued at the beautiful garden of the Consul General’s residence. We all appreciated the opportunity to see old friends and meet new people.

CJSCN would like to once again express our deep gratitude to Consul General Muto and Mrs. Muto for hosting this event at their residence. We also would like to thank consulate staff in Los Angeles, our other co-host the Consulate General of Japan in San Francisco, our sponsors, and all of the attendees. We look forward to seeing more collaborative work in the future!

Resources

• Event highlights video (also viewable below)