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Japan Press Service Co., Ltd. is the only news agency providing information of progressive, democratic movements in Japan

Over 4,700 Article 9 associations formed

In response to an appeal of the "Article 9 Association," which was established in June 2004 in defense of war-renouncing Article 9 of the Constitution, the movement has been increased so rapidly in local communities and various fields that the number of similar associations has reached 4,770 nationwide. At the beginning of this year, the number surpassed 4,000.

Akahata on April 28 reported that 424 associations have formed in Osaka Prefecture and more than 300 in such prefectures as Tokyo, Hokkaido, and Kyoto.

The associations are aiming at a success of the first national exchange meeting of the "Article 9 Associations" to be held on June 10.

Kawamura Toshio of the "Article 9 Association" secretariat said, "It is remarkable that these associations are increasing at the grassroots level, overcoming differences of thought and creed. I hope the June 10 national meeting will be an opportunity for many associations to exchange their experiences and to richly develop their activities."
- Akahata, April 28, 2006