Marsha Aizumi Explained

Marsha Aizumi is an American author, educator, and LGBTQ+ activist. She co-founded the first PFLAG chapter for Asian-Pacific Islanders.

Activism

Aizumi was motivated to improve schools for LGBTQ youth after seeing the harassment her transgender son faced. She founded the first PFLAG chapter for Asian-Pacific Islanders. The chapter began hosting events for specific ethnic groups, with Aizumi leading projects for the Japanese community such as the 2014 and 2016 Okaeri conferences.^{[1] [2]} With the Los Angeles LGBT Center, Aizumi created the Courageous Conversations initiative to educate school district officials on LGBT youth issues and bullying.^[3] In 2012, she co-authored a book with her son. In 2015, Aizumi received a VH1 Trailblazer Honor for her allyship to the transgender community.

Personal life

Aizumi and her husband adopted Ishinomaki-born Aiden Aizumi as a baby.^[4] Her child first identified as a lesbian before transitioning from female to male.

Selected works

• Book: Aizumi, Marsha. Two Spirits, One Heart: A Mother, Her Transgender Son, and Their Journey to Love and Acceptance. Aizumi. Aiden. 2012. Peony Press. 978-0-615-68171-9. en. 840932684.

Notes and References

1. Web site: Ryan. Hugh. April 2, 2016. In California, A 'Welcome Home' For The Japanese-American Queer Community. 2020-07-02. NPR. en.
2. Web site: Yamamoto. J.K.. October 13, 2016. Okaeri's Ripple Effect. 2020-07-02. Rafu Shimpo. en-US.
3. Web site: June 23, 2015. Dennis And Judy Shepard, PFLAG Parents, Accept Honor At Logo Trailblazer Honors. 2020-07-02. LOGO News.
4. Web site: Nakamura. Ryoko. October 3, 2012. From Fear and Confusion to Love and Acceptance. 2020-07-02. Rafu Shimpo. en-US.