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Convenience store hire heralded as a victory for all foreigners
On March 02, 2008 in fun
In what many activists are calling a major victory for the rights of foreigners in Japan, Gabriel (left) reported for his first day of work on Saturday, January 19, at Lawsons Shibuya #998. To many his employment paints an optimistic picture for the future of equal rights in Japan. Gone will be the days of Japanese-only minimum wage jobs, some say.
“For too long the fast food and convenience store industries of Japan have denied applicants with Western faces equal opportunities for quality employment,” has been the cry of Michael Fitzgeraldson, member of A3F (the Association for Foreigners-workers in Fast Food). Now, with another hire under their belt, the association feels its voice is finally being heard.
Experts predict that by late 2009 a variety of previously inaccessible jobs will begin to open up to foreign workers like Gabriel. “We will see foreigners in many new roles. From greeters in stores like Takashimaya to street sweepers, the possibilities are very exciting,” gushed Prof. Nakagawa. “Foreigners and Japanese are really breaking down walls and entering into a new era of mutual understandingness.”
This is truly a proud moment in the chronicles of non-Japanese/Japanese relations. We owe it all to the brave forerunners who worked so hard to get where they are today. This reporter tips his hat to you, Gabriel, and the other strong gaikokujin who have paved the way. Thank you!
Disclaimer:
The preceding article makes no claim to factuality or truthiness. All names and situations are fictional even if in fact they are based on real facts, but they’re not. The editor of this blog was bored, or possibly drugged/sleep-deprived at the time of this posting and therefore does not represent the viewpoint and opinions of DailyJ and its associates (of which the editor is the sole member). Some of the inspiration for this article came from the New Gabriel Times, a nice blog if I do say so myself (which I do and you are obliged to agree). The editor wishes you all a good day and hopes you will find happy employment heating nikuman and oden at one of Japan’s fine convenience establishments. If you still hunger for satirical silliness check out Gaba Teachers Association
Might be a while before we see this as legit!
Hi Neil, Thanks for commenting
I’m sure it will be (if it ever happens). Although I have seen foreigners working at traditional Japanese restaurants (some sushi chefs) and I have a friend who worked for awhile at a ramen shop.
Actually, about 5 years ago I had a very white English student that worked at both McDonalds and a convenience store.
He was about 17 and had been here since he was about 10. He was fluent in Japanese and his visa status allowed him to work.
@Dan
Neat. It’s good to hear that those companies do hire based on ability and not just appearances.
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