Tireless Member of Toronto's Japanese Community Decorated for His Work
Toronto resident and former President of the New Japanese Canadian Association, Yoshihisa Nagaishi, was conferred the prestigious Order of the Rising Sun, Silver Rays, at a special ceremony at the Official Residence of the Consul-General of Japan on Sept. 1.
Acting Consul-General Nobuaki Yamamoto reads
the text of the commendation for Mr. and Mrs. Nagaishi.
Mr. Nagaishi has served as an executive of the NJCA for 18 years, supporting its activities and promoting its exchange with other Japanese Canadian organizations. He has worked tirelessly to raise the stature of new immigrants from Japan, and at the same time helped them maintain their Japanese heritage.
He has also served on the boards of various Japanese Canadian organizations, including those of: the Nikka Gakuen, a Japanese language school; the Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre; and the Momiji Health Care Centre, a seniors residence with a special focus on Japanese culture.
Last year, Mr. Yoichi Saegusa, another former President of the NJCA was conferred the same decoration, making this the second year in a row in which a representative of the Association has received such an honour.
Wearing the decoration on his chest.
In response to receiving his decoration, Mr. Nagaishi said that he felt extremely honoured to receive the Order of the Rising Sun, Silver Rays. Having been born and raised in Kobe, he said, moving to Canada was a complete chance of scenery, but he was able to receive support from many people. He said his journey had not always been easy, but he feels proud of having his accomplishments recognized. He also said receiving this decoration reinforced in his mind the ties he still maintained with Japan.
Patricia Stuart, who has been a friend to Mr. Nagaishi for almost 40 years, touched upon the time he and his wife still lived in Kobe as well as their move to Toronto in her own remarks. Ms. Stuart recognized Mr. Nagaishi’s many activities and accomplishments, and extended to him her heartfelt congratulations.
Guests in attendance and the media.
About 40 people were in attendance, including representatives from the NJCA, the JCCC as well as local Japanese Canadian media. Guests continued to extend their best wishes to Mr. Nagaishi and his wife until the conclusion of the evening.