The 17th Meguro UNESCO International Support Bazaar
Nov. 21 (sat.), 2009 12:00 - / Lunchroom of Gohongi Elementary School
It was a joyful and fruitful Bazaar. Thank you all for your cooperation. This year, there were three policies at the beginning: to hold a bazaar organized and managed by our association members as usual, to invite outside vendors to run a booth rich in international flavor, and to collect small contributions. After argent discussions, it was decided that the proceeds from the bazaar should be used for Terakoya movement in Afghanistan. Unexpectedly the place was changed from the gym to the lunchroom under the influence of flu, and the start time was moved forward corresponding to the school festival of Gohongi Elementary School. However, some 30 volunteers cooperated with one another, earnestly discussing what was needed, what was lacking, what was the best way for customers, until the opening of the bazaar. Flags of various nations were arranged beautifully from the gate to the lunchroom, which was not included in the original plan either. It was a heartwarming bazaar with a rich international flavor and abundant donated goods as well as others hand made by the members. I can say this bazaar was a success. Just before this event, some people involved in Terakoya movement in Afghanistan came to the National Convention of UNESCO Movement to report on their work. When I told them, “Meguro UNESCO will hold a charity bazaar for you,” they were very pleased and said, “Please come to visit us when the battle is over. We will welcome you sincerely”. I’m convinced that our bazaar will contribute to world peace, which seems far from reality, almost evaporating. Again, I would like to say thanks to all people who cooperated for this event.
-written by Yukio Okusawa and translated by Mami Kawaguchi
Proceeds from the bazaar: 163,825 yen
Total of small contributions: 34,070 yen
