Say My Name

Jeong Sehee

Hiroshima Jogakuin Middle School

　　What's your name? It's a simple question you've probably been asked hundreds of times, but have you ever really had to think about it? For the 420,000 South Koreans living in Japan, it's not such a simple question. Like my father, I am a South Korean born and raised in Hiroshima. My grandfather and father's generations used Japanese-style names to hide that they are Korean because of discrimination in Japan. The history of discrimination and hate-speech continues today and there are still people hiding their names. Just two years ago, the Asahi Newspaper published data indicating that an average of almost 30% of Japanese people over 18 had a negative image of Korea. This has to change. If we understand each other's cultures, I think discrimination will decrease.

　　Maybe I'd have more influence if I were a K-pop star, but I'm doing what I can as a student. To promote Korean culture, I have joined Hiroshima's Japanese-Korean Friendship Exchange Event and the "Flower Festival", Hiroshima's biggest festival. At the Flower Festival, about 100 of my fellow Koreans and friends join the parade wearing "Hanbok", traditional Korean clothing. Seeing people smile and wave to us makes us all march with a smile. I was disappointed that the parade was cancelled twice because of COVID-19, but I hope my friends and I can smile together in the parade next year.

　　I have done what I can by taking part in cultural events, but there is still so much more work to be done. According to an August article in the Nikkei Weekly, Son Masayoshi, the President of Softbank and the most famously successful Japanese-born Korean in the world, had to deal with discrimination which even led him to suicidal thoughts. He didn't embrace his Korean heritage and name until after college. Saying your own name shouldn't be so hard.

　　I'm speaking about these issues today so I can reach more people and encourage you to think about Korean culture. Many people are interested in K-POP, Korean dramas, and Korean cosmetics, but there is so much more to my country than entertainment and shopping. There is much more to Japan than sumo, sushi, and sakura, right? If we can continue to increase cultural understanding, we can decrease discrimination and the relationship between Japan and Korea will improve. People won't have to hide their names anymore. No one should have to wait until they become a multi-billionaire to be accepted.

　　Discrimination stops people from being open about their identity. This is true not only for Koreans in Japan; it happens to people from "different" cultures all over the world. In 2015, Ban Ki-moon, a Korean and former UN Secretary-General, said "Defeating racism, tribalism, intolerance and all forms of discrimination will liberate us all, victim and perpetrator alike." I want us all to acknowledge and understand each other's differences and end discrimination everywhere.

　　What's your name? My name is Sehee Jeong and I represent Korea, the country I was born to, and Japan, the country I was born in. I hope that together, we can change history for a better tomorrow.

(1st Prize of the 73rd Contest, 2021)

(The World Family Award of the 73rd Contest, 2021)

Big You, Small I

Ohtsuru Yuriko

Obayashi Seishin Joshi Gakuin Middle School

　　Did you ever wonder why we fight? Whether it's between friends, families or even countries, we all do it but, why? I strongly believe that all of us think that "I" am right and "you" are wrong. However, I know how to eliminate fighting. How? By practicing my school motto "BIG YOU, small i." What does it mean? I believe that "BIG YOU, small i" is a combination of kindness with a little bit of putting up with something for the sake of others and a willingness to work generously for others. It does not mean forgetting about yourself or getting walked all over, but it does mean trying to be a better listener, giving the other person a fair chance, forgiving others and wanting to make a situation better.

　　Recently, I had a disagreement with one of the other members of the student council. We were both proud and each of us thought that we were absolutely right. We avoided each other, but when we had to talk, we ended up arguing. "Will you listen to me?" I said, but in fact I wasn't listening to her. All I could think about was how to get her to admit that she was wrong. This is "BIG I, small you", isn't it? I was tired, sad and frustrated from our long argument. Gradually, however, I realized that finding a better solution was more important than winning the argument. Then I tried to keep quiet, tried to listen, and eventually, I suggested blending our views. We made peace.

　　Most of us practice "BIG I, small you" when we argue, because of our pride we think only we are right. However, through debate in school, I learned that opinions cannot only be divided into right or wrong. At first, I was on the affirmative side, but later I was put on the negative side. As I gathered a lot of information on the topic, I began to realize that every opinion has its good and bad points. Yes, sometimes an opinion that seems wrong at first glance could turn out to have something right about it. That is why I think we should listen to other people's opinions better.

