The Minamata Disease Memorial Service is scheduled for May 1, 2023, marking the 69th anniversary since the official recognition of the disease, which has had devastating impacts on the residents of Minamata, Japan. On April 21, the organizing committee, which consists of patient groups among others, confirmed the date for this year's memorial ceremony to be held in Kumamoto Prefecture, Minamata City. The event aims to honor both certified and non-certified victims of the disease, with the committee ensuring inclusivity and recognition of all those affected.
This year, the memorial service will introduce new elements aimed at enhancing the commemoration's poignancy. Alongside the presentation of memorial plaques, there will be illustrations submitted by local elementary and junior high school students, reflecting sentiments of remembrance and hopes for the future. Four illustrations have been selected: three depict themes of prayer and one symbolizes the traditional 'utasebune' (a fishing boat associated with the region). This collaborative art project not only aims to pay homage to the victims but also serves to educate younger generations about the impact of Minamata Disease.
Last year’s service was marred by issues during discussions with government officials, particularly concerning the disruption of microphones by Ministry of the Environment staff. This incident raised concerns among committee members about the organization of the memorial service and its execution. To avoid such setbacks, the committee has voiced their demands for improvements, including ensuring ample time for discussions during the ceremony. They have expressed their intention to relay these suggestions to the Ministry of the Environment to facilitate smoother event proceedings.
The participation of local students has been particularly significant this year, with around 18 pieces submitted for the prayer illustrations, which were collected during the public call for entries from July to October last year. The committee emphasized the importance of the children’s artwork, recognizing how thoughtfully they approached the subject matter related to Minamata disease. Committee members noted, "Children’s works exhibited careful thought about Minamata disease, and it’s important to display these sentiments," reflecting the desire to keep the memories alive.
Alongside the illustrations, plans are underway to possibly display all original artwork at the Minamata Bay Disease Museum, where they would be accessible to the public. This initiative is part of the committee’s broader mission to not only honor the past but to continuously educate the public about the environmental and health impacts of industrial pollution, particularly the tragedy of Minamata disease.
Access to the memorial service is typically open to the general public, drawing individuals from various backgrounds who come to pay their respects and reflect on the suffering caused by this public health disaster. The event also serves as remembrance for the families affected and as a rallying point for advocacy against future industrial negligence. By linking the personal stories of loss with broader themes of environmental justice, the memorial becomes both personal and political.
Despite the challenges faced during last year’s ceremony, the organizing committee remains optimistic about this year's service. They are committed to creating an environment of remembrance, healing, and reflection, where lessons from the past can guide future endeavors to handle similar issues with more sensitivity and care. The goal is to nurture connection between the past and present as community members come together to mourn and celebrate the lives altered by Minamata disease.
With the upcoming event, there is renewed hope and determination within the community as they prepare to acknowledge the legacy of Minamata disease. The addition of new visual tributes and careful planning to address previous shortcomings reflects the community’s resilience and commitment to honoring all victims, certified or not.
The Minamata Disease Memorial Service stands as not just a remembrance of loss but also as the community's pledge to pursue safety, health, and environmental responsibility moving forward. Through education, advocacy, and collective memory, they seek to prevent the tragedies of yesterday from repeating the history of tomorrow.