A candlelight vigil will be held on Monday, March 28, to demonstrate solidarity with the people of Japan and to imagine a world free of nuclear disasters.
“As all variety of support continues to flow between our two countries, we want to take a minute and simply let the Japanese people know that our thoughts and best wishes are with them during this time,” says Angela Rola, director of the Asian American Cultural Center and a coordinator of the University’s relief efforts.
Those interested in participating in vigil should meet at the International Center in Room 307 of the Student Union, between 6:45 and 7 p.m. Monday. The procession will begin at sunset, which – because of the time difference between the two countries – will be sunrise in Japan. Candles will be distributed at the International Center and lit once the procession leaves the Student Union. The procession will loop the inner campus and return to the International Center for a reception. UConn’s Taiko drummers will participate in the event.
The Asian American Cultural Center, Dining Services, the Department of International Services and Programs, the Office of Student Services and Advocacy, the Division of Student Affairs/Community Outreach, and the Japanese Student Association are sponsoring the vigil.
Contact Bob Chudy in the Department of International Services and Programs office if you have any questions. For information on other events and activities taking place at UConn and links to a number of charitable sites, go to the Student Activities website.
Nationally, the Institute of International Education has created an emergency assistance fund for Japanese students studying in the United States who have experienced financial hardship as a result of the earthquake and tsunami. Grants of up to $5,000 will be given to eligible students from the hardest-hit areas of the country, including the Miyagi, Fukushima, and Iwate prefectures. Colleges are asked to submit nominations to the institute, with the first deadline on April 4. Students may not apply directly. The fund is also being supported by the Freeman Foundation.
