I'm Surrounded by Communists

Okay, so maybe that title has a bit different connotation back in the States, but ought here in the inaka we frequently receive messages from the Japan Communist Party and Akahata (the "Red Flag" Communist Paper) in the mail.  In my former line of work and my studies, I understand what the Communist Party has become in Japan, so it's never a source of anxiety to know that the JCP is a relevant political entity in Japan.  Still, I do find it interesting when I look back on what the JCP used to be in the sixties and seventies--certainly not the most peaceful lot in Japan.  I guess everyone has to grow up sometime though, and that means the members of the JCP have slowed down and now resort to leaflets and newsletters instead of protests and raids.

I suppose with the election coming up next month, I should expect even more of these pamphlets, but maybe there will be a little more balance with the other parties (maybe even the new Hope Party).  I guess we'll see.