While Covid-19 masks are becoming a cultural icon of social responsibility and good citizenship, the world witnessed the brutality of the people that are supposed to protect all of us. On May 25, the death of George Floyd—a 46-years old Black man—who took his last breath as a U.S police officer kneeled onto his neck for 8 minutes and 46 seconds, has once again ignited the ongoing fight against racism.
Some might feel they are not concerned by this event as it has happened far away, but the reality is that racism doesn’t have a geographic boundary: it can manifest anywhere. Yes, even in Japan do people of color (POC) experience racial injustice, microinsults, gaslighting phrases such as “What I said/did is not racist” or “Why is it always about race?” or fetishization which is pretty much racism wrapped in a pretty package and actually manipulative and dehumanizing.
Soul food house, Tokyo 106-0045, Minato City, Azabujuban, 2 Chome−8−10
Little Ethiopia, Tokyo 124-0014, Katsushika City, 3 Chome-34-17 Higashiyotsugi
2. Follow Black Artists
Soon the Flood, Idris Veitch
- Tegvir Singh – Instagram
Jk Wings, Tegvir Singh
- Wendy Sylvain – Instagram
Chant d’amour, Wendy Sylvain
- Aaron Marin – Instagram
Black Cyberpunk, Aaron Marin
3. Join Peaceful Marches in Japan
4. Engage in the Community
On June 27, the event “8:46 – A Conversation About Race In Tokyo ” will be held in Tokyo, both in English and Japanese.
George Floyd isn’t a “wake up call”. The same alarm has been ringing since 1619. We all just keep hitting snooze.
We are proud to host 8:46 (Eight Minutes Forty-six Seconds) and invite our community to a conversation about race in Tokyo. Join us for a guided discussion, activities, music, art, and drinks/snacks.
Sign up if you wish to attend, the event is limited to 50 participants.
If you have other Black-owned businesses recommendations, event, peaceful march to add to this list, leave a comment orcontact us.
