Fukushima Memorial and Reconstruction Commemoration Event

Fukushima Prefecture held a memorial and reconstruction ceremony at the Prefectural Cultural Center in Fukushima City on March 11.
At the "Great East Japan Earthquake Memorial and Reconstruction Commemoration Ceremony" (Hosted by Fukushima Prefecture, Co-hosted by the Fukushima Prefecture Mayors' Association and the Fukushima Prefecture Towns and Villages Association), Vice Chairman Yuki Tomizuka (Mayor of Tamura City) of the Prefecture Mayors' Association delivered the opening address. This was followed by a live broadcast of the government-sponsored memorial ceremony held in Tokyo, during which a moment of silence was observed simultaneously. Approximately 300 attendees, including bereaved families and related parties, were present.
In the broadcast, His Majesty the Emperor stated, "It is vital that we all remain united in our hearts and continue to support those affected by the disaster for the long term, ensuring their health is protected and they can live without losing hope." Prime Minister Shinzo Abe expressed his resolve, saying, "Accelerating reconstruction further and enabling those affected to return to normal life as soon as possible is the way to honor the victims."
After the broadcast, Fukushima Governor Yuhei Sato delivered a commemorative address, expressing condolences and stating, "The damage was immense, and many people remain evacuated both within and outside the prefecture. I pledge to create a 'New Fukushima' filled with safety, security, vitality, and compassion."

He also read a message from the governor pledging reconstruction at the end of the ceremony.

Next, at the "Fukushima Concert: Echoes of Recovery" (hosted by Fukushima Prefecture), local performers including members of the Fukushima University Orchestra, the Aizu High School Choir, and the cheerleading group "Claps," joined by guest artists: gagaku musician Hideki Togi, pianist Yukie Nishimura, and singer Hanako Oshima, played music filled with hope for the future. Finally, Governor Sato, all performers, and approximately 1,000 attendees united in a choral and ensemble performance. They paid tribute to the victims and renewed their commitment to reconstruction.