Japan is Our Sister Country

Earthquakes, tsunamis and the potential for radiation exposure have decimated the north eastern coast of Japan. Our hearts and prayers go out to the individuals and families affected by this horrible series of disasters. As the fate of a number of reactors is still undecided, we hope for maximum containment and minimal impact on the workers, surrounding cities and environment. 

The Connection

For many import-performance enthusiasts in America, Japan is like a sister country. The shared enthusiasm and passion for automotive performance, tuning and motorsports forms strong bonds between enthusiasts, manufacturers, tuning shops and drivers. 

For our DSPORT staff and anyone else that’s been fortunate enough to visit Japan, the connection to the people and culture of Japan is likely even stronger. Some of us have family and friends directly or indirectly affected by the disaster. As we learn more about the devastation in this aftermath, many feel prompted to help in some way, shape or form. They ask, “What can I do to help?”

The Support

There are many ways to help the relief effort in Japan. Organizations like the American Red Cross, along with various church and charitable organizations accept donations to provide humanitarian aid to Japan. Before you make a pledge to an organization, be sure to do a little background check on the organization. If only twenty cents of every dollar donated goes to the relief and the rest goes to support the infrastructure of the organization, less money gets to those that really need it. Remember, there are some individuals and organizations that prey upon the charity of others for their own profit. Don’t make this disaster, their payday. Please take the time to invest your donations with the right organizations. If you don’t have the time to do the research, the American Red Cross is a great fallback plan. In fact, you can simply text “REDCROSS” to 90999 to make a $10 donation. 

Besides Donations

In addition to the humanitarian impact of the disaster, the economic impact may reach $100 billion or more. Continuing or making an effort to purchase goods manufactured in Japan can go a long way in helping to restore that country’s economy. Of course, tourism always helps and we hope that our 2012 Tokyo Auto Salon tour reaches
a record level of attendees.

Once we know more about how we can help, we’ll continue to spread the word. As media and event producer, we hope to raise awareness and assistance for those in need. Stay tuned.