
LAJI builds global networks with artists, scientists, social thinkers, Holocaust survivors, Hibakusha, atomic bomb survivors, universities, national parks, museums, businesses and communities to promote intercultural partnerships and inclusion through cultural dialogue. LAJI values complex and nuanced storytelling to inspire human change and cultural diplomacy. LAJI is named for the historic intercultural relationships we developed with atomic legacy communities in the US and Japan— a sacred foundation that informs our global human-centered work today.
My grandfather took sole responsibility for the atomic bombings of Japan, neither making excuses nor denying the devastation. In 1947, when criticized for placing a wreath at the tomb of six Mexican army cadets who had died fighting against the US 100 years earlier, he said: "They had courage and courage does not belong to any one nation. You honor courage wherever you find it." We rejoice in the lives saved in WWII and acknowledge and honor the suffering of the people of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
"For me, the recognition of Israel is a story of two friends—one, a small businessman, imploring the other, the most powerful leader on earth, to listen to the story of a people who wanted and deserved the safety and self-determination of a sovereign nation."
An intercultural communication leader, Judith facilitates strategic development with universities, organizations, museums, national parks, communities, and business leaders. Previously as Los Alamos History Museum Director, Judith expanded exhibits to include underrepresented voices and untold stories for the first time in the museum’s 50-year history—and delivered historic atomic legacy proclamations she negotiated from Los Alamos to Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Judith founded LAJI to advance cultural partnership, global dialogue, and everyday diplomacy.
Listen to the Oak Ridge International Friendship Bell—an 8,000-pound bronze Kyoto bell designed to symbolize shared peace and friendship with Japan. The bell is part of the Manhattan Project National Historical Park in Oak Ridge, TN.
Your support enables LAJI to build intercultural bridges and cultural diplomacy through dialogue across shared histories.
LAJI NON-PROFIT FISCAL AGENT
The Paper Crane Foundation supports programming on reconciliation, disarmament and open, honest discussion of conflict. It is the sister organization to Japan’s Sadako Legacy, honoring Hiroshima survivor Sadako Sasaki, whose dying wish was for peace.
As I was raised in Hiroshima, Los Alamos instantly reminded me of the bombing of Hiroshima on August, 6, 1945. At first I hesitated to visit but the warm personality of Judith Stauber helped me make the decision to actually visit. I cannot forget the warm welcome by Dr. Stauber and the people of Los Alamos. To my surprise, the beautiful blue sky and clear air made me feel refreshed and even familiar. After seeing exhibits and talking with people in Los Alamos—I reaffirmed the tremendous impact of science on humanity and the importance of faithfully facing history. ~Kenji Shiga, Former Director Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
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