We held an APFS Christmas party.

APFS held its Christmas party on December 20, 2009. Over 100 people gathered that day to enjoy delicious ethnic food and deepen their friendships through thrilling games.

Many family members without resident status attend APFS parties. Living without resident status in Japanese society is a great source of mental stress. When will we be able to hold a Christmas party that people who are burdened with serious worries and suffering can truly enjoy?

Many family members without resident status attend APFS parties. Living without resident status in Japanese society is a great source of mental stress. When will we be able to hold a Christmas party that people who are burdened with serious worries and suffering can truly enjoy?

On that day, children from 22 families who had already been issued deportation orders also participated. These children dream of becoming police officers, train drivers, or pastry chefs. However, in their current situation without legal residency status, it is difficult for them to pursue any profession. The first step in making these children's dreams come true is for the adults to work a little harder to obtain special permission to stay in Japan.

APFS has been appealing to the Immigration Bureau since February of last year, through actions such as a 100-day campaign, to grant special permission to stay in Japan to 22 families, but the situation remains very difficult. Of the 22 families, eight fathers are being held by the Immigration Bureau. The families had hoped that their fathers would be granted temporary release in time for Christmas so that their children could receive wonderful presents, but it seems the Immigration Bureau did not hear the children's pleas.

APFS may be seen as a tough group due to its actions such as protesting in front of the Ministry of Justice, but it also has many fun events like the Asia Fair and Christmas parties. We hope you'll come and visit us sometime!