DC

16-Gender_in_Japan

Gender Issues in Japan

  • The discussion centers on the cultural struggles surrounding gender in Japan.

  • Focus on Shiori Ito's story as a representation of larger gender dynamics in Japan.

Shiori Ito: Background

  • Born in 1989, a pivotal time in Japanese history post-economic bubble.

  • Studied journalism in New York and became a reporter for Thomson Reuters before becoming a freelancer.

  • Interned with Noriyuki Yamaguchi, a prominent journalist.

Allegations Against Noriyuki Yamaguchi

  • In 2015, after a party where she was inebriated, Ito alleges that Yamaguchi raped her.

  • Contrasts U.S./Canada police handling of similar cases; Ito initially faces disbelief and skepticism.

  • Alarmingly, evidence of the assault is not made accessible to her, highlighting systemic failings.

  • Police claimed they would arrest Yamaguchi, but charges were eventually dropped.

Media and Public Reaction

  • Initially, the media did not cover Ito's story; she later addressed the public for support.

  • Faced harassment and death threats for speaking out.

  • Became a prominent figure in Japan's Me Too movement, using English phrases in activism.

  • Filed a lawsuit against Yamaguchi in 2017 and ultimately won a landmark case, albeit with limited financial restitution.

Cultural Context

  • Lack of statistics on partner abuse in Japan; historically viewed as a domestic issue.

  • Four key areas monitored in global gender gap studies: economic participation, education, political empowerment, health.

  • Japan ranks poorly (120th) in the gender gap index, below various other nations despite high education and longevity among women.

Employment Disparities

  • High educational attainment but low workforce participation among women (18% of workforce despite 50% of degrees).

  • Gender disparity prevalent in job sectors; men dominate leadership positions while women often relegated to service roles.

  • Cultural expectations hinder women’s career progression due to family planning beliefs leading to discrimination in hiring for critical fields such as medicine.

The Role of Tradition and Myth

  • Discussion of Confucian values and traditional gender hierarchies impacting contemporary gender roles.

  • Traditional myths, like that of Izanagi and Izanami, reinforce male precedence which influences societal norms surrounding gender dynamics.

  • Myths deeply inform cultural perceptions and attitudes toward men, women, and their societal roles.

Transformations and Challenges

  • While progress is being made (as highlighted by Ito’s story), deeply embedded cultural beliefs still pose challenges.

  • Gender relations and perceptions in Japan are intricately linked to historical narratives and myths.

  • Requires a broader reassessment of gender roles and structures to facilitate meaningful change in society.