Question from Readers:
Was there sexual violence during the Showa era? I would like to know about the situation at that time.
Sexual Violence in the Showa Era and Its Background
Indeed, sexual violence existed during the Showa era. Unlike today, society at that time found it difficult to openly discuss issues related to sexuality. Women often remained silent about their experiences to protect their honor and social standing. In that sense, many more people likely suffered in silence compared to now. In my studies of law, I investigated the legal
system and social climate of that time. One particularly striking aspect was the existence of the “Akasen” system, which was in place until 1958. This system legalized places providing sexual services, meaning a kind of openly acknowledged sex industry existed back then, but many women faced harsh realities behind it.
The Relationship Between Media and Society
Additionally, the media’s stance during that era is of interest. The media had a strong tendency to “cover up” unpleasant issues, so reports of sexual violence were rare. It’s not unreasonable to feel that more serious content may be hidden beneath what we currently know. Indeed, when observing the reporting of certain incidents, one can sense that information may be manipulated by political pressure or public opinion. As a society, we should adopt a more critical perspective in addressing such issues.
Personal Reflection and Consideration
I work in a judicial scrivener’s office, where I sometimes receive inquiries related to sexual violence. Each time, I feel deeply the pain of the individuals involved and the lack of understanding from society. For instance, when a woman bravely sought advice, her expression and words conveyed profound sadness and anger. In those moments, I strongly wish to be of help. Looking back, the Showa era had different values and social structures, but the pain and suffering of people remain unchanged. What we can do now is to not ignore those voices and work towards deepening our understanding. Listening to this story, you may have felt something. Are there people around you who have encountered such issues? If you have any advice or experiences to share, please feel free to leave a comment. By sharing our opinions and experiences, I hope we can create opportunities for society to improve, even if just a little.
