A Night of Stars and Stripes
ACCJ members and partners celebrated 250 years of American independence.
The American Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ACCJ) hosted its annual Independence Day celebration on July 1 at Tokyo American Club to mark a huge milestone: the United States’ 250th birthday.
More than 430 members, guests, and partners from the US and Japanese governments gathered for a night of delicious food, inspiring music, and meaningful networking.
After emcee Connor Myers’s opening remarks and Japanese American recording artist Aisha’s rousing rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” ACCJ President Eric John welcomed everyone to the special evening.
“We are fortunate to be living and working in Japan in a period where US–Japan bilateral ties are the strongest they have ever been, and our relationship is also the most important alliance in the world,” said John, a retired US ambassador. “At the same time, our business ties are the healthiest they have been. In part, that is due to the tireless work of the US embassy in collaborating with our chamber and advocating on behalf of our incredible member companies.”
He also noted that the power of the ACCJ comes from its 3,000-plus members, including those who volunteer their time to serve on the Board of Governors and as committee leaders. “Our success is entirely due to the dedication of all of you. Now is the time to rethink and act together on what the business community can do to shape our shared future and strengthen our resilience.”
Minister-Counselor John Breidenstine from the commercial affairs section of the US Embassy, Tokyo gave the Independence Day address.
“Two hundred and fifty years ago, a group of extraordinarily troublesome men gathered in Philadelphia and did something the world had never seen before. They argued, they debated, they exasperated one another, and in the end, they changed history,” he said. “America has never been a finished project. It is an ongoing argument, a continuing experiment, a promise being renewed in every generation. Tonight, in the company of friends, allies, and partners, both American and Japanese, we renew it again.”
Breidenstine then raised a glass and led everyone in a celebratory kampai, toasting not only America’s birthday but the bilateral partnerships, friendships, and collaborations represented in the room.
As food service opened up with a classic American barbecue-inspired menu paired with wine from the California Wine Institute, Fender Japan Director of Regional Sales Yasuhiko Yajima introduced the night’s headline performer, legendary American guitarist Marty Friedman. Well known as the lead guitarist of American thrash metal band Megadeth, Friedman moved to Japan in 2004 to pursue his love of the country, language, and a desire to perform with Japanese musicians. He was named an ambassador of Japanese heritage by the Agency for Cultural Affairs in 2016.
Following a spectacular performance by Friedman and his band, members and guests continued networking in the New York Ballroom and across the way in the RGA Music and Dessert Lounge, where Baskin-Robbins served up a special Fourth of July-themed ice cream sundae.
Also on display in the lounge were limited-edition commemorative Bluetooth speakers created by event partner ELAC exclusively for the ACCJ. Inspired by 250 years of American innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit and limited to 100 units, the collectible, which combines bold sound, timeless design, and a touch of patriotic flair, was part of the evening’s lucky draw giveaway.
Made possible by the generous support of Aflac, Boeing Japan, and Harley-Davidson, which contributed at the highest level as Stars and Stripes sponsors, along with Liberty Bell sponsors Uber for Business and the National Basketball Association, as well as Red, White, and Blue sponsors Seibu Prince Hotels and Resorts, the evening was a fitting tribute to the enduring nature not only of the United States, but also to the dedication of the ACCJ and its members to ensuring that the country’s relationship with Japan continues to flourish for centuries to come.