　　So, how can we build a better relationship with someone who has a different opinion from ours? I think it is important to have an attitude of working for others. This doesn't only apply to arguments. Now, more than ever, we should not think, "It's OK, if I'm OK." There is a battle and race to get vaccinated against COVID-19. Countries desperately try to look after their own people, but to be really free from COVID-19, I think we need to make sure that all people in the world have access to vaccines. Also, a recent study reported in The Journal of Positive Psychology in 2021, found that happiness comes from trying to work for others, rather than oneself. So, let's not fight and only think of ourselves, let's think of others. We may also end up being happier. Now, let me ask you, starting today, which are you going to practice? "BIG I, small you" or "BIG YOU, small i?"

(2nd Prize of the 73rd Contest, 2021)

For the Happiness of Animals

Sakamoto Aoi

Sakuyakonohana Middle School

　　Do you like animals? I've loved them since I was young. I have a cat called Chikuwa. For a while, my family couldn't decide which cat to buy from which pet shop, but eventually we found Chikuwa. Chikuwa is so cute and she always comforts me. So she is one of my invaluable family members. I also like to read topics or watch TV shows about animals.

　　One day, I learned about cases of animal cruelty. I thought how terrible it was that innocent animals are being hurt. I researched more about what I could do for animals. While I was doing my research, I found that the number of animals who were put down has been decreasing over the last 10 years, but there are still some problems related to animal cruelty today. Do you know about yamishobun? It is one way that animals are being mistreated. Some immoral people, called yamigyosha who buy animals which are thought of as no longer useful, such as those who are not bought quickly from pet shops or can no longer have babies. Some of these animals are put in a poor environment, such as dirty and small places. Others are abandoned. I found these facts when I read an interview by a pet journalist. I was shocked because I think one of the biggest causes of animal mistreatment and death in Japan is the demand for pet shops. Because there are a number of pet shops, there are many animals which are taken by yamigyosha. I thought, I might be contributing to the increase of things like yamishobun. I blamed my lack of knowledge and I was complicit when I saw Chikuwa. But, I know that I cannot change the past. I can only think and act from now about how to solve this problem in Japan.

　　Did you know that in some Western countries, people have tried ways of reducing these problems that Japan hasn't yet? For example, the U.K has a great system. If you want to buy a kitten there, you can't buy very young ones from any pet shops because pet shops are banned from selling kittens and puppies under 6 months old, which is not the case for many pet shops in Japan because many people in Japan think really young animals are cute, and will pay for them without thinking so much about the problems of buying really young animals from pet shops. I think Japan should learn that animals are not human business tools. I hope that everyone learns to respect animals and their lives, so that we can all live together happily. The majority of Japanese get their pets at pet shops. In 2020, 41% of Japanese got their pets at pet shops. We should change this situation. There are some people in Japan who think that there are different ways we can get pets. For example, you can go to an adoption fair to meet and get a pet. However, according to research done by Osaka City, in 2020, only 21% of people in Osaka City knew about adoption fairs. That's such a low number!

　　I think more people should know about adoption fairs. We should change the idea that people should meet their pets at pet shops. You might think that "I can't do anything", but I believe I can help make changes if I want to." This speech is my first step towards the goal of zero animal cruelty in Japan. Why don't you tell others about the problems of animal cruelty and possible solutions like adoption fairs? In fact, because I talked with a teacher about the topic of my speech, she became more motivated to do something to protect animals, so she began to be a member of a cat protection volunteer group in her region. Like this, I have some ways to contribute to cat protection. It will help to change the situation. Another way you can help starts with one finger, by using social media. Now, I have an account on Instagram to share the problems of pets using Chikuwa's picture. Chikuwa_chan_cat. Please help me spread the word by tapping on the pictures twice so that her pictures and my words are seen by more people. Also, our family has decided to adopt a rescued animal if we get another pet. I hope society will have more people like us and the choice of getting animals humanely from places like adoption fairs will become a common one."

(3rd Prize of the 73rd Contest, 2021)

Finally Me

Iwasa Rita

Setagaya Middle School Attached to Tokyo Gakugei University

　　"I wish I were skinnier. I wish I were smarter. I wish I were confident. I wish I were good enough." These were the things I wished when I look in the mirror. I was constantly comparing myself with others. By doing so it made me intrinsically insecure and question my abilities and self worth. Every single day, I was worried about my image. I was afraid of people disliking me more than anything in the world. These thoughts had been wrapping around my head for so long. This is who I was a few years ago.

　　According to International Survey of Youth Attitude, 72.5 percent of Japanese school students like us recognize oneself as worthless. 72.5 percent! This statistic is the highest among all the countries. But why do we think this way? I believe we live in the society in which tells us to be humble. Unconsciously I recognized "humble," a word that means looking down on ourselves. Of course we have to respect others and have harmony. But is it healthy for us to live while considering ourselves as worthless? 

