Kelsey Lechner (Tochigi, 2015-2017)

Human trafficking is a global problem, and it is usually incredibly difficult to tackle due to its underground nature. It is often termed “slavery” or “modern slavery” and may include forced labor, sexual exploitation, servitude, and even organ removal. This crime impacts virtually every country in the world, including Japan and the United States. While both countries have some policies in place to prevent and prosecute human trafficking crimes and protect victims, these policies and their implementation could be greatly strengthened. Furthermore, increased cooperation between Japan and the United States on the international stage could help tackle the problem in the Asian region more effectively.

JETs on Japan: May, 2024

USJETAA invites all JETAA chapters and/or sub-chapters in the US to apply for a small grant (typically ranging from $1,500 to $3,500) to support an innovative event or program that furthers US-Japan relations at the grassroots level. We are currently accepting applications on a rolling basis through October 1, 2024.

In mid-April, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and First Lady Yuko Kishida made an official visit to Washington, DC. The JET alumni community had two unique opportunities to experience their state visit.

Thinking about life after JET? Or maybe you are there already? We will be talking about Japanese companies in the US and opportunities with them for JET alumni. Learn what regions, industries, and roles are a good fit for JETs, and why it’s not just translation and teaching. Learn about the job hunt process and how to successfully navigate it while leveraging your JET experience to the fullest.

In May, we will read the short piece 日食記 (Account of the Eclipse) by physicist and essayist Nakaya Ukichiro.

Current JET Amaris Lopez (Ehime, 2022-present) has used the USJETAA microgrant to spark curiosity and multicultural learning through the creation of an English library.

Abstract submissions for the 2024-2025 JETs on Japan publication series is open until June 10th. ⁠

In this Senpai Spotlight, Becca Guttentag (Oita, 2014-2018), Localization Producer at Riot Games, explains what it takes to get started the in game localization industry.