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Third eye opened

Posted Jul 18 2007

By Daniel D. Zarazua

Ron Young and I hung out a few times while in Japan and had several conversations and adventures. I thought it would be good to capture some impressions from a Black male in Japan as that’s a perspective I’ve not come across too often. Ron wasn’t one to bite his tongue and he was very open about his thoughts. He’s an artist and teacher currently based in St. Louis, MO and spent three weeks in Japan as part of the Japan Fulbright Memorial Foundation teacher program. At the end of this interview check for responses by students at Oakland Unity High School.

My opinion is that it does not sound like it is hard to get used to Japan. But there is a lot of struggling to get a job and a home. It seems  like the people get use to the way everyone is.

Different treatment because of skin color sounds mean. The interview had its ups and downs. It had a lot of details that helped me understand Japan a bit more.

I liked that there is a lot of western influence in Japan. I thought that Japan would have more influences from their own culture. But it seems like they're doing what others are doing instead of doing their own thing. But still, it is good that everyone tries new things.

How is the racism in Japan similar to some in the St. Louis? How is the racism similar to any other place you have visited? Do jobs in Japan pay more than others you have worked? What is the differences in Japan and the place you use to live? What is similar? 

Here in the U.S. there is some types of racism but more stereotypes. For example, many think that Mexicans only have jobs selling fruit or picking them. Also that they work in construction or gardening.-Leticia M.

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