Killing over 10,000 people, the 8.9 magnitude quake and tsunami has been called by the prime minister “Japan’s worst crisis since World War II.”
This crisis, as reported by New York Times, has left thousands homeless and millions without water, power, heat, or transportation.
Diablo Valley College student Yumi Sato, 21, says that she is constantly watching the live broadcast and worrying about her family members and friends who are suffering.
It was this worry for her friends and family, in addition to a desire to help the victims of the tsunami and quake, that has galvanized Sato to create a Japanese Relief Fund Group.
Sato, who has family living in Sendai, the city closest to the epicenter, has recently received news that her father has lost over 45 coworkers.
Not all the students in her group have lost close family friends, but without exception, all have friends of friends who have died in the recent catastrophe.
Eriko Takamine, 21, international relations major, said, “I have not lost anyone, but my friends’ friends have died, and so I am definitely personally affected.”
On Thursday March 17, Yuto Fukumoto, president of the Japanese Culture Club, will present this proposed group to ICC and attempt to get other clubs such as the International Students Club or the Taiwanese Student Club involved.
However, this group’s purpose is not just to raise funds, but also to raise awareness about the crisis. Upon achieving approval from ICC, students will begin passing out informational flyers.
The means through which they plan on obtaining funds is by placing donation boxes in the Student Life Offices, and also, reaching out to nearby restaurants and convenience stores such as Korean BBQ or Quickly.
The funds will be sent to Red Cross, who will ultimately spend it on food, water, and assisting the victims of the tsunami and earthquake.
For further on how to get involved or to donate money towards this cause, contact Yuto Fukumoto at [email protected]
Opinions editor Sean Wilkey contributed to this article.