リトアニアのひと時と杉原千畝氏への讃え

昨日はリトアニア大使館主催の「リトアニアのひと時」の「杉原の日」に参加し、杉原千畝氏について学び、両国を結ぶ歴史を学びました。

第二次世界大戦の中で、杉原千畝氏は日本の外交官として人道的な行為を果たしました。彼がリトアニアで発行したビザは多くのユダヤ人を救い、その勇敢な行為はリトアニアと日本の結びつきの象徴となっています。

ドキュメンタリー映画「命のビザ 勇気のバトン」の上映は、新たに制作された映画で、命を守るために多くの人々が命がけで協力した様子が描かれており、感動の涙が止まりませんでした。これがフィクションではなく実話であることに考えさせられ、またその後何十年もの間、生き残った人々が杉原千畝氏の功績を伝えるために言葉にしてきたことに感銘を受けました。

さらに、稲葉千晴先生（名城大学）は、杉原千畝氏の功績を調査し、真実に迫るためにさまざまな角度から研究され、若い世代に受け継がれるべきことを強調しました。

西川明徳さん（敦賀ムゼウム）は、敦賀市が人道の港であることを紹介し、ポーランド孤児やユダヤ難民が敦賀に上陸した歴史を紹介しました。

その後、山田和実さん（杉原千畝記念館）は、杉原千畝氏が生まれた岐阜県での功績を紹介し、彼の精神を讃えました。

A. クンピス先生（ヴィータウタス・マグヌス大学）は、リトアニアでの「SUGIHARAウィーク」について語り、勇気ある人々が賞にノミネートされていることを紹介しました。

最後に、80年前の命のビザに触れ、外務省外交史料館が杉原千畝氏をたたえるプレートを設置し、名誉を回復したことを挙げました。この日は、同じ人間としての結びつきと平和への願いを強く感じさせられる日でした。

また、昨年にリトアニア大使館からの親切な歩み寄りにより、大使館と協力して子ども食堂（現在は学びのフェア）を開催する機会が生まれました。この場を通じてお礼を申し上げることができ、大使に対する感謝の気持ちを伝えることができました。今日の学びに感謝いたします。

"A Moment with Lithuania and Tribute to Chiune Sugihara"

Yesterday, I participated in the "A Moment with Lithuania" event organized by the Embassy of Lithuania, which coincided with "Chiune Sugihara Day." During the event, I had the opportunity to learn about Chiune Sugihara and the historical ties that bind our two countries.

In the midst of World War II, Chiune Sugihara, as a Japanese diplomat, displayed an extraordinary act of humanitarianism. The visas he issued in Lithuania saved many Jewish lives, and his courageous actions have since become a symbol of the bond between Lithuania and Japan.

The screening of the documentary film "Visas for Life: The Incredible True Story of Chiune Sugihara" was particularly moving. This newly produced film depicted the relentless efforts and courage of many individuals who risked their lives to save others. Watching it brought tears to my eyes, knowing that this was not a work of fiction but a testament to real events. It made me reflect on the decisions made during those trying times and the decades of effort that followed to ensure Chiune Sugihara's deeds were remembered and honored.

Additionally, Professor Chinami Inaba from Meijo University emphasized the importance of researching Chiune Sugihara's achievements from various angles and passing down this legacy to younger generations.

Mr. Akira Nishikawa, representing the Tsuruga Museum, introduced Tsuruga, a humanitarian port in Fukui Prefecture. Tsuruga played a vital role as a hub for European traffic during the Meiji and early Showa eras. In the 1920s, it welcomed Polish orphans, and in the 1940s, it became the landing place for Jewish refugees with Sugihara visas. The stories of the hardships they endured, along with the heartwarming interactions with the local citizens, continue to be shared at the museum, promoting the importance of peace.

Mr. Kazumi Yamada from the Chiune Sugihara Memorial Hall discussed Chiune Sugihara's achievements in Gifu Prefecture, where he was born. A monument was erected, featuring layers of "Visas for Life" to symbolize the reflection of hope in the struggle to preserve lives. The ringing bell of humanity resonates, carrying the message of peace to the world and future generations.

Professor A. Kumpis from Vytautas Magnus University shared insights into "SUGIHARA Week" in Kaunas, Lithuania, where courageous individuals are nominated for awards.

Lastly, it was mentioned that in 2000, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan recognized Chiune Sugihara's humanitarian efforts by installing a plaque at the Diplomatic Archives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, acknowledging his courageous deeds. The Ministry formally recognized Sugihara's contributions and apologized to his surviving family members. It was a touching reminder of our shared humanity and a fervent wish for a true and lasting peace.

Furthermore, I expressed my gratitude to the Embassy of Lithuania for their kind initiative, which led to the collaboration between the embassy and our project in organizing events like the Children's Dining Hall (now transformed into a Learning Fair). I had the opportunity to convey my thanks to the ambassador personally. I am deeply appreciative of the lessons learned today.