With their angry fists, now I think they are both psycho. Thanks, Japan, for not offering me the vote. Still, I would not recommend these two by their looks. Though I like how they keep their daddy-son relationship ambiguous: pair look with matching black suits, button down collars and no ties. Clearly inter-generational, but is it biological, political, or sexual?
People with disagreeable political views should not be this attractive.
In the past year, I’ve been to many anti-nuclear protests in Tokyo. In addition to more noble, collective goals of safety and truth-telling, the demos are an awesome place for anyone with even a passing interest in the police force of Japan. Yes, the police often outnumber the protesters, and their blue uniforms, safety vests, plastic bullhorns, and other accessories are very interesting to watch and photo.
In this photo, I particularly like the plastic bags protecting the caps. The serious expressions and down-turned mouths are also adorable!
After two consecutive political images– not sure which is uglier, politicians buttholes or faces– I thought this blog needed some festive yankiis to balance out the male beauty spectrum.
These guys were selling drinks and street food at the Nichome Rainbow Festival two weeks ago. I love how they combine androgyny (hair clip, check!), damaged hair, towel as scarf, and a touch of punk (lip piercing, check!).
Now we’ve all seen the future of Japan, and can rest more easily!
Mostly the Tokyo Pride Parade was about fun, community, and visibility. There were a few political statements that struck me as especially relevant.
Above these incredibly young kids are posing with a sign saying, “自分らしさをあきらめない” (Jibun rashisa wo akiramenai, which means “I won’t give up my individuality”). Go, kids!
Below, there’s a message linking visas and marriage. I also love the woman with the rainbow umbrella, super colorful dress, and sign that says “God doesn’t bless marriages.” As part of an international couple, I feel the inconvenience of Japan and the US’s lack of immigration rights for gay spouses.
I am, of course, *loving* how US conservatives are going crazy over Obama’s bowing to the Japanese Emperor. How dare he show respect to the titular leader of a foreign country?! Never mind how W walked hand-in-hand with the Saudi Arabian royal petro dealers or cozied up perched on their arm rests.
Obama playing nice in Japan and currying favor in Chinese signals a shift from the aggressive unilateralism into a new era where the US must please and satisfy the purchasers of our ballooning Treasury debt. The sexual undertones add to the political realignment of new roles and possibilities.
As others have noted, Obama was poorly prepared for his meeting with Japanese leaders. You do not bow while hand-shaking. It is either/or, or at the least bow-then-shake.
Tokyo Moe 