Paper Lanterns: 80 Years After Hiroshima & Nagasaki

This year marks the 80th year since the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Japan, a moment in history that continues to echo through generations. In remembrance of this anniversary, CSMA will present a screening of director Barry Frechette’s documentary, Paper Lanterns, nominated for Best Documentary Feature at the Woods Hole Film Festival in 2016. The film was screened multiple times at the United Nations, including four showings at the UN Headquarters in New York. It was also featured at the UN Office in Geneva and the WTO, where producer Nobuko Saito Cleary was invited to make a speech on peace in May 2025. Paper Lanterns tells the extraordinary story of Shigeaki Mori, a survivor of the Hiroshima bombing whose life was transformed by a deeply personal mission: to uncover and share the stories of tens of thousands of Japanese victims, and to identify and honor twelve American prisoners of war who also perished that day. Among them were Normand Brissette of Massachusetts and Ralph Neal of Kentucky. Through decades of tireless effort, Mr. Mori brought long-overdue recognition to these men and helped their grieving families find a sense of connection, closure, and peace. Video messages from The Honorable John Roos, former U.S. Ambassador to Japan, The Honorable Suzuki, Mayor of Nagasaki, Mr. Mori and others will open this event. The screening will be followed by a discussion featuring guest speaker Nobuko Saito Cleary and others. Attendees will be invited to join in a short Bon Odori, or Bon dance — traditional Japanese dances performed to honor those who have passed. These folk dances will be led by Reiko Iwanaga/Reimichi Hanayagi. All are also invited to stay for a reception to reflect and connect. This event is hosted in collaboration with The Japan Society of Northern California and the Consulate General of Japan in San Francisco.