A Harrowing Incident and the Evolution of Japan’s Approach to Sexual Harassment
In January 1986, a disturbing incident unfolded on a train platform in Japan that would later become a pivotal moment in the country’s understanding of sexual harassment. A drunken middle-aged man began harassing a 41-year-old woman, following her relentlessly and physically touching her. Despite her attempts to shake him off, he continued his aggressive behavior, eventually grabbing her by the collar. In a moment of desperation, she pushed him away, leading to his fall onto the tracks and into the path of an oncoming train. The man was killed, and the woman was arrested for causing injury resulting in death.
This case sparked widespread public debate and highlighted the lack of awareness around what is now recognized as sexual harassment in Japan. Masayo Niwa, a key figure in this movement, has since played a significant role in translating and introducing the concept of sexual harassment to Japan through her work with the “Santama association to consider work and sex discrimination.”
Bystanders Watched and Laughed
According to court records, the incident took place at Nishi-Funabashi Station in Funabashi, Chiba Prefecture, around 11 p.m. The woman, who was being harassed by a drunk man, sought help from bystanders but was met with indifference. Instead of intervening, people watched and laughed, leaving her feeling vulnerable and isolated.
The woman, in her testimony, expressed her fear that the situation could escalate further if left unchecked. She described how the man grabbed her coat collar and refused to let go, prompting her to push him again. This action resulted in his fall onto the tracks, where he was struck by a train.
The Court’s Verdict: Not Guilty
Despite the tragic outcome, the court ruled in favor of the woman, stating that her actions were “unavoidable to protect her own safety.” The ruling criticized the notion that the woman should have simply run away, emphasizing the societal failure to address the man’s behavior.
The verdict was seen as a turning point, drawing attention to the broader issue of how women are treated in public spaces and the need for greater awareness and protection against harassment.
A New Perspective on Sexual Harassment
At the time, the concept of “sexual harassment” was virtually unknown in Japan. Niwa, who was a schoolteacher and active member of the Santama association, noted that the trial brought many women together for the first time. She recalled the emotional impact of the event, saying that it marked a shift in how women perceived their experiences.
The Santama association, formed in 1985, focused on addressing issues related to gender discrimination in the workplace. Their initial efforts included surveys of part-time working women, revealing instances of harassment such as being forced to serve tea or taking menstrual leave.
Defining the Unnamed Discomfort
Niwa and her colleagues began to recognize a common thread among these stories—a sense of unease and discomfort that was difficult to articulate. They felt that there was a need to give voice to this unnamed struggle.
A breakthrough came when a member of the association brought back a book titled “Stopping Sexual Harassment: A Handbook” from the United States. This publication introduced the term “sexual harassment” as a way to describe unwanted advances in the workplace. For Niwa, this was a revelation.
Women Unite, Men Ridicule
In 1988, the Santama association translated and published the book under the title “Japanese edition: handbook for stopping sexual harassment.” The book emphasized the seriousness of the issue, highlighting how women faced unwanted advances in various settings.
However, the term “sekuhara” (sexual harassment) was often met with ridicule from men, who dismissed it as trivial. Niwa recalled the challenges of conveying the true meaning of the term, noting that it was a word that united women in sharing their suffering.
Collecting Testimonies
To further raise awareness, the association launched a campaign to gather testimonies from working women. With the slogan “Ask 10,000 people,” they distributed questionnaires across Japan, collecting over 7,000 responses.
These accounts revealed alarming statistics, with over 90% of respondents reporting unpleasant experiences such as being groped or subjected to inappropriate comments. Many detailed personal stories of harassment, including being forced into unwanted relationships or facing retaliation for speaking out.
The Impact of the Movement
By 1991, the association published “Testimonies of 6,500 women,” summarizing the findings and highlighting the prevalence of harassment in the workplace. Niwa became convinced that no woman was immune to such experiences.
Today, the #MeToo movement and other social initiatives have brought renewed attention to the issue of sexual harassment. However, victims still face challenges such as slander and secondary harm, particularly in the digital age.
Reflections on the Meaning of ‘Sexual Harassment’
Niwa continues to advocate for a deeper understanding of the term “sexual harassment,” emphasizing that it is not about the victim but about the perpetrator and the society that enables such behavior. She hopes that society will reflect on the significance of this term and work towards creating a safer environment for all.