　　There's also a saying, "The nail that stands out will be hammered down." It felt like they were telling me that being unique was a bad thing. I thought I needed to be like everybody else. So I did. I tried to hide my insecurities. I tried to be nice. Once, I even starved myself to lose weight. 

　　One day, my best friend seemed to notice my distraught mind and said, "What happened? It's like I don't know you anymore." We have gone through so many ups and downs together. But she never ever left my side. I knew at one point I had to talk to her about my insecurities and how it had affected me. But I was worried at first because we do not have the culture to openly talk about it to others. However, I thought if I didn't confess my true feelings, I would hurt her again. Once I started talking, words kept pouring out. It came to a point where I could not control myself. That's when she stopped me and looked me straight in my eyes and said, "Rita, know yourself. Know what you are capable of. You are funny, you are beautiful, and you are the sweetest person I have ever known." Then she added, "I just wish you had the confidence." Her words made me realize that I needed to break out of my shell and move forward. By knowing and accepting myself, I can be the person who will say "This is Me."
I know it's difficult for us to accept ourselves. But we only live once. So don't change who you are and what you believe in for others. Make a change for yourself.

　　Now I'm happy with who I am. Because I can only be myself. Because I am perfect in my own unique way. Because I have people who love me. Because I love me. I became the little girl that I used to see in the mirror once again. Now I can proudly say, I'm "Finally Me."

(4th Prize of the 73rd Contest, 2021)

The Amazing Power of Song

Morimoto Anne

Baika Middle School

　　I love singing! In fact, I'm pretty good at it. I also like sharing my gift with others. So, in the past couple of years, I visited more than 40 nursing homes to give volunteer concerts. Now, with the outbreak of the coronavirus, it's not easy anymore. But I do hope that I get to do more concerts soon.

　　My concert program usually consists of nursery rhyme songs and old favorites. For example... (note: Hum the melody of "Sukiyaki Song"). Does it sound familiar? Yes! It's the Sukiyaki Song! It's everyone's favorite! The elderly especially love it!

　　The residents of nursing homes quickly open up to me just after visiting them a couple of times. They treat me as if I'm their grandchild. Some of them really remember details about me. Once, this friendly old man said, "You've grown taller! And, oh! Did you change your glasses? They look good on you!" Wow, he surprised me! He remembered so well!

　　Each resident in a nursing home has a different care situation. A few of them are suffering from serious dementia. They can't even remember the names or faces of their family.

　　There is one lady I cannot forget. Her dementia made her unable to show any facial expression. She also could not talk nor walk. One day, she came to my concert with her daughter. At first, the lady was just watching me with a blank stare. But then, as I started to sing an old nostalgic song, something seemed to change in her. She leaned slightly forward in her wheelchair. She was listening to me. She even began clapping in rhythm to the melody. And then, she smiled! After the concert, her daughter brought her up to me. The lady clutched my hands. She had tears in her eyes. Her daughter started crying, too, and said, "It's been so long since I've seen my mother smile. Thank you so much." Hearing this, I almost cried myself. My singing had brought a smile to this lady's face.

　　Think back to when you were a child. I'm sure there is a song you remember. I'm sure everyone has a favorite childhood song. Just thinking about it makes you smile and you feel warm inside. Why? Because that's what music does! One song is all you need to start feeling positive again. That's the amazing power of song!

　　That's exactly why I want to continue giving volunteer concerts. Maybe one day, I will become a singer. Who knows? But one thing I am sure is that I can make people smile if I sing for them. I want as many people as possible to experience the amazing power of song. And, I know I can do that if I keep on singing.

(5th Prize of the 73rd Contest, 2021)

Deciding on Our Own Future

Daba Sayumi

Tosa Middle School

　　When I was young, people asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up. I'm sure you have had the same experience. "My name is Sayumi, I am 4 years old, and when I grow up, I want to be a... doctor!" All the way through my school life so far, my teachers have said the same thing. "Have a dream, and work hard. If you try hard enough, you can do anything." This thought has kept me going, even though my dream has changed... But today I want you to imagine that suddenly, you no longer had a chance to achieve your dream.

　　Have you ever heard of "young carers?" It means people under the age of 18 years old who must take care of their parents, grandparents or younger brothers and sisters. Sounds fine, right? We love our family, so if they need our help, we look after them. But what if this care work is something that you have no choice about. How would that feel?

