Leadership

President: Mami Masuya Fleming, Teacher, United Nations International School

Vice President: Masahiro Tanaka, Teacher, United Nations International School

Treasurer: Masatoshi Shimano, Former Teacher, St. Paul’s School

Secretary: Masayo Oyama, Founder, Movement for Language and Culture Japan

Under this leadership, MLC operates through close collaboration with educators, students, and partner organizations in the United States and abroad. Together, we build a learning community where language, culture, and global perspectives intersect—working toward a more connected and compassionate world.

About MLC (Who We Are)

Movement for Language and Culture (MLC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing Japanese language and cultural education, fostering global citizenship, and promoting meaningful intercultural exchange. Founded in 2009 as a New York State nonprofit and recognized as a 501(c)(3) organization, MLC supports learners, educators, and communities through curriculum development, teacher training, cultural exchange programs, and educational initiatives for multilingual learners.

Our Mission

MLC’s mission is rooted in the belief that language and culture are inseparable. We believe that learning both expands understanding and creativity, and opens pathways for collaboration across borders. Through inclusive, innovative, and culturally grounded educational opportunities, we strive to empower students and educators to reach their full potential.

Educational Materials Development

MLC has a long history of developing instructional materials widely used in secondary Japanese language education, particularly through the well-known Kisetsu series.

Key publications include:

  • Haru Ichiban

  • Ginga

  • Akimatsuri

  • Haru Ichiban Workbook 1 & 2

  • Ginga Workbook

  • Kanji Workbook

  • Kanji posters and the Haru Ichiban mobile app, among others

These materials support not only the development of practical language proficiency, but also cultural understanding and a spirit of inquiry.

Multilingual Student Haiku Contest

MLC has inherited and continues to expand a haiku contest with a 20-year legacy.
The contest provides a unique space where students and educators connect with the world through language, creativity, and culture.

Japanese Cultural Trip for High School Students

MLC plans and operates a spring Japanese cultural trip for high school students.
Through homestays, school visits, and community-based cultural experiences, students gain firsthand exposure to the Japanese language and culture.
To ensure broader access, MLC also offers needs-based travel grants for students who require financial support.

Support for Educators and Learners

MLC works to enhance the quality of education and create sustainable learning environments through:

  • Teacher workshops

  • Curriculum development support

  • Intercultural understanding programs

  • Learning community building

These efforts strengthen educational practice and foster meaningful, long-term learning experiences.

日本語ページ
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