Message from the Honorary Consul in Fresno

Dr. Joy J. Goto was appointed Honorary Consul of Japan in Fresno in April 2024. This role represents not just a title, but a profound commitment to deepening the cultural, economic, and social ties between Japan and the Central Valley.

As a third-generation Japanese-American, born and raised in Fresno, I am deeply connected to this community. My roots here have shaped my values and my dedication to fostering strong cultural and community ties.

In 2019, I had the privilege of participating in the Japanese American Leadership Delegation (JALD) program of the U.S.-Japan Council. This delegation work left a lasting impression on me. Meeting the young leaders of Forum 21, provided me with a unique perspective on Japan's Society 5.0. Our discussions underscored the importance of technological advancement while acknowledging the societal challenges we must overcome. A particularly memorable moment was meeting Her Imperial Highness, Princess Takamado and learning about Japan's innovative approach to sustainability, such as using recycled metals for the 2020 Olympic medals. These experiences reaffirmed the irreplaceable value of direct human interactions in fostering mutual understanding and collaboration.

Reflecting on my journey, I am grateful for the opportunities that have shaped my path. My collaboration with the Human Rights Coalition of the Central Valley (HRCCV) has been particularly meaningful. Together, we have organized impactful programs commemorating the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. These are moving memorials as they directly connect to the Japanese community, which includes many Japanese nationals from Hiroshima in the Central Valley. I have family members, including my mother and grandparents who were born in Hiroshima.

I have had the privilege of serving as the Governor of the Central California District Council of the Japanese American Citizens League (JACL), Chair of the National Resolutions Committee, and I currently serve as the treasurer of the Fresno JACL. The JACL, established in 1929, is the nation's oldest and largest Asian American civil rights organization, with the Fresno Chapter being the first and oldest chapter. As the governor of the Central California District Council of JACL, I have had the privilege of uniting our community through significant initiatives. The inaugural Central Valley Nikkei Summit brought together individuals across generations to discuss our community's future. These events emphasized the importance of learning from our past to inform our present efforts in social justice.

Currently, I serve as the Interim Dean of the Division of Research and Graduate Studies at Fresno State. I am committed to connecting to the local San Joaquin Valley community through my involvement in the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) campus community and my service with the JACL, and now in my role as Honorary Consul.

As I step into the role of Honorary Consul of Japan in Fresno, I am committed to building upon these experiences to foster stronger ties between Japan and our community. Together, we will continue to promote cultural exchange, economic collaboration, and social justice, enriching the lives of those we serve.

Thank you for your trust and support. I look forward to embarking on this journey with all of you.

Joy J. Goto, Ph.D.
E-mail: HC.Japan.Fresno@gmail.com