Though it may be difficult to recall now, May 2019 was a month of hope. The nation had an unusual 10-day holiday (an extension of the regular Golden Week holidays) to commemorate the new emperor's enthronement and the start of the new Reiwa Era.
With their experience of having studied overseas, Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako symbolized the new image of Japan, where diversity and inclusion were finally being given a boost after long discussions. A year ago my column stated that it was time to “make diversity and inclusion a reality.”
A year later, we are in the midst of the COVID-19 state of emergency, and national borders are closed throughout the world, making the cross-border movement of people almost impossible. Usually May is a great month for travel, domestic or overseas. Now people are urged to stay home.