Monterey Branch, U.S.A / June 2010 - Contributor: Branch Master Kazuki Arita

On May 14th (Fri), 2010, four Kenshi of Monterey Branch joined in a Shorinji Kempo demonstration for "Language Day" at the Defense Language Institute (DLI) in Monterey, California, U.S.A. The participants were Mr. Fumio Nishimura, Mr. Mitsugu Mori, Mr. Merced Rodriguez, and Kazuki Arita.





DLI is the world's largest language school managed by the U.S Department of Defense. It is located in Monterey along the central coast of California. There are more than 3500 military and U.S. Government officials who study in the 32 different foreign language programs. I (Arita) teach Japanese language at DLI where I used to teach Shorinji Kempo at the base gym of DLI before the branch was moved off-base and into Monterey town.

"Language Day" is an annual open house to students of all ages, from elementary to college level, and the general public in order to introduce the language school and many languages and cultures. The Shorinji Kempo demonstration collaborated with Kendo demonstration was held in order to introduce Japanese Martial Arts as Japanese culture on behalf of the Japanese Branch having the longest history at DLI.

At first, I briefly explained the philosophy and techniques of Shorinji Kempo. Then, three Kenshi and I demonstrated various techniques including basic techniques from Kaisoku-Chudan, and Goho and Juho techniques. Because the demonstration was held as the late stage performances after the other performances of other languages' ethnic dances, all the audience was very impressed to watch our techniques with sharp Kiai though the demonstration time was short.

I really appreciate the participants' precious time, effort, and great kindness to join in the demonstration. We plan to continue demonstrating Shorinji Kempo at DLI in order to help spread the name and philosophy of Shorinji Kempo in the U.S.

 

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