TOP > Multi-topic Issues

Racism, racial discrimination, and xenophobia do exist in Japan. The effects of these are felt by the Buraku people, the Ainu, the people of Okinawa, people from former Japanese colonies such as the Koreans, Chinese, and their descendants, other foreigners, and migrant workers who have come from all over Asia. All concerned actors, including the Japanese government, must acknowledge the existence of these groups, who have been rendered invisible, or whose existence has not been properly recognized.

Highlighting structural discrimination and oppression is an integral component of all of IMADR’s activities aimed at eliminating racism. This includes the often forgotten gender perspective, as a cross cutting issue which impacts upon all other themes. Being aware that minority women, in particular, suffer from multiple discrimination by virtue of their combined identities as minorities and as women, IMADR-JC is involved in various activities focused on addressing the issues faced specifically by indigenous Ainu, Buraku, Zainichi Korean (see note below) and Okinawan women.

Voices of protest can be heard when the governor of Tokyo and other government officials make discriminatory remarks, or when violence and threats are made against Korean children resident in Japan. There are people in Japan who experience discrimination on a daily basis, such as being refused entry to certain shops. It is becoming clear that many people, thrust into these situations, are powerless to do anything about it. Japan’s laws and its system do not come to their aid.

On December 26, 2004, countless lives throughout Asia, including Indonesia, Thailand, Sri Lanka and Southern India were suddenly stolen away by a tsunami. While vast amounts of emergency aid came in from various foreign governments, international organizations and NGO groups, activists and grassroots movements were already involved in relief efforts on the ground, together with the affected communities.