A Year After the Quake, a Moment of Silence for Japan

The first foreshocks came on March 9, 2011. Two days later, the fifth-largest earthquake in modern history struck about 45 miles off the coast of Sendai, Japan, unleashing a cascading series of disasters: broken buildings and infrastructure, a massive tsunami, and eventual meltdowns at several nuclear reactors. Tens of thousands of people lost their lives. Hundreds of thousands were displaced. Entire villages were swept away.

The Japanese people will be recovering from this catastrophe for years to come. For those of us outside of Japan, however, it’s all too easy to forget. That’s why, to commemorate the one-year anniversary of the earthquake and tsunami, GOOD will join the Japan Society of New York in observing a moment of silence led by Ambassador Shigeyuki Hiroki, Japan's consul general in New York, at 2:46 p.m. this Sunday, March 11. We invite you to join us, wherever you are. At 2:46 p.m. in your time zone, take a minute to reflect on the incredible challenge facing Japan. Then let the country's people know they still have your support on Twitter with the hashtag #oneyearlater.

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If you're in New York, the Japan Society is holding a series of events and film screenings on Sunday, and a panel discussion about recovery efforts in the region next Tuesday. Or donate funds to support those efforts—the need remains great.

Photo via (cc) Flickr user Official U.S. Navy Imagery