Hansen’s Disease in Japan: The Lingering Legacy of Discrimination
Twenty years have passed since the repeal of the law mandating isolation of Hansen’s Disease (leprosy) patients in Japan.
The government has recognized the injustice of the isolation policy and has moved to compensate the victims, but many former patients and family members still sense discrimination and prejudice.
Promoting Inclusion of People with Hansen’s Disease
My life has been a struggle. I was a crybaby when I was little, but I became the strong person I am now by overcoming my sorrows and hardships one by one.
So declares 89-year-old Hirasawa Yasuji, a recovered Hansen’s disease (leprosy) patient residing at Tama Zenshōen in western Tokyo.
I’ve lived my life up to now with pride in having been born as a human being. Hansen’s disease patients and those who have recovered from the disease are striving twice as hard as other people every day.
Hirasawa has lived at this sanatorium for people affected by leprosy since he was 14.
Author's summary: Hansen's disease still sparks discrimination in Japan.