BFI London Film Festival Special Episode - Shiori Ito - Journalist & Filmmaker of Black Box Diaries

TW: The following discusses themes of SA.

Today, in a BFI London Film Festival Special Bonus Episode, I'm joined by Japanese Journalist, Filmmaker & Women's Rights Activist, Shiori Ito.

In this short but insightful conversation, we discuss her recent documentary 'Black Box Diaries', which recently premiered at the BFI London Film Festival and will have it's UK cinema release on the 25th of October 2024.

Shiori is known for her role in challenging Japan's legal and cultural attitudes toward sexual violence. In 2015, Shiori accused high-profile journalist Noriyuki Yamaguchi of raping her while she was unconscious, a case that brought significant attention to issues of consent and sexual assault in Japan. After the authorities declined to prosecute, Shiori filed a civil lawsuit and won in 2019, becoming a symbol for the MeToo movement in Japan.

Her work has sparked broader conversations about gender inequality, victim-blaming, and the need for legal reforms in Japan's handling of sexual violence.

In 2020, Shiori was named one of TIME magazine's 100 Most Influential People, recognising her bravery in confronting Japan's culture of silence around sexual violence.

Shiori is also author of 'Black Box' (2017), a memoir detailing her personal experience of sexual assault and her fight for justice.

In 2018, Shiori also directed the documentary 'Japan's Secret Shame', which aired on the BBC.

Shiori continues to advocate for survivors and raise awareness through her investigative journalism and public speaking.

If you or anyone you know is affected by the themes discussed above or in the podcast, here are some useful resources:

National Hotlines - Victim Connect Resource Center

National Sexual Assault Hotline: Confidential 24/7 Support | RAINN

Sexual Assault and Rape Resources | Joyful Heart Foundation

Find Help | National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC)

Want to talk? | Rape Crisis England & Wales

Help after rape and sexual assault - NHS

The national domestic abuse and sexual violence support line - 3919 - is now available in 185 languages - Women For Women France

Information and support - Mind

Samaritans | Every life lost to suicide is a tragedy | Here to listen