XはYです

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Here are the key points of this lesson: Omission of the subject (Xは) Using 'は' for clarity Nouns in Japanese” Omission of the subject (Xは) In Japanese, sentences often omit subjects when the context makes them clear, unlike in English where subjects like "I" or "it" are typically included.  For example, "I am a student," "My major is Japanese language," and "It is 12:30" translate into Japanese as "がくせいです," "にほんごです," and "12じはんです," respectively, without direct subjects. Using 'は' for clarity If the context doesn't provide clarity, Japanese sentences can start with a topic marked by "wa" (は in hiragana), indicating "As for X, it is Y.” For example,  “わたしは がくせいです" (As for me, I am a student), “せんこうは にほんごです" (As for my major, it is Japanese language), and "じかんは12じはんです" (As for the current time, it is 12:30). The particle "wa" (は), used to denote ...
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Exploring Diversity and Challenges in Japan

My Small Land portrays the changes and challenges in Japanese Society

©2022"My Small Land" Production Committee


Japan is changing as more foreigners come to live in the country. This brings opportunities and challenges as different cultures mix and communities become more diverse. This article explores these changes and examines the issues portrayed in the movie "My Small Land." The film follows Sarya, a young girl from a Kurdish family who moved to Japan when she was little. By understanding these challenges, we can work towards building a more inclusive and open society for the future.


Sarya, a 17-year-old high school student, has a unique background. Her Kurdish family sought refuge in Japan, and she grew up like any other Japanese student. Sarya dreams of becoming a teacher and works part-time at a convenience store to save money for university. She meets Shota, a male high school student, and they become close friends there. However, their lives suddenly turn when Sarya's family's refugee application is rejected, and they lose their residency status.


Sarya faces numerous challenges. She loses her job for working illegally and is forbidden from dating by Shota's relatives, and her visa status prevents her from entering university. Additionally, she receives an eviction notice for failing to pay rent. In her desperation, Sarya tries engaging in a sugar daddy arrangement but flees when faced with an uncomfortable situation.


During this challenging time, Shota visits Sarya's flat late at night and offers gentle encouragement. Sarya nearly breaks down in tears. Meanwhile, Sarya's father cannot leave the immigration detention facility and decides to return home, even though it’s risky. He was arrested for participating in anti-government protests and would face arrest if he returned to his country. However, by leaving Japan, there is a chance that Sarya and her remaining siblings could be granted visas.


The movie highlights the importance of Japan becoming more open and inclusive on a global scale. By recognising the challenges individuals like Sarya face, we can work towards creating an environment that supports people from diverse backgrounds. Society must have constructive conversations, raise awareness, and implement effective measures to address the struggles experienced by refugees and foreign residents.


Location: Japan

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