SHIFTING PERCEPTIONS OF YAKUZA
While there are former yakuza who have become famous authors, lawyers and pastors, the Japanese people generally do not easily accept those who were in jail, whether they were yakuza or not.
Many places in Japan like public baths and swimming pools still ban those with tattoos, given that yakuza are heavily tattooed.
This is despite the yakuza’s power and ranks dwindling after decades of crackdowns.
From more than 90,000 members three decades ago, their numbers plummeted to about 22,000 as of the end of 2022, according to the National Police Agency.
Mr Shindo stressed that society should give ex-convicts, including the yakuza, a chance to restart their lives as they have already paid their dues in prison.
“I am extremely happy. A former convict can act so big and speak in front of many people. I can give a hand to other lives. Even if it’s in a small way, I am really happy to be able to do what I am (doing),” he said.
