Like many of us, Yuri Kochiyama’s early experiences made a profound impact on her life. Her identity as a Japanese American living during World War II began shifting her understanding of social justice and propelled her career as an activist. Despite being incarcerated in a relocation camp, Kochiyama connected with her community through teaching Sunday school, volunteering as a nurse’s aide, and writing letters of encouragement to Nisei, Japanese American soldiers, fighting overseas. This commitment to community engagement would follow Kochiyama throughout her life.