まぜこぜの社会を目指して Using the theatrical arts to create a more diverse society | Chizuru Azuma | TEDxKyoto

Summary

This speech emphasizes the importance of building a diverse society, drawing parallels to the careful preparation of 'Japanese mixed rice' to illustrate how different elements can come together harmoniously. The speaker shares personal experiences of volunteering, the challenges faced by marginalized communities, and lessons learned from the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake. They advocate for a 'mazekoze' society that values inclusivity and mutual support, where everyone, regardless of their background or condition, can contribute and feel valued. The speaker calls for a collective aspiration toward a more empathetic and interconnected world, where diversity is celebrated, and relationships are strengthened through shared care.

Takeaways

• 😀 The concept of a diverse society is compared to a Japanese dish, 'Japanese mixed rice', where individual ingredients contribute to a harmonious whole.
• 😀 In a diverse society, simply living together isn't enough; understanding and embracing each person's unique traits is key to building a comfortable society.
• 😀 The term 'diversity' in Japan is often communicated through English words like 'diversity', 'inclusion', and 'normalization', which may feel distant or irrelevant to many Japanese people.
• 😀 The speaker emphasizes the importance of volunteer work and how it led to personal growth, motivated by a desire to create a society that supports those in need.
• 😀 A significant moment in the speaker's journey was witnessing the shortcomings of shelters during the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, which excluded vulnerable groups like people with disabilities, the elderly, and transgender individuals.
• 😀 The organization the speaker is part of strives to protect human rights and build a society where everyone is appreciated and has the opportunity to pursue happiness.
• 😀 A seamless connection between different institutions (schools, businesses, and political groups) is key to building a more inclusive society, exemplified by the speaker’s project 'Get in touch'.
• 😀 The speaker’s organization, 'Mazekoze', promotes inclusivity through art, music, and theater, involving people from diverse backgrounds, including those with disabilities, LGBTQ+ identities, and other marginalized groups.
• 😀 A key project of 'Mazekoze' is the theatrical group, where people from various professions and backgrounds collaborate to create art that challenges societal norms and encourages inclusivity.
• 😀 The importance of thoughtful communication and adaptation in a diverse environment is highlighted, including learning from mistakes and ensuring that everyone feels heard and respected, regardless of differences.
• 😀 The speaker believes that society should not just expect individuals to contribute value but should create an environment where all people can flourish, emphasizing the importance of public health care as a means to ensure happiness for all.

Q & A

What is the connection between Japanese mixed rice and a diverse society, as mentioned in the script?

The speaker uses the metaphor of Japanese mixed rice to describe a diverse society. Just as the careful preparation of ingredients in mixed rice enhances the dish, acknowledging and appreciating the unique characteristics of individuals in society can create a harmonious and comfortable environment for everyone.

How does the speaker describe their experience with volunteer work?

The speaker reflects on their decision to start volunteering at the age of 32, driven by a desire to not regret not helping others. Over the past 30 years, they have been involved in a variety of volunteer projects, including bone marrow banks, peace villages, and initiatives for the disabled.

What was the significance of the Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami for the speaker's perspective on society?

The Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami highlighted the disparities within society, as people with disabilities or other vulnerabilities were often left out of the relief efforts. This experience reinforced the speaker's belief in the importance of inclusivity and human rights in a diverse society.

What is the purpose of the 'Get in touch' initiative?

The 'Get in touch' initiative aims to connect various societal sectors, such as schools, businesses, families, and political groups, to create a more cohesive and supportive network. The goal is to foster communication and cooperation across different communities.

What role does entertainment play in fostering a diverse society, according to the speaker?

The speaker believes entertainment, such as art, music, movies, and theater, can create new moments, spaces, and human connections. These cultural expressions allow people to see and understand diversity, helping to break down barriers and promote acceptance.

How does the Mazekoze Theatrical Group represent diversity?

The Mazekoze Theatrical Group is a collective of professional entertainers, including individuals with disabilities or from marginalized communities, such as those with Down syndrome, autism, and transgender people. Their performances aim to showcase the talents of people from diverse backgrounds and challenge societal norms.

What personal experience does the speaker share about working with disabled individuals in the arts?

The speaker shares a story about Kazuyo Morita, a dancer with a prosthetic leg, who requested that the videographer capture her prosthetic leg being removed during a dance. The videographer initially hesitated but later appreciated the uniqueness and beauty of the dancer, demonstrating how learning and understanding can reshape perspectives on disability.

What is the speaker's stance on the term 'little person' and its implications?

The speaker acknowledges that the term 'little person' is considered discriminatory and should be replaced with more respectful language, like 'artists of short stature.' They emphasize the importance of listening to and respecting the preferences of individuals from marginalized groups to foster an inclusive environment.

How does the speaker define 'normal' in the context of diversity?

The speaker challenges the concept of 'normal,' encouraging society to question what it means. They suggest that 'normal' is subjective and that embracing diversity allows individuals to explore new ways of thinking and living together, thus creating a more inclusive and compassionate society.

What is the speaker's ultimate vision for society?

The speaker envisions a society that embraces diversity and human rights, where people from all backgrounds can coexist and support one another. They advocate for a society where everyone, regardless of their differences, is valued and has the opportunity to pursue happiness, with an emphasis on compassion, understanding, and inclusion.