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Koko Ga Hen Da Yo Nihonjin is a program on TBS every Wednesday at 10 P.M. The host of the show is Beat Takeshi (renowned movie director Takeshi Kitano) and the panel consists of political commentator Terry Ito, famous model Rikako and 100 foreigners residing in Japan. I am one of the Americans on the show, but the panel consists of people from around the world (the show is conducted in Japanese). We discuss a variety of topics of relevance to Japanese culture and society, such as discrimination, education and the family. We have also tackled issues of international concern, such as the war in Afghanistan and tensions within Asia. The program is known as a variety show, but a closer look reveals much more than simply comedy. The discussions are often heated and it is not surpising that when topics like religion and war come up, that there is simply no way of reaching any kind of consensus or common ground. However, hearing such a wide range of opinions is an educational experience and I have been swayed in my opinion on more than a couple of occasions. I am proud to be a part of this show, because I am consistintly impressed with the effort that these foreigners have made to have a life in Japan. Encountering discrimination, difficulties with culture and language, we all share a common link. We have persisted and succeeded. I hope that this show can offer some strength to other foreigners in Japan who struggle like we have. After all, it's worth it. We wouldn't be here if we didn't love Japan. |
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