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UMass Amherst will host Akemi Kochiyama-Ladson, co-founder of the Yuri Kochiyama Solidarity Project (YKSP), for a presentation and discussion titled “From Harlem to Bandung: Understanding Our Shared Histories and Struggles,” on Thursday, March 26, from 5:30–8 p.m. in Room 168C of the Campus Center.

Kochiyama-Ladson is a writer, scholar-activist and proud third generation Harlemite whose work explores cross movement solidarity and reclaiming history through archives and self-education. She is the granddaughter of renowned civil rights and human rights activist Yuri Kochiyama, for whom the Yuri Kochiyama Cultural Center at UMass Amherst is named, and she is co-editor of Kochiyama’s memoir, “Passing It On.”

Through educational initiatives and community partnerships, the YKSP continues Kochiyama’s legacy of building broad coalitions in support of social justice and human rights. The organization brings together students, educators, artists and organizers to learn from one another, cultivate relationships and build collective power. At YKSP, Kochiyama-Ladson leads the YKSP Freedom School and education programs centered in history, culture and archives. 

In her talk, Kochiyama-Ladson will address how attacks on democracy, free speech and civil rights can have long lasting impacts on marginalized communities. The interactive event will also include an audience Q&A and small-group discussions focused on collaboration, collective action, and the future of movements for justice and liberation.

The event is free and open to all UMass community members, and registration is requested. Dinner will be provided.

This event is sponsored by the Yuri Kochiyama Cultural Center, CMASS, the Office of Equity and Inclusion, and the W.E.B. Du Bois Afro-American Studies Department.