JapanFest 2011
(September 17-18, 2011)
Guests at the JIC Booth
JapanFest 2011 saw the largest crowds ever in its 25-year history. With attendance of over 19,000 (with an estimated 10,000 on Saturday alone), it seemed as if all of the metro Atlanta area came to support Japan. This year’s theme, “Rise Up Japan!,” resonated deeply with Americans and Japanese alike.
At the JIC booth, a special tribute was made to the members of Operation Tomodachi, a U.S. assistance mission to Japan in the aftermath of the March tsunami, and JET Program participant Taylor Anderson, who was tragically lost after she took tremendous steps to ensure the safety of her students. Many visitors paid tribute not only by coming to the display, but also by making donations to fundraising for the city where Taylor taught, an effort organized by Taylor’s parents.
Exhibit on Taylor Anderson's Work and Operation Tomodachi