Students and housewives of downtown Kyoto gathered on the 7th at Bukkouji Temple in Shimogyo to encourage thinking about our eating's impact on the value of life and peace. The multicolored gathering was celebrated by the selling of foods that don't use meat, band performances.
The function was planned for by Akiko Iwasa, owner of a purely-vegetarian restaurant in western Kyoto and 15 youths (also vegetarian.) In this our age of plentiful food, the aim of the function was to encourage more consideration of what we put into our mouths. Preparations began in June to get approval for the event.
The same day, treats such as brown rice korokke and tofu snacks, and others that do not require animal products lined the way in consession stands. In addition, a petition to put a stop to animal experimentation, a discussion panel on world starvation and environmental problems by 6 NPOs, and music centered around themes of peace were abundant.
Ms. Iwasa stated, "malnutrition and obesity in developed countries caused by agricultural chemicals and starvation in developing countries demonstrate a flaw in the way we feed ourselves. Whether you are vegetarian or not, please enjoy yourself. Please have a good time while getting a good nutritional education."
Admission for the 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. event was free-of-charge.
FESTIVAL 2003 was opened on May 24th (Sat.) at 2:30 p.m. at Osaka International Convention Center.
At the general assembly, JPVS Representative Mitsuru Kakimoto gave a greeting, presented the agenda, announced the organization's activites, and presented statistical information on JPVS' finances.
According to the plan, the following year will mark the 10th year for the organization, a year to commemorate. In regards to this, specifics for Vegetarian Week were fixed, and educational activites, a commendation for the memorial 10th year, a special memorial lecture, and a commemorative party were brought up to the general assembly. All present agreed unanimously to the proposal.
After the assembly, in regards to the 10th commemorative year of the organization, 5 were given special commendation for their efforts covering the last ten years since the organization's founding.
At 3:40 p.m., FESTIVAL 2003's first lecture commenced. The lecturer was Yomiuri Advertising Company Tokyo Main Office's Executive Director Isao Minami spoke in easily-understable terms with a presentation about the latest data.
Part 2 was a French-themed food party. Rihga Royal Hotel's Head Chef satisfied all participantees with a grand menu of prime dishes from his hotel's culinary showcase. During the party, donations to the United Nation's World Hunger Day were raised in order to stop hunger in the world. Then, a letter of appreciation was given at a presentation ceremony.
Three of those who were recognized in the 10-year commemoration (the others (2) were not present due to physical ailments) spoke, Vegetarian Week festivites were explained, and the new councellor's speech followed.