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.

Savannah Kansai Flea Market ACTV Black Tokyo

JAFA 25th Anniversary Celebration

One of Japan's most storied friendship associations is marking a historic milestone, hosting a celebration aimed at reviving interest in the cultural diversity of the nation's international community. All nationalities enthusiastically welcomed!

Moving Forward (in Tokyo)

R.S.V.P. By Thursday, November 30, 2006

J.A.F.A., The Japan African-American Friendship Association, announces its program for the upcoming JAFA 25th Anniversary 'Soul Food' Dinner & Cultural Celebration!

J.A.F.A. Tokyo, will hold their celebration on Sunday Dec. 3rd at The Baron bar & grill in Roppongi. The event will be from 2:00pm until 8:00pm. \5000 at door, \4,500 with RSVP & Students \3000.

Prior to the 9 course 'Soul Food' dinner buffet, including catfish/collard greens/cornbread & blackeyed peas, will be cultural workshops by JAFA members. Topics include; Admission Applications for U.S Grad Schools / Guide for Entreprenuers in Japan / Afro-American Art, Harlem Renaissance & Hip Hop 101.

President, Darrell Gartrell will introduce Keynote Speaker and former president Malcolm Adams. Former president, Kyle Sexton is providing the cake for desert.

Entertainment begins with 'Sapience', a Beatbox performance by 4 talented students from Temple Univ. Gospel vocals by Maxayn Lewis and dance music provided by DJ Tone. Space & equipment is available for a Jam Session too!

JAFA's mandate of promoting understanding & fellowship is emphasized by goals of recruiting new energy to revitalize and attract social & business friendships.

Michael Williams and the planning committee invite all members, past & present, to encourage their friends and families to attend and support the festivities. 25 years is a substantial achievement but just a beginning for African Americans in Japan.

All of our stateside & relocated members and friends are encouraged to email video messages to be viewed during the celebration. Quicktime/Wmv./Avi./Mpeg. formats. We want to hear from you!

Event program

1:30
Doors open
2:00
Workshops
  1. Presenter; Robert Clyne,Phd. "Preparing For Grad School Admission" How to identify and apply to elite graduate programs in the U.S. Developed over the last 4 years, for Japanese college students. Subjects include; Creating competitive admissions applications/ Writing compelling essays/ Interview & test preparation strategies/ Credible extra- curricular activities.
  2. Presenter; Darrell Gartrell "The Beginning Entrepreneur" The basic "how to" start up your or expand your business in Japan. Techniques used in all types of business models. Business registration & obtaining financing from Japanese banks begin subjects including; Setting Up/ Marketing/ Hiring Staff/ Administration/ Client types/ Pricing/ Legal Issues.
2:45
Workshops
  1. Presenter; Michael Williams "Afro-American Art, The Harlem Renaissance" Little known & documented African American historical facts. Dispelling urban legends and myths about Afro-American cultural significance in the U.S. & Japan.
  2. Presenter; DJ Tone " Hip Hop 101- The Art of Communication" Wakai/Zulu Nation Japan's take on the message in the music.
3:40
Welcome & Introduction of Keynote Speaker, JAFA President Darrell Gartrell
3:45
Keynote Speech, "Our Past, Our Future" Presented by Malcolm Adams
4:15
Soul Food Dinner [9 course buffet] , MC
5:30
25th Anniversary Cake, Presentation by Kyle Sexton
5:45
Beat Box performance, Presented by 'Sapience'
6:00
Ol'School to Hip Hop Dance Party, featuring DJ Tone
7:00
Gospel Vocalization, Presented by Maxayn Lewis
7:15
Party Time, DJ Tone & Jam Session
8:00
Final Thanks, MC

Osaka map

We Are You (in Osaka)

R.S.V.P. By Thursday, November 23, 2006

The Japan African-American Friendship Association will mark its 25th Anniversary with a dinner program, Sunday Nov 26, at Savannah Bar and Grill in Shinsaibashi.

Seating is limited to 70 people. Non-ticket holders may be subject to standing room only. Price of admission includes a dinner plate and 1 (alcoholic) beverage, coffee or tea.

事前予約は11月23日(木)までにお願いします。 着席は70席迄可能となっております。チケットをお持ちでない方は立席参加となることがございます。参加費はディナープレートと1ドリンク(アルコール)、コーヒー又は紅茶が含まれています。

  • Date: Sunday, Nov. 26, 2006
  • Time: 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
  • Doors open: 6:30 p.m.
  • Location:
    Savannah Bar and Grill
    B1, Nippo Smile Step Bldg.
    Nishi-Shinsaibashi 2-10-32 Chuo-Ku, Osaka
  • Telephone: 06-6211-6288
  • Entrance: ¥3,000
  • Program: Dinner Course, Special Presentations, Entertainment
  • Dress code: Dress casual or business attire

Event Program

  • 6:30 - 7:00 Seating and Mingling; Snacks, drinks will be served.
  • 社交、挨拶等 (スナックとドリンクをご用意しています)

  • 7:00 - 7:05 Event start. Opening Comments
  • イベント開始、開会コメント

  • 7:05 - 7:20 History of Soul Food presentation - Dawn Arceneaux
  • プレゼンテーション「ソウルフードの歴史」ー ダウン アーセヌー

  • 7:20 - 7:20 Dinner Served
  • ディナー開始

  • 7:20 - 7:40 History of Jazz - Presentation, dialogue, CD music - Duane Levi
  • CD等を使ったプレゼンテーション、対話あり「ジャズの歴史」                        ー デュアン レヴィ

  • 7:45 - 8:00 Guest can take the podium and introduce themselves and their business
    for 60 seconds
  • 参加者による演壇をつかっての自己紹介や会社紹介など(各自60秒)

  • 8:00 - 8:05 "Passing of Peace", Meet and Greet Activity.
  • 『パッシング オブ ピース」 互いの自己紹介等

  • 8:05 - 8:10 Group singing event.
  • グループによる歌のイベント

  • 8:10 - 8:15 Closing comments
  • 閉会のことば

  • 8:15 - 9:00 End Event
  • イベント終了