Hundreds to Rally at Japanese Embassy in Washington in Support of Family Federation Japan

Demonstration calls for protection of religious liberty in Japan after government dissolves Family Federation churches

Mar. 16, 2026 at 1:40pm

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Members of the Family Federation and supporters will gather outside the Japanese Embassy in Washington, DC on Thursday, March 19 at 12:00 PM to call attention to what organizers describe as a serious and historic moment for religious freedom in Japan. Participants say the Japanese government has dissolved the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification, resulting in the closure of 400 churches and offices across the country.

Why it matters

The demonstration in Washington will serve as a peaceful appeal for the protection of religious liberty and the dignity of people of the members of the Family Federation. Organizers say members of the global faith community are standing in solidarity with those in Japan who cannot publicly gather in the same way.

The details

Congregations that had existed for decades were forced to shut their doors, and thousands of members were asked to leave sanctuaries where they had prayed, gathered, and raised their families in faith. The rally comes at a significant moment as Japanese leadership visits Washington this week. Organizers expect approximately 500 participants, including members of the Family Federation and supporters of religious liberty.

  • The demonstration will take place on Thursday, March 19, 2026 at 12:00 PM.
  • The Japanese government dissolved the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification in Japan, resulting in the closure of 400 churches and offices across the country.

The players

Family Federation for World Peace and Unification

A global religious movement that has faced dissolution of its churches and offices in Japan by the government.

Japanese Government

The government that has dissolved the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification in Japan, resulting in the closure of 400 churches and offices across the country.

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What’s next

The rally comes at a significant moment as Japanese leadership visits Washington this week. Organizers say they hope their peaceful demonstration will raise awareness and encourage dialogue about the protection of religious freedom.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of protecting religious freedom and the rights of faith communities around the world, even when they face challenges from government authorities. The global community is standing in solidarity with the members of the Family Federation in Japan as they navigate this difficult situation.