Foreign Minister’s Commendation

September 24, 2026 — Today, The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan announced the recipients of the Foreign Minister’s Commendation. Among the honorees is Mr. John Tateishi, former Executive Director of the Japanese American Citizens League. Mr. Tateishi is being recognized for his distinguished contributions promoting mutual understanding and friendship between Japan and the United States.
 
Mr. Tateishi, serving as Chair of the JACL National Redress Committee and JACL National Redress Director, devoted himself to realizing the redress movement seeking compensation for the forced incarceration of Japanese Americans during World War II. Through his work on the redress movement and his efforts toward the rectification of racial discrimination, understanding of the Japanese American community and Japan in the United States was deepened, making a significant contribution to the friendship and goodwill between Japan and the United States.
 
The Foreign Minister’s Commendation honors individuals and organizations with particularly outstanding achievements in various fields that contribute to international relations. The commendations recognize those who have made significant contributions to the friendship and goodwill between Japan and other countries, while also encouraging broader public understanding and support for their activities across all sectors of society.