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A resolution recognizing the 78th Japan-America Student Conference hosted in Nashville in August 2026.
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WHEREAS, the Japan-America Student Conference was founded in 1934 by four Japanese students with a goal to promote mutual understanding and rebuild trust between Japan and the United States following the Manchurian Incident in 1931. Today, the Japan-America Student Conference is the oldest international student exchange program; and
WHEREAS, the conference alternates between the U.S. and Japan and brings together students from both countries for approximately three weeks for travel across three regions; and
WHEREAS, prominent figures such as former Japanese Prime Minister Kiichi Miyazawa and former U.S. Secretary of State Henry Kissinger are alumni of the conference; and
WHEREAS, the Japan-America Student Conference distinguishes itself from other student exchange programs as it is completely student-led and organized; and
WHEREAS, Nashville last hosted the conference in 1992, the return to Nashville demonstrates the strong bond and camaraderie between Nashville and Japan; and
WHEREAS, this year, the conference will travel to San Francisco, Nashville, and Washington D.C. Nashville will host the conference between August 9 and 15, 2026. The conference’s theme in Nashville will be “Hearing Local Voices for a Collective Future;” and
WHEREAS, in Nashville the conference will explore Nashville’s music industry, the rich history of the Civil Rights Movement, Nashville and Japan’s business ties, the ways that sports can unite people, Nashville’s local government, and how Tennessee is connected to nuclear energy; and
WHEREAS, it is fitting and proper that the Metropolitan Council honor the 78th Japan-American Student Conference as it visits Nashville, for its work towards mutual understanding and international exchange.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:
Section 1. That the Metropolitan Council hereby goes on record as recognizing the 78th Japan-American Student Conference as a lasting demonstration of the benefits of cultural exchange and leadership development.
Section 2. That this Resolution shall take effect from and after its adoption, the welfare of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County requiring it.