Yuri Kochiyama Turns 95: 6 Interesting Things to Know
On Thursday, Google celebrated the 95th birthday of Yuri Kochiyama, an Asian American who was known around the world for her dedication to fight for human rights, injustice, and racism.
While Kochiyama passed away in 2014 due to natural causes according to her family, her legacy lives on and many activist groups across the globe continue to honor the work she has done in fighting against inequality. Below are some interesting things that some may not have known of the woman who befriended Malcolm X.
1. An advocate for prisoners
Triggered by the memory of her father who was taken into custody shortly after the Pearl Harbor attacks, Mary Yuriko Nakahara decided to become an advocate not only for racism and inequality but for prisoners as well. According to the Los Angeles Times, Kochiyama helped organize calls for the reconsideration of charges on prisoners which were considered to be motivated by political causes.
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2. The first lady student elected in her high school's student council
During her younger years, Kochiyama already had a knack for writing and leadership. Historians believe that she is the first girl to have been elected into San Pedro High School's student council during her time.
3. A sunday school teacher
Growing up, Kochiyama developed a profound love for the society and while she was busy with school, she became a Sunday School teacher at her local Presbyterian church.
4. Arrested in 1963
After seeing the injustices that the government practiced in terms of hiring employees, Kochiyama joined a group of protesters to call on the government regarding discriminatory hiring practices. At that time, she was surrounded by black Americans who felt it was meet to let the government know about their side of the story. Malcolm X arrived to show his support and since then, they have become good friends.
5. Same birthday with Malcolm X
While four years older than the prominent activist who led many Black Americans into the battle for equality, Kochiyama shares the same birthday with Malcolm X. Kochiyama should have turned 95 on Thursday, while Malcolm X should have turned 91.
6. Witnessed Malcolm X's assassination
According to a 2014 report by the TIME Magazine, Kochiyama was also known for appearing in the controversial and heart-breaking photo of Malcolm X after he was assassinated in February 21, 1965. In the photo, Kochiyama cradles Malcolm Little's head as the beloved activist and minister was surrounded by his bodyguards.
