lioness in japan

…Is very much alive and well. While I was perusing the Japan Times this morning, I ran across a
column that pointed out foreigners’ rights when we are checked randomly by a policeman or employer.

I knew that a new procedure at the airport was recently put in place — finger-printing and a mug shot is a must for all foreigners entering Japan, even those who are Permanent Residents. This caused an uproar in the media, or rather, English language newspapers (a paltry two publications). The U.S. stipulates this security measure but does not put PRs through this, which cemented detractors’ outrage at this blatant discrimination.

Policy-makers claim this is to keep Japan safe. In other words, Japan is not safe from foreigners. The counter argument to that is a lot of crime is committed by Japanese themselves, particularly acts of “terrorism” (recall: gas-poisoning attack in Tokyo’s subways). So what are they doing about that?

I love Japan for its many amazing things but this is one sore point that makes me think again about living here for longer than a few years. I’ve been checked before by policemen while walking down the street. Honestly, since those experiences, I’ve tried to blend in more consciously. I don’t think I went out of my way to do this but I think I dress better here than I ever did in Singapore. The weather is another factor, too. I just don’t wear slippers or sandals anymore.

Still, I felt a somersault of anger when I read today’s newspaper. I’ve mentioned this to a student before and he insisted that Japan is just trying to be on par with international standards. I tried not to argue back and left it as that. He also informed me that this news never reached Japanese media. Here is yet another example how isolated the Japanese can be. That’s a harsh statement but it’s a fact.

Related posts:

1. Are foreign women safe in Japan?
2. Teaching in Japan: What Japanese students are like
3. A snapshot of Japan

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