Japan’s Princess Kako Attends High School Sign-Language Speech Competition in Tokyo

The Yomiuri Shimbun

1:00 JST, August 21, 2024

Princess Kako, second daughter of Crown Prince Akishino and Crown Princess Kiko, attended an annual sign language speech competition for high school students from across Japan in Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo, on Sunday.

“I hope there will be deeper understanding of different backgrounds and circumstances,” the princess said in a sign language address at the 41st edition of the competition.

In her address, the princess also spoke about hard of hearing individuals affected by the Noto Peninsula Earthquake in January who were relieved to receive needed information in sign language.

In the competition, 10 high school students selected from across the country gave speeches in sign language, which the princess applauded.