We have worked with a small women’s collective in Kyrgystan to produce the first Asian American hero product representing Yuri Kochiyama (1921-2014), Japanese American social justice and human rights activist of the 1960s and beyond. Each ornament is handmade and inspired by the famous photograph of Kochiyama speaking at a rally. Each one varies in style and execution, but they all carry the spirit of Kochiyama and the artisans who created them. Your purchase supports empowerment for the women who make them and Fair Trade. Made from wool felt. Approximately 6.5"H
When she was a young woman, the U.S. government evacuated her family to a converted horse stable at the Santa Anita Assembly Center before moving them to the War Relocation Authority camp in Jerome, Arkansas. They remained in camp for three-years during World War II along with 120,000 Japanese Americans incarcerated throughout the United States under Executive Order 9066.
Kochiyama began her deep involvement in social justice and human rights movements in the 1960s. She championed numerous causes, including the anti-apartheid movement, ethnic studies, Puerto Rican independence, the rights of political prisoners, and nuclear disarmament. She was a supporter and friend of Malcolm X and joined his efforts as a member of the Organization of Afro-American Unity to fight for racial justice.
"Keep expanding your horizon, decolonize your mind and cross borders."
--Yuri Kochiyama
Exclusive to JANM!
(Photo courtesy of the Kochiyama family)
Books:
Passing It On
Heartbeat Of Struggle
