This seminar was one of four participants could choose to attend. It took place in Tokyo at the Akasaka Prince Hotel where we stayed.

Ishitani Migiwa is the daughter of a man who survived Nagasaki. He used to speak at the JFMF seminars, but he passed away about four years ago of cancer - probably due to his exposure to the radiation. She began by apologizing to us for any pain the actions of the Japanese caused us during World War II. She asked that we convey her apology to any one we know who suffered as well. This brought me, and most of the other teachers in the room (who were just able to hold it together for Mr. Ikeda’s presentation) to tears.

Her descriptions of what it was like after the blast were very similar to that of the other two panelists.

What she talked about was the profound change the Japanese went through after the war ended. They felt betrayed by their leadership. They were taught to believe that the Emperor was a god and that war was good. After the war, they learned that these things were not true. Additionally, they had weapons and then those weapons were taken away (Japan was only allowed a defensive military after the war).

The panel was asked a few questions after their presentations. One thing that was mentioned is that Patriotism is on the rise in Japan - to the point that it seems to be becoming Nationalism. Textbooks are showing this trend as well. There is a concern about this among many teachers. In fact, recently a few teachers that did not sing the national anthem were severely punished.