In a powerful display of community solidarity, protests erupted on Thursday in Okinawa and Tokyo over alleged sexual assaults by U.S. servicemen stationed in Okinawa. Around 30 residents gathered in silence in front of the Okinawa prefectural government, holding flowers 🌸 and signs that read "Never tolerate sexual violence" and "We cannot turn a blind eye to this."
Local authorities revealed that two U.S. Marines in their 20s have been referred to prosecutors on suspicion of separate sexual assaults. Protester Megumi Kamiya summed up the community's anger when she said, "Not again?"
Critics argue that the joint patrols by U.S. military and local police, initiated last week in entertainment districts, seem more performative than preventive. Organizer Masayuki Oku questioned, "How can we call this Japan-U.S. security when the number of victims of sexual violence continues to increase?"
Okinawa, hosting 70% of all U.S. military bases in Japan despite representing just 0.6% of the country’s land area, remains a focal point for these serious issues. The protests highlight a growing demand for effective protection and accountability—echoing the broader global awakening among young adults and early professionals who use technology and social media to voice change. 💪
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Rallies against sexual assaults by U.S. servicemen held in Japan
cgtn.com
