Karl Ichiro Akiya facts for kids
Karl Ichiro Akiya (1909–2001) was a Japanese-American writer and activist. He worked hard to improve society and fought for the rights of workers. Akiya was also a respected thinker and leader in the Japanese-American community.
A Life of Activism
Karl Ichiro Akiya was born in 1909 in San Francisco, California. When he was six years old, he moved to Japan for his education. Even as a student, he cared deeply about politics.
Akiya moved to the United States because he disagreed with Japanese militarism. This was a time before World War II when Japan's military had a lot of power.
During World War II
During World War II, many Japanese-Americans faced difficult times. After Executive Order 9066 was signed, Akiya was sent to a special camp. This camp was called the Topaz War Relocation Center in Utah.
His Work and Writings
Akiya was a member of several important groups. These included the Japanese American Citizens League and the United Furniture Workers of America. He also joined the Communist Party USA, a political group.
He wrote for many different newspapers and magazines. Akiya contributed to the Hokubei Shimpo, which was a Japanese-language newspaper in the U.S. He also helped start a Japanese-language magazine called The New York Bungei in 1959. His essays, stories, and his own life story were published there.
In 1987, Akiya was honored with the Martin Luther King Award of New York State. This award recognized his important work for civil rights.
