Monthly Meeting 2016/2017 March 2017
Date: March 6, 2017 (Mon)
Time: 13:00~16:00
Venue: Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu, “PLANETS” (6F)
Fee: 5,000yen for members, 6,000yen for guests
Program: Documentary Film "able" & Afternoon Tea
We had a documentary film show on two Japanese mentally disabled teenagers who stayed with an American couple in Arizona for several months.
We were most honored to have the presence of Mrs. Yasuko Konoe, a cousin of H.M. the Emperor, and Mrs. Mutsuko Kenmochi, representing “able Society” which supports the realization of a truly inclusive society through films.
The film titled “able” moved us deeply. A young couple named Catherine and Mark Ruby decides to host two Japanese mentally disabled teenagers in their home for several months. Gen Watanabe is a 19 year-old with Down’s syndrome, and Jun Takahashi, a 17 year-old with autism. Despite the language and cultural barriers, they gradually overcome challenges and enjoy their new communities.
The film show was followed by afternoon tea.
H.E. Ms. Ndiyoi M. Mutiti, Ambassador of Zambia, proposed a toast.
There were 88 attendees, including H.E. Ms. Martha Lidia Zelayandia, Ambassador of El Salvador, Mme. Momoe Fritz (Micronesia), and Mme. Marlise Vahekeni (Angola).
Flower arrangements
by Ms. Kawamura,
Ms. Kasuga, and Ms. Fuse.