Japan Quake: Reactions In Japan

In the days since the disaster, Japan’s anime community has also begun to make their statements on the situation. In the music industry, TM Revolution announced that all proceeds from his March 30 concert will be donated to charity, and the event will be streamed for free online as a benefit. Yoko Kanno posted her self-produced song Kimi de Ite Buji de Ite to YouTube, as a dedication to those affected by the disaster:

In the anime and manga world, both Haruhi illustrator Noizi Ito and Vagabond creator Takehiko Inoue recently posted their own form of concern for those affected in the quake. Ito posted an illustration of Haruhi in deep prayer to Twitter, accompanied by a message that the Brigade Leader is offering her prayers, as well. Inoue, on the other hand, posted a series of 27 small illustrations to his Twitter feed. The portraits were a continuation of Inoue’s “Smile” series, which were posted on the micro-blogging service between December 22, 2010 and February 22, 2011. Inoue was compelled to draw the new pieces in mere hours.

In the aftermath of a major disaster, it’s encouraging to see these signs of support from the community. While it will take time to fully recover from this event, the perseverence of the Japanese people will be vital. There’s not much more that I really can say about this situation outside of “do not give up, people of Japan.” The thoughts and hopes of many are with those who have been affected by the disaster.