Skip to main content
WorldVoice 360

Shigeko Sasamori, Hiroshima Survivor and Peace Advocate, Passes Away at 92

Shigeko Sasamori, who lived through the catastrophic Hiroshima bombing and dedicated her life to promoting peace, has died at 92, leaving an enduring legacy.

By Richard SandomirSource: nytimes.com1 min read
Shigeko Sasamori, Hiroshima Survivor and Peace Advocate, Passes Away at 92
Image via nytimes.com

In brief

Shigeko Sasamori, a Hiroshima survivor severely injured by the atomic bomb at 13, has died at 92 on December 15 at her home in Marina del Rey, California. Confirmed by her son, Norman Cousins Sasamori, her impactful journey began on August 6, 1945, when she was among students clearing debris in Hiroshima prior to the bombing. Despite the deep scars inflicted by her traumatic experience, Sasamori devoted her life to educating others on the impact of nuclear war, urging future generations to prevent such devastation. Notably, she shared her experiences before a Senate subcommittee in 1980, advocating for peace without animosity toward the United States. Her death comes shortly after the Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to a Japanese organization of atomic bomb survivors, honoring their ongoing fight against nuclear weapons and highlighting the enduring relevance of Sasamori's message.

In her own words, she urged, “I have a mission to tell people that this should not happen again,” emphasizing her commitment to raising awareness regarding the horrors she witnessed as a child. Throughout her life, she transcended her suffering by serving as a nurse's aide and sharing her story with various audiences, including students and lawmakers, fostering a dialogue on nuclear disarmament and humanitarian consequences. As her legacy continues, Shigeko Sasamori stands as a poignant reminder of the need to confront the shadows of the past for a safer future.

Topics

More on this story