Lately I have been thinking about the difficulties of Ainu affairs. The struggle to settle the gap between Ainu people, Ainu rights claims and Hokkaido-wide issues, and the problem of the national government of Japan, seems to be stuck in the mud. It seems as if we, the Ainu people, are constantly complaining that efforts made are never enough to meet our demands. “Recognize our human rights as Indigenous peoples!” “Ainu people need government support for this and that...” It seems we always make these requests but nothing ever seems to progress. Even though there is heated discussion about the Iwor (communally-shared land) restoration project and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, I wonder if regular citizens of Japan, especially residents of Hokkaido, have any understanding or appreciation for these rights? Will they accept our demands for human rights as Indigenous peoples and rejoice together with us if these rights are restored? This question has been in my mind everyday. Human rights and peace – and the other ideals sought by many Ainu today – are of critical importance for succeeding generations. But I fear that the majority of Hokkaido residents don’t appreciate or understand Ainu or Ainu issues. I have this feeling because of my own personal experiences teaching about Ainu history and culture at schools across Hokkaido. When I have tried to explain Ainu history and culture to schoolchildren, they don’t seem to understand. Even though this is an issue which concerns their land and livelihood here in their home of Hokkaido, and we Ainu are a neighboring culture, they seem disinterested. And the situation is getting worse. I want to pose a question here. If we Ainu are able to regain our own rights in the near future, will this create an environment for better Ainu and Wajin relations to live together on this island? Personally, I don’t think so. (abbreviated)

    「Before today’s event, I expressed my wish, “I want to join you not as an Ainu, not an indigenous representative, but on the same rank as a citizen and as a person who loves this island Hokkaido.” The organizers welcomed my point of view. I think this kind of discussion can also find a place in Ainu affairs. For Ainu to make gifts to other people returns something to us to help fill this gap. This is what I hope for the future.