BLACK LIVES MATTER #FUKUOKA

The Black Lives Matter movement, active since 2013, was reignited in late May after the killing of George Floyd in the U.S. This sparked protests and demonstrations all around the world. Closest to home was the BLM Peaceful March in Fukuoka’s Tenjin Chuo Park on June 21st. Bako Nguasong and Athena Lisane organized the event to raise awareness of BLM and to show solidarity with the struggles of Black Americans. They began with speeches in English and Japanese about the history and importance of BLM, and gave safety guidelines regarding COVID-19. Attendees then marched, holding handmade signs and chanting phrases such as “Black Lives Matter” and “Say Their Names.” After the march, organizers wrapped up the event and opened the floor for people to share their experiences.

2

1 Supporters walk the streets of Fukuoka as part of the Black Lives Matter Fukuoka Peaceful March. (Photo: J.S.)

2 Three kimono-clad women gather in Tenjin Chuo Park in Fukuoka. (Photo: Scott Andrada)

3 Marchers and onlookers hold up signs in support of BLM Fukuoka. (Photo: Scott Andra)

4 A dislay at Tenjin Chuo Park shows bilingual English-Japanese information about Black lives lost to police brutality. Pictured here are George Floyd and Breonna Taylor. (Photo: J.S.)

5 Attendees display Japanese signs for BLM. Left: “No justice, no peace.” Right: “Racism is born from ignorance.”(Photo: J.S.)

6 Two marchers kneel with their signs. The center one reads “Say Their Names” and lists name of Black victims of police violence. (Photo: J.S.)

5

3