Institutional intolerance prevails in Osaka, undermining democracy
(From The Japan Times April 2 issue)

In June 2011, Osaka Prefecture became the first prefecture to enact a bylaw to make it obligatory for teachers at prefectural schools to stand up and sing the national anthem, Kimigayo, at school ceremonies, although it did not provide for punishment. Osaka Ishin-no Kai (Osaka reform association), a local party led by then Gov. Toru Hashimoto, took the initiative in pushing through the legislation. Mr. Hashimoto, now the mayor of Osaka, strongly insists that public school teachers should stand up and sing Kimigayo at school ceremonies.

On Feb. 28, the Osaka city assembly passed a similar bylaw, applying to city school teachers with the support of Osaka Ishin-no Kai, the Liberal Democratic Party and Komeito.

Mr. Hashimoto denounced teachers who refuse to sing Kimigayo, saying that their refusal to follow rules is “an act of blaspheming against democracy.” But he should understand that for some teachers, singing Kimigayo, which is associated by some people with Japan’s past militarism, is a matter of conscience. Forcing them to sing the anthem would run counter to the principle of democracy. He also should realize that some teachers are repulsed by the local governments’ attempt to control their behavior through legislation.

On March 23, the Osaka prefectural assembly enacted three education-related bylaws. The governor will be empowered to set educational goals. A teacher who fails three times to follow the same order, such as standing up and singing Kimigayo, will face possible dismissal.

These prefectural and city bylaws may fan the flame of intolerance toward people with a minority opinion, thus undermining the basis of democracy, as well as give rise to obedience for appearance sake among teachers. Patriotism — showing devotion to one’s nation — can take many forms and all must come from the heart to have any real meaning.

日本語の抄訳はウィークリ4月14日号のP18に掲載されています。