#Japan #Osaka, Tokyo #LGBT-Ally #Out Japan #Pride Events

LGBT-Ally Project 2025 Concludes

The LGBT-Ally Project 2025, organized by Out Japan, has successfully concluded its events aimed at fostering collaboration among ally companies. Since its inception in 2017, this initiative has made significant strides in promoting LGBT inclusivity across various sectors in Japan, focusing on strengthening the network of allied businesses.

The project, themed “We are Here!! We are Ally!!”, gathered over 50 representatives from diverse companies in two key locations, Osaka and Tokyo, enabling an enriching exchange of ideas and practices. Attendees shared insights into their own LGBT initiatives, which was met with enthusiasm and open dialogue among participants.

The series of events included participation in notable Pride rallies in Nagoya, Fukuoka, and Osaka, reflecting a solid commitment to visibility and support for the LGBT community. Furthermore, there were engaging seminars, informational exchanges, and a culmination in ending events that celebrated the year’s achievements.

Highlights from LGBT-Ally Project 2025

Events kicked off with the launch of a dedicated project website in late March, which served to inform participants on the various activities ahead. Key events included:

• - Opening Events: Conducted on April 22 and 23 as online sessions, fostering anticipation for the project.
• - In-Person Networking Event: Held on May 9 at Ajinomoto, this was a nexus for informal interactions, allowing companies to discuss their LGBT endeavors.
• - Pride Activities: Active involvement in regional Pride parades (May 17 in Nagoya and June 8 in Tokyo) emphasized solidarity and community engagement.
• - Film Festival: The LGBT-Ally Project Film Festival took place on August 1 and 2, providing a platform for artistic expression and discussion on LGBT themes.
• - Year-End Reflection: The project culminated in online ending events in December where various companies presented their initiatives and learnings, showcasing the year's progress and paving the way for future engagements.

Participating Companies

A commendable array of companies participated in this year's initiative, including major players such as IHI, Asahi Group Holdings, and ANA Holdings. Each company's unique contributions enriched the project, demonstrating a collective commitment to allyship and support for the LGBT community.

Looking to the Future: LGBT-Ally Project 2026

Excitement is already building for the LGBT-Ally Project 2026, with an information session scheduled for January 14, 2026, where further details will be shared. Companies interested in joining this supportive network of allies are encouraged to attend. The session will also coincide with the premiere of Out Japan's first produced film, “Hibi, Hiyori”, which addresses pertinent themes such as SOGI harassment, outing, and the importance of being an ally.

Conclusion

As Out Japan marks its 10th anniversary in July 2025, the ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive environment for the LGBT community is more prominent than ever. The success of the LGBT-Ally Project 2025 serves as a testament to the power of collaboration and dialogue. To view footage from the events, visit the links provided: Tokyo Event Highlights, Osaka Event Highlights, and Ending Event Recap.