March 11, 2021 was the 10 year anniversary of the Great East Japan Earthquake when an earthquake of 9.0 magnitude struck just off the coast of Northern Japan in Tohoku, causing a massive tsunami.  Yahoo! Japan, a Japanese internet company, created an event called “3.11” in which they donated 10 yen ($0.091 USD) to those affected for each search of the topic on March 11 in Japanese Standard Time.  The Mililani High School Japanese National Honor Society (JNHS), a club that does service projects or activities relating to Japan, participated in this event and taught club members about the Tohoku disaster and how this event helps those in need.

     “It was very eye-opening to learn that people were still struggling from this a decade later, and I’m sure many members appreciated having the opportunity to help out,” JNHS Vice President Senior Vella Deguzman said.

     “3.11” was created to raise awareness and help for those who still, today, are affected by the tsunami. The raised money goes to disaster relief programs that rebuild homes and provide more opportunity for those who have lost family, property, or jobs.  Other companies and organizations, such as LINE and the Japan Red Cross, share these ideas and donate money in other ways. LINE is a messaging app, and the Japan Red Cross works with the International Red Cross to help in large scale disasters.  

     “Although it has been 10 years since the earthquake and tsunami happened, there are still many people who are struggling. Many had lost their homes, belongings, and even loved ones, so it’s important that we continue to remember this day and show our support to the community,” said Deguzman.

     Deguzman also stated that tsunami awareness is important to learn as it can save lives and teach people to support each other in those types of situations. The club also discussed the effects of the disaster a decade down the line. They talked about showing support and respect to those in the community and the importance of helping others out.

     “In fact, this year is the 75th anniversary of a devastating tsunami that hit my hometown of Hilo. There was another in 1960. Growing up, I had always heard many stories about them, but I don’t hear them too often anymore. I think people should be aware that large tsunamis could reach Hawaii, but even more important is to know what to do when one is coming and to know what the signs are,”  JNHS Advisor Corey Zukeran said.

     By using the morning bulletin and contacting club members through other means, the club was able to reach out to as many people as possible for the 3.11 event.  For information about the club, Corey Zukeran can be reached at [email protected].  To learn more about the Tohoku disaster, visit https://www.jnpoc.ne.jp/en/what-we-do/tohoku-disaster-relief/.  The Yahoo! Japan website is https://www.yahoo.co.jp/.