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SR 934

SENATE RESOLUTION CELEBRATING THE 171ST ANNIVERSARY OF THE U.S. -- JAPAN TREATY OF PEACE AND AMITY

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Pete Appollonio and 9 co-sponsors

Designates March 31 as Japan Day to honor the U.S.–Japan partnership and encourage ongoing collaboration in trade, culture, and security for Rhode Island.

04/01/2025 Senate read and passed
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Bill Summary · SR 934

Summary: Rhode Island Senate Resolution SR 934

Overview

SR 934 is a Rhode Island Senate resolution recognizing and celebrating the 171st anniversary of the U.S.–Japan Treaty of Peace and Amity. It designates March 31, 1854 (the date the treaty was signed) as “Japan Day” and encourages ongoing U.S.–Japan collaboration. The resolution also places the observance within the broader context of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month.

Purpose and Intent

  • Acknowledge a long-standing U.S.–Japan partnership grounded in diplomacy, trade, education, culture, and security cooperation.
  • Highlight Rhode Island’s connections to Japan through investment, trade, cultural exchanges, and academic collaboration.
  • Promote continued friendship, mutual understanding, and cooperation between the United States and Japan.

Key Provisions

  • Recognition of the U.S.–Japan relationship as a model of mutual respect and collaboration in areas such as commerce, education, technology, and cultural exchange.
  • Declaration that March 31st, the anniversary of the treaty’s signing in 1854, be commemorated as “Japan Day.”
  • Encouragement of ongoing collaboration and partnership to foster peace, prosperity, and mutual respect for future generations.
  • Authorization for the Secretary of State to transmit duly certified copies of the resolution to:
    • The President of the United States
    • U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse
    • U.S. Representatives Seth Magaziner and Gabe Amo
    • Rhode Island Governor, Lt. Governor, Treasurer, and Secretary of State
    • The Honorable Seiichiro Takahashi, Consul General of Japan in Boston

Background and Context (as presented in the bill)

  • May is recognized as Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.
  • Historical note: Commodore Matthew Perry’s 1853 visit led to the 1854 Treaty establishing formal U.S.–Japan relations.
  • Contemporary relations: Japan is a major trading partner and investor; strong people-to-people ties, including Rhode Island’s own business and academic ties with Japan.
  • Rhode Island-specific connections: Japanese investment in Rhode Island, trade activity, and cultural events (e.g., Black Ships Festival, Cherry Blossom Princess, Providence AnimeCon, Hachiko celebration in Woonsocket).
  • Security and educational links: Naval War College in Newport and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force collaboration.
  • A cited 2025 meeting in Washington, D.C., between President Donald J. Trump and Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba endorsing a “new golden age” in U.S.–Japan relations (note: included in the text of the resolution).

Procedural/Timeline Details

  • Introduced: April 1, 2025
  • Referred to: Recommended for Immediate Consideration
  • Status: 04/01/2025 — Senate read and passed
  • Type: Legislative resolution (ceremonial, not a bill imposing duties or creating new law)

Impact and Effect

  • No fiscal or regulatory impact; ceremonial in nature.
  • Enhances public recognition of Rhode Island’s ties to Japan and supports ongoing cultural, educational, and economic exchanges.
  • Serves as a formal expression of goodwill and a symbolic reaffirmation of the U.S.–Japan partnership.

Summary

SR 934 emphasizes the long-standing friendship between the United States and Japan, honors historical milestones, and promotes future collaboration. It designates a specific day of remembrance and arranges formal communication to key national and international figures, reflecting Rhode Island’s commitment to diplomacy, culture, and international cooperation.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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