Black Box

Shiori Ito's Black Box recounts her experience of sexual assault and the challenges faced in seeking justice in Japan's legal system.

In Black Box, journalist Shiori Ito shares her deeply personal memoir of survival and resilience after being raped by Noriyuki Yamaguchi, a prominent TV journalist in Japan. This courageous account not only details her traumatic experience but also highlights the societal and legal challenges faced by victims of sexual assault in a culture where such topics are often silenced. Ito's journey from victim to advocate reflects the struggles many endure when seeking justice in a system that frequently dismisses their pain.

The narrative unfolds with Ito's harrowing decision to report the assault, only to be met with a police response that labeled her case as a 'black box,' indicating that it was unprosecutable due to its private nature. This phrase becomes a powerful metaphor throughout the book, symbolizing the numerous barriers victims encounter within Japan's legal and investigative frameworks. As Ito navigates the complexities of her situation, she reveals the pervasive culture of victim-shaming and the institutional failures that hinder justice for many.

Upon its release, Black Box became a pivotal work in the #MeToo movement in Japan, igniting discussions around sexual violence and the need for systemic change. Ito's story, which gained international attention and was featured in the BBC documentary Japan’s Secret Shame, serves as a call to action for society to confront these issues head-on. The book not only chronicles her personal battle but also stands as a testament to the power of storytelling in advocating for change.