U.S. Deaflympics Delegation Receives Cultural Send-Off from the Embassy of Japan in Washington, D.C.

WASHINGTON, D.C. (October 30, 2025) — Members of the USA Deaflympics delegation gathered at the Embassy of Japan in downtown Washington for an official cultural orientation and send-off ahead of the 2025 Deaflympics in Tokyo.

The event, hosted by the Embassy of Japan, welcomed U.S. athletes, coaches, medical staff, donors, and administrators representing the United States of America Deaf Sports Federation (USADSF). The orientation provided an in-depth look into Japanese culture, traditions, local customs, and daily life in Tokyo, preparing Team USA for their upcoming international competition.

Participants learned about Japan’s Deaf community, including an introduction to Japanese Sign Language (JSL) and the Tsukuba University of Technology, a national university dedicated to advancing higher education and research opportunities for Deaf and hard of hearing students. The cultural session was led by Helen Swift, Educational Programs Coordinator at the Embassy of Japan, and offered practical insights into Japanese etiquette, weather, and cultural nuances.

The visit was made possible through the support of Neil Murata, Deputy Director for East Asia and Pacific Affairs at the U.S. Department of State, who helped facilitate the event. Murata has also been collaborating closely with Gallaudet University President Roberta “Bobbi” Cordano as she prepares for her visit to Tokyo during the Deaflympics.

In attendance were USADSF President Jeff Mansfield, Team Leaders Lynn Ray Boren and Justen Burns, and other members of the U.S. Deaflympics delegation. Although unable to attend in person, Shigeo Yamada, Ambassador of Japan to the United States, shared his greetings and words of encouragement through a special video message for the USADSF delegation.

Following the orientation, guests were treated to a spread of traditional Japanese cuisine, including sushi, karaage, yakitori and shrimp shumai, accompanied by a celebratory toast of sake in honor of the upcoming Games.

The Embassy’s hospitality and cultural guidance inspired the members of Team USA as they count down the days to the 2025 Deaflympics Opening Ceremony in Tokyo. The event emphasized the shared values of friendship, respect, and global connection through sport and Deaf culture.