Prejudice against dual nationality is a stance against value pluralism. Yet, value pluralism is an essential need for the long-term stability of an open democratic society.
28
Jun
2020
U.S.-Japan relations
28
Jun
2020
5 Reasons for Dual Nationality: Reason #4
Pressuring or forcing dual nationals to renounce one of their citizenships communicates that love of country must equate to love of the country’s government – as opposed to communicating government’s duty to earn the love of its citizens.
27
Jun
2020
5 Reasons for Dual Nationality: Reason #3
Pressuring or forcing dual nationals to renounce one of their citizenships is analogous to creating a brick-less Berlin Wall. It locks in the citizen by making defection more difficult such that poor governance need not result in loss of subjects.
27
Jun
2020
5 Reasons for Dual Nationality: Reason #2
For as long as man has kept written history, leaders have recognized that dual nationality is a tool to keep the peace. Emperors and kings frequently married the offspring of rulers from other nations thereby creating a dual national in their spouse while encouraging peace and cooperation between the nations.
27
Jun
2020
5 Reasons for Dual Nationality: Reason #1
The origins of prejudice against dual nationality stem from war and the desire for certainty regarding who can be trusted when lives are at stake. If that is true, there seems to be little if any need for such prejudice in times of peace. Keeping that prejudice in play during times of peace communicates a perceived need for preparedness in case of future war. The deep symbiotic relationship between the U.S. and Japan has, long since, outgrown the need for such preparedness. So, keeping it in play is dishonorable.
27
May
2020
Helping the Homeless and Urban Poor
What a day to be grateful for if you have your health, family and a means to financially support yourself and loved ones. Not everyone is so fortunate. It is a blessing to be able to share one’s wealth and knowledge to alleviate in some way the pain and suffering of others. The spirit of volunteerism is also very American and alive and well. It is a spirit I treasure. I created this business proposal long before the COVID-19 outbreak precisely to see how I could assist the urban homeless in Japan. Why? The homeless aren’t someone else’s problem. They are us. They are human. It is never too late to reaffirm our common humanity through kindness and acts of charity. I hope one day some brave soul will take this business proposal and implement it. It’s free. One less homeless person on the streets is a legacy we can all be proud of – whether Japanese or American or both. Have a great week and know that your health ultimately rests on the health and well-being of others. One human family.
https://kenreiman.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Japan-Urban-Homeless-Project.pdf
07
Mar
2020
Wonderful Discussion in San Francisco on U.S.-Japan Future: Multiculturalism is the Way Forward!
San Francisco at the Pier Water Front. Thanks for hosting me University of San Francisco and Japan Society of Northern California to discuss the impact of Japan’s first diplomatic mission to the U.S.!!
17
Jan
2020
The Year’s First Dream – What Did You Dream About?
In Japan, it is believed that the first dream of the New Year is important because it tells you what the year holds for you. What did you dream about? Here’s a haiku poem by Itō Shōu in English and Japanese below.
The year’s first dream –
a secret I spoke to no one,
smiling to myself. ― Itō Shōu (1859-1943)
初夢や
秘めて語らず
一人笑む ―伊藤松宇
The Japanese poet Itō Shōu was a poet of the Meiji era (1868-1926). He was a contemporary of another great Haiku poet Masaoka Shiki. Both wrote during a time when Japan opened its doors to the world and quickly learned about Western culture and technology.
On a journey, I’d have
as my companion on the road,
a butterfly. ―Masaoka Shiki (1867-1902)
道づれは
胡蝶をたのむ
旅路かな ―正岡子規
16
Oct
2019
People Need a Voice and a Choice Let Yours Be Heard!
“Sometimes the person who has not been able to speak or be heard has the most powerful message to deliver.” Quote by Ken Reiman
Thanks to everyone who purchased my book and allowed me to share my experience with others. I hope it will inspire others to share their hopes and dreams too!
06
Oct
2019
Dreams Do Come True!
読者の皆様へ、楽しんで下さい。10月15日発売中！！
