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Barrier-Free Society Symposium in Kanazawa

On September 16, 2023, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism announced the upcoming Barrier-Free Society Symposium to be held in Kanazawa on November 22, 2023, from 12:00 PM to 3:30 PM. This event aims to promote discussions on the current state of barrier-free initiatives and how to further implement them in the community.

Event Details

• - Date and Time: November 22, 2023, from 12:00 PM to 3:30 PM
• - Location: Kanazawa Comprehensive Sports Gymnasium, 3-8-1 Izuminoidecho, Kanazawa City.
• - Format: On-site event (registration required, free entry)
• - Organizers: Kanazawa City, Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, and the Transportation Eco-Logic Mobility Foundation, alongside the Barrier-Free Society Host Town Council.

Agenda Highlights

The symposium will feature several significant segments:

1. Opening Performance: Written performance by calligrapher Shoko Kanazawa.
2. Keynote Speech: Delivered by calligrapher Yasuko Kanazawa, focusing on the theme "Supporting Each Other and Living Together.”
3. Panel Discussion: Topic: "Creating Together, Living Together - Kanazawa and Beyond.” The discussion will be moderated by Professor Atsuro Tsutsumi from Kanazawa University. Panelists include Sayuri Sakai, Chairperson of the Ishikawa Barrier-Free Tour Center, wheelchair basketball player Tetsuya Miyajima, Chiaki Kunieda from Kanazawa Art Workshop, and Kanazawa City Vice Mayor Hiroyuki Yamada.

The symposium aims to share various local initiatives that emerged following the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, emphasizing the importance of building a society where everyone can live comfortably, regardless of their physical abilities.

Registration Details

Participants are encouraged to register online by November 12, 2023. For registration, visit the following link: Event Registration. Please note that the event format may change based on public health guidelines.

Contact Information

For inquiries regarding the event, please contact:

• - Kanazawa City Sports Foundation
• - Phone: 076-247-9018
• - Fax: 076-245-6466

The symposium represents a critical step in advancing discussions around accessibility and inclusivity in urban planning and community development. The outcomes may significantly impact future policies and initiatives to foster a barrier-free environment, ensuring that the legacy of the Tokyo 2020 Games continues to influence and inspire further improvements across Japan.

This event is part of Japan's ongoing efforts to enhance accessibility in public spaces, ensuring that all citizens, including those with disabilities, can participate fully in society. By bringing together various stakeholders, including local government officials, non-profit organizations, and community leaders, the symposium aims to create actionable pathways toward a truly inclusive society.