As we start 2009, let's recharge the batteries by reviewing last year's good news. Here is my list of top human rights advancements for Japan in 2009, in ascending order:
(Dec. 21, 2007, but close enough): The plaintiff is a Chinese-born professor at Japan Women's University who sued for damages on behalf of his Japanese grade-school-age daughter. Abused by classmates for her Chinese roots, she suffered at school and was diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder. Professor U took the parents of the bullies to court and won.
Why this matters: In an era when elementary schools are seeing the byproduct of Japan's explosion in international marriages, this ruling sets a positive precedent both for insensitive local boards of education and parents who want to protect their kids.