Despite Sympathy For People With Disabilities ‘Post-Sagamihara’, Group Homes Often Opposed

In response to the ‘Sagamihara Stabbings’, Kanagawa Prefecture has set a goal of “realizing a society where we can live together,” placing emphasis on a shift away from welfare policies that require people with disabilities to spend their entire lives in facilities, and promoting a shift to community living. However, in reality, there are many cases where attempts to open group homes (GHs) have been met with opposition from residents and forced to abandon plans. “We won’t let them do it unless everyone agrees.” At an information session for a GH for people with disabilities scheduled to open in Kanazawa Ward, Yokohama, residents repeatedly voiced their opposition. Episode notes: ‘Memorial ceremony held for disabled victims of 2016 care home stabbings’: https://barrierfreejapan.com/2024/07/28/memorial-ceremony-held-for-disabled-victims-of-2016-care-home-stabbings/ ‘Eight Years Pass Since ‘Sagamihara Stabbings’ at Care Home for People with Disabilities in Japan, Group Homes for Disabled Still Often Opposed’: https://barrierfreejapan.com/2024/07/26/eight-years-pass-since-sagamihara-stabbings-at-care-home-for-people-with-disabilities-in-japan-group-homes-for-disabled-still-often-opposed/