　　I recently watched a documentary about young carers and how hard it was for them to look after family members. It was really shocking. It said that nearly six percent of junior high students are young carers. Six percent? That might not sound much - but that means maybe three students in my class have to look after a family member every day - sometimes for as long as three hours a-day.

　　Why is this a problem now? Japan has changed. Compared to just 20 years ago, there are more single parent families, families where both parents work, and just not as many members in each family. This means that more and more people, just like me and you, have to look after their loved-ones at home.

　　So what happens to young carers? Here are some examples from what I found. They are 10 percent more likely to be absent from school, they often fall asleep in class because they are so tired, they may have to miss school trips and events, and are likely to get into trouble for not finishing homework. And what's worse, they hesitate to tell their problems to teachers because they are private, family matters. Ultimately this leads to mental health problems and bad results in school. And dreams for the future? Well, they are forgotten and lost.

　　Their lives are so different from mine. I just imagine that if I were one of them, I couldn't study hard enough to get into university. Honestly, I don't know exactly what I want to be in the future, but I do know that I want to study hard and have the chance to decide for myself.

　　So, how can we make life better for young carers? I believe that the whole society needs to respond to this problem. The main thing is that young carers need someone to help them. I want more people to know about their problems. This will be the first step to finding some solutions. I think there should be more school counselors and a better atmosphere of understanding at school. Then, young carers will be able to tell the truth about their problems, and get the support they need.

　　We young people have a right to choose what we want to do, to work towards it and try to achieve it. No one should have to choose between trying their best at school and looking after someone they love. Whatever our family situation is, we should be supported and cared for at home, while we help our loved ones. But we should also all be given the chance to decide on our own futures.

(6th Prize of the 73rd Contest, 2021)

If Not Today, Then When?

Sekine Risa

Iai Girls' Middle School

　　"When things get back to normal, let's meet again someday." "Maybe someday I will be a good daughter, so wait for a while." Has anyone here said this kind of thing? Probably you have many things you want to do or should do, but you haven't done yet. Today, I'd like to share my story about my "someday."

　　In 2019, on the day I graduated from elementary school, my homeroom teacher gave a letter to each student. To tell the truth, I didn't really like him then. I never laughed in the classroom. I didn't enjoy my school life at all. I didn't talk to the teacher, so I had thought he wouldn't know much about me. However, the letter said this: "I know you try hard in everything. You are strong and kind hearted. You are always fair to everyone. I respect you as a person. Oh, I forgot one thing. You are actually a very interesting person. I wish I could see the other side of you. I hope you will be yourself and shine at junior high school." He knew me very well. I should have enjoyed talking frankly with him. I made up my mind to see him again someday.

　　At the end of the year 2020, I got some shocking news. The teacher had died. When I heard that, I remembered his letter. I read it again. I realized I wouldn't be able to show my interesting side to him. That made me depressed. I had imagined myself laughing with him at a class reunion ten years later. I had thought he would surely be glad to see my future self. But I realized these futures would never come. "Someday" was no more than my own ideal.

　　Now we are living in 2021. Are you satisfied with yourself now? The people around you can only see what you are showing them now. If you are hiding anything inside of you, reveal it. If you have a part of your character that you want people to know in the future, show it right now. "Someday" will never come. I'm sure your true character will soon make your life more enjoyable. So, believe in yourself first, and show what you want to be. Then your friends will find you cool. You can shine as you are. If your "someday" turns into "today", it will surely change your future. It was great for me that I met him in my life. At long last, I'm ready to write back to my teacher, Mr. Nishino.

　　Sensei, thank you for the letter. I'm sorry for not replying to you for such a long time. But look at me now. Am I shining so brightly that you can see me from far away? I have friends coming to me during every single break between classes, and I enjoy chatting with them. I love my school life. I always laugh from the bottom of my heart. This is my true self. I would like people to know me just the way I am; not only the people around me now but also the people I will meet in the future.

　　Sensei, thank you very much for telling me about the most important thing in my life. Please keep watching over me.

(7th Prize of the 73rd Contest, 2021)

おおいわ・ひでき

東進ハイスクール・東進衛星予備校英語科講師。高校生だけでなく、中学生から社会人までの講座を担当。大学入試にとどまらない英語指導に定評がある。著書は「大岩のいちばんはじめの英文法【超基礎文法編】」など40冊以上。

【主催】読売新聞社、日本学生協会基金

【後援】外務省、文部科学省、都道府県教育委員会ほか

【特別協賛】東進ハイスクール・東進衛星予備校

【協賛】日本テレビ放送網、ぺんてる、ワールド・ファミリーほか