News
Daikons in the Rough: Making Friends in Japan
Anthony Palmer reflects on the ups and downs of trying to make freinds in a foreign culture. Check it out in our Writer's section!
On Stereotypes and Trust
Anthony Palmer takes a look at stereotypes in Japan on both sides of the looking glass. Read about his thoughts on the subject in our Writer's section!
Need to promote an event?
Looking for some more exposure for your cultural event? You can now submit your event for listing on our events page!
Calling all writers!
Got something to say? JAFA wants to hear from you! We're looking for articles on promoting cross-cultural communication for publication on JAFA. See our submissions page for details!
Join JAFA!
If you are interested in participating in some of our upcoming events, please go to our Sign-Up Page.
Kansai & Kanto Events
For anyone living in the Kanto or Kansai areas, check out our News & Events page for a listing of some upcoming activities, parties and events.
Questions about JAFA? You've come to the right place!
- Is JAFA a political group?
- No. Yet because the organizers are African Americans many people mistakenly assume that we are a civil rights group. We are not.
- Does JAFA have a political agenda of any kind?
- Well, yes. To make more friends!
- In Prof. John. G. Russel's book, Nihon-jin no kokujin-kan: Mondai ha Chibikuro Sambo dakedeha nai, he mentioned that JAFA did participate in some political actions. Is this true?
- Yes - the protest involving Justice Minister Kajiyama was the only time that JAFA felt it necessary and appropriate to take a political stand. This was due to the severity of the comments that were issued against African-Americans. Since that time, JAFA has returned to almost exclusively being a friendship and cultural exchange group.
- If I attend an event, is somebody going to ask me to join something or make a donation?
- No. We are mainly interesting in getting people together so that they can meet each other. Other times, we sponsor guest speakers to give lectures to Japanese young people about black culture. Moreover, our member ship target is largely Japanese.
- Are non blacks welcome to the events?
- Yes. The events are typically multicultural in nature which means people from all nationalities are enthusiastically welcome to attend as our photo gallery will attest.
- Will people be wearing hip hop gear including hats and dark glasses?
- No. Our guests are typically young professionals; teachers, bankers, lawyers, engineers, marketing and office personnel who come in business attire or dress casual.
- Can I expect to meet attractive Japanese girls or guys?
- Yes. But please note that JAFA is not a dating club; therefore those coming to JAFA events for the sole purpose of finding a boyfriend or girlfriend is respectfully asked not to attend.