Lady Gaga recognized by the Japanese government for relief efforts
On June 23rd, American artist Lady Gaga attended a press conference held two days before the MTV VIDEO MUSIC AID JAPAN (VMAJ), which she will attend as a performing artist.
During the conference, the Japanese government presented Gaga with a certificate thanking her for her help in earthquake and tsunami disaster relief efforts. During a time in which so many foreign artists are canceling their Japanese concerts, the pop icon said, “I really don’t need this, because my love for Japan is for free. But I will treasure this forever”.
The artist received another gift in addition to the certificate. Mizobata Hiroshi – the Minister of Tourism and representative for the Japanese government at the event – presented Gaga with a popular souvenir of Fukushima: the “okiagari koboshi”, a doll that always stands back up when it’s pushed down. The gift symbolizes the people affected by the earthquake and their “never give up” mentality.
Lady Gaga sported the charity bracelet she designed for disaster relief in Japan, and also drank from the tea cup with the words “pray for Japan” printed on it during the press conference. “I’m going to auction off this cup,” she remarked before adding with a laugh, “A red lipstick stain is still on it”.
“I’m so happy that I was able to come back to Japan. I always get great inspiration when I come here”, she said with a smile, but there were also times when thoughts of Japan’s struggles almost brought her to tears. When asked about her upcoming performance she added, “I’m really excited about it. I think it’ll be a really great performance”.
“MTV VIDEO MUSIC AWARDS JAPAN” was originally created by MTV nine years ago as an international music video award show. For its tenth anniversary this year, the word “awards” was changed to “aid” due to the March 11th disaster. With AKB48 as the event’s host, nine artists – including Amuro Namie, Exile, Shojo Jidai, SHINee, and Lady Gaga – will perform that night in addition to a fantastic line-up of presenters. Coverage of the event will begin June 25th at 6:00 PM JST.
Check out more photos from the press conference below!
Source + Photos: Eiga
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