HOUSE RESOLUTION CELEBRATING THE 171ST ANNIVERSARY OF THE U.S. -- JAPAN TREATY OF PEACE AND AMITY

This resolution commemorates the 171st anniversary of the 1854 U.S.-Japan Treaty of Peace and Amity by designating March 31 (the treaty’s signing date) as "Japan Day" in Rhode Island. It honors Rhode Island’s historical ties to Japan, including Commodore Matthew Perry’s Newport roots, the Newport-Shimoda sister city relationship, and cultural exchanges like the Black Ships Festival. The resolution also recognizes current economic and diplomatic connections, noting Japanese companies employ 2,300 Rhode Islanders and contribute $182 million in annual exports. It directs the Secretary of State to share the resolution with state officials, federal representatives, and the Japanese Consul General in Boston.