The earthquake and tsunami in Japan have sent emotional shockwaves as far as Islington. People from the Japanese community in the borough have spoken about their devastation at the destruction in their home country and their fears for family and friends.
Others have expressed their grief through leaping into action toraise funds to help their struggling compatriots. When student Kimihiro Munekata, 22, who lives in Old Street, saw images of Sendai Airport engulfed by the tsunami the situation really struck home.
“At first I was not worried, there are so many earthquakes in my area. But my father works at the airport, so when I saw the pictures I thought he could be dead,” he said. “I only managed to get in touch with my family the day afterwards and I found out my dad had luckily been working away from the airport when it hit. But I’m very worried about a friend of mine, I still can’t get in contact with him.
“It’s so sad to see the places I know down by the sea totally destroyed, it’s just awful.” Junko Rathmell, an international funding assistant who also lives near Old Street, fought off tears as she described how seeing the destruction prompted her to try to help the relief effort.
“I’ve cried a lot since it happened. I feel guilty about not being there helping my Mum, but I console myself by trying to do what I can. I’m lucky that my family is okay but my friend’s parents are still missing. I’ve been trying to help English people near to the nuclear accident by tweeting translations of information in Japanese.
“I’m so proud to be Japanese so I want to do everything I can. I’m helping my friend organise an online auction. Were getting as many people as possible to donate goods that can be auctioned,” she said.
The “Auction for Japan” Facebook page has already seen dozens of items of clothing and jewellery donated.
Buddist humanitarian organisation Tzu Chi, who are currently carrying out aid relief in Japan, are holding an event called “Save the Earth” that will raise funds for their work. It will take place at the Islington Chinese Association in upper Holloway this Friday.
To donate or bid for items in the “Auction for Japan” visit the Facebook page.
