Saturday, November 13, 2004
In Memoriam: Iris Chang, 1968-2004
I note with profound sadness the death of Iris Chang, of an apparent suicide, at the age of 36. Investigative journalist, author, historian, lecturer, activist and whistleblower, Chang is best known for her groundbreaking book, The Rape of Nanking, which called worldwide attention to the massacre, rape and torture of 300,000 Chinese at the hand of the Japanese army in 1937—arguably the worst, and still most unrecognized, war crime in world history.
Her other works include Thread of the Silkworm (chronicling China's missile program), and The Chinese in America (a history). Left unfinished was an investigation of American POWs under Japanese captivity in World War II.
Her legacy, and the heroic spirit evident across the body of her published works, will forever inspire and educate people of Chinese descent all over the world, and galvanize all who oppose tyranny in the struggle for a better world.
I salute you, Iris. Rest in peace.
Her other works include Thread of the Silkworm (chronicling China's missile program), and The Chinese in America (a history). Left unfinished was an investigation of American POWs under Japanese captivity in World War II.
Her legacy, and the heroic spirit evident across the body of her published works, will forever inspire and educate people of Chinese descent all over the world, and galvanize all who oppose tyranny in the struggle for a better world.
I salute you, Iris. Rest in peace.
