Keiko Fukuda, the woman who earned the distinction of becoming the highest ranking woman in Judo, has died at the age of 99. Fukuda joined the sport when women were expected to learn the Japanese tea ceremony and calligraphy.
Host Katy Clark talks with Yuriko Gamo Romer. She’s director of “Mrs. Judo: Be Strong, Be Gentle, Be Beautiful,” on the life of Fukuda.
Romer talks about how when Fukuda was 21, she was invited by judo’s founder, Jigoro Kano, to join the newly formed women’s division of the Kodokan — the home of Judo.
Fukuda taught judo to women and opened her own dojo (studio).
She was still coaching just a few weeks until her death.
Fukuda advanced to the highest rank, the 10th dan, which in Judo is honored with a red belt.
At The World, we believe strongly that human-centered journalism is at the heart of an informed public and a strong democracy. We see democracy and journalism as two sides of the same coin. If you care about one, it is imperative to care about the other.
Every day, our nonprofit newsroom seeks to inform and empower listeners and hold the powerful accountable. Neither would be possible without the support of listeners like you. If you believe in our work, will you give today? We need your help now more than ever!