[EngliPatrick]

In Japan, JHS students are just graduating. When the students graduate, red & white vertical striped cloth is hung around the edges of the gym. I was told today that the 'red' represents birth and the 'white' is death. That seems kinda strange to me...

What other interesting things do you notice at graduation ceremonies?

[mesmark]

Someone will now announce the beginning of the ceremony.

[mesmark]

Mark slowly makes his way to the podium...
"The ceremony has started."

Mark slowly makes his way back to his seat.

Someone will now give the openning address.

Mark again slowly makes his way back to the stage ...

[EngliPatrick]

Even after living in Japan for almost 5 years, I still don't quite know how to handle the national anthem being sung at graduation. For all those that don't know, Japan's national anthem is pretty controversial because it is tied to WWII. Some Japanese don't even stand when the song is played. Further yet, some teachers in Tokyo are being passively persecuted by the local board of education via principals writing down and submitting a list of names to the BoE of people refusing to participate when sung.

Personally, I stand but I don't sing. All disagreements aside, I still don't know how to handle another country's national anthem... Do I sit or stand? Do I sing or remain quiet? Do I take off any head gear or keep it on? etc...

[Siddhartha]

I think you’re handling it the right way. It’s important to be respectful, and standing up conveys that well. I can’t imagine any rational person expecting you to do anything beyond that though.