Giichi Nomura

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Giichi Nomura
BornOctober 20, 1914
DiedDecember 28, 2008
NationalityJapanese
CitizenshipJapan
OccupationFisheries executive
Known forHokkaido Utari Association

Giichi Nomura (野村義一, October 20, 1914 – December 28, 2008) was an advocate and activist for the Ainu people of Japan. Born in Shiraoi, Hokkaido, Nomura, of Ainu descent, became a career fisheries executive. In 1960 he joined the Hokkaido Utari Association, an Ainu advocacy group. Nomura represented the organization in several positions, including executive director from 1964 to 1996.[1]

In 1992, Nomura spoke at the United Nations concerning Ainu issues including Japan's policy of forced assimilation. Nomura spoke of the Japanese government's attitude towards the Ainu people: "In the eyes of the government, we are a people whose existence must not be admitted."[2]

Nomura died in Noboribetsu, Hokkaido on December 28, 2008.

References[edit]

  1. ^ Asahi Shimbun, "Ainu activist Nomura dies at 94", December 30, 2008.
  2. ^ Metropolis, "r.i.p", January 30, 2009, p. 7.