Heartbeat of Struggle: The Revolutionary Life of Yuri Kochiyama (Critical American Studies)

"Heartbeat of Struggle: The Revolutionary Life of Yuri Kochiyama" unveils the compelling journey of an often-overlooked icon of social justice, Yuri Kochiyama. Born into a seemingly typical Japanese American family, Kochiyama's idyllic life was shattered by the horrors of internment during World War II. This pivotal experience awakened her to the pervasive injustices surrounding her, setting her on a lifelong quest for equality and human rights. Moving to New York and inspired by the vibrant Black movement in Harlem, Kochiyama's activism took flight alongside figures like Malcolm X, whose death she witnessed and which marked a profound moment in civil rights history. Author Diane C. Fujino delves deep into Kochiyama's transformation from a patriotic youth to a fervent activist, challenging racial, gender, and cultural norms. Published on April 24, 2005, this biography is a treasure trove of inspiration, making it an essential read for college students engaged in studies of racial justice, gender equality, and voting rights. Through extensive research and interviews, Fujino not only chronicles the life of a revolutionary but also ignites a call to action for readers to reflect on how they too can contribute to social change.