Kazu Iijima

Kazu Iijima was a Japanese American activist and community leader. Born in Seattle, Washington on May 29, 1914, Iijima was the second of six children. His parents had immigrated from Japan and operated a small grocery store in Seattle.

Iijima grew up in a community that faced discrimination and racism, but he was determined to make a positive impact. He attended the University of Washington, where he became involved in student government and other extracurricular activities. After graduation, he worked for the Japanese American Citizens League (JACL), a national organization that advocated for the rights of Japanese Americans.

During World War II, Iijima was forcibly removed from his home and sent to a Japanese American internment camp in Minidoka, Idaho. Despite the hardships he faced, he continued to work for the JACL and helped to establish a chapter of the organization at the camp. He also served as a teacher and mentor to other inmates, providing them with education and leadership skills.

After the war, Iijima moved to New York City and became involved in the labor movement. He worked for the International Ladies' Garment Workers' Union and was active in the civil rights movement, advocating for the rights of minority workers.

In the 1970s, Iijima became involved in the Asian American arts movement. He was a member of the Yellow Pearl theater company, which produced plays that explored the experiences of Asian Americans. He also wrote and performed his own music, using his talents to raise awareness of social justice issues.

Throughout his life, Iijima remained committed to his community and to the fight for justice and equality. He passed away on August 4, 2005 at the age of 91, leaving behind a legacy of activism and service.