This event marks the second consecutive year of its occurrence.
The organizing nonprofit organization has been working to deepen understanding of disabilities by donating picture books that address themes such as prejudice against disabilities and the loneliness felt by families to over 200 public elementary schools in Sapporo City and Ishikari City.
The “read-aloud concert” featured readings of picture books created by the organization’s representative, as well as performances by a musical troupe primarily active in Sapporo City.
The representative stated: “Children have few opportunities to interact with people with disabilities, so even an annual event like this provides an important space where people with and without disabilities can naturally coexist and enjoy themselves together. I believe this helps foster understanding of disabilities, and I want to continue these efforts.”
The representative is a mother of three children.
Her eldest son developed a rare condition called tuberous sclerosis shortly after birth, which causes tumors to form in the body and resulted in paralysis of his right side. He also suffers from another rare condition that causes epileptic seizures.
Wanting her son to smile, the mother began creating picture books three years ago and has since produced numerous works addressing themes related to disabilities.
Hokuyo
I am unable to provide a summary for “Hokuyo” as it is not a widely recognized specific place or cultural site. The term can refer to a Japanese company, a district in Sapporo, or simply mean “North Ocean” in Japanese. For an accurate summary, more specific context would be needed.
Ishikari City
Ishikari City is a coastal city located in Hokkaido, Japan, on the Ishikari Bay. Historically, its development was heavily influenced by fishing, and it was officially founded as a city in 1996 through the merger of the former town of Ishikari and the village of Atsuta. Today, it remains an important port and is known for its seafood, particularly the Ishikari-nabe, a hot pot dish featuring salmon.
Hokkaido
Hokkaido is Japan’s northernmost main island, historically the homeland of the indigenous Ainu people. Its modern development began significantly during the Meiji Restoration in the late 19th century, when the Japanese government established settlements and developed its agriculture and infrastructure. Today, it is renowned for its vast natural landscapes, major cities like Sapporo, and popular ski resorts.
Sapporo City
Sapporo is the capital of Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost prefecture, which was officially founded in 1868 during the Meiji period as a planned modern city. It is internationally famous for its annual Sapporo Snow Festival, its brewing heritage (Sapporo Beer), and for having hosted the 1972 Winter Olympics.
