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During the war, Sugihara issued thousands of transit visas, allowing Jewish families from Poland and Lithuania to escape. But the visas were just the beginning of a difficult journey across Asia to find safety in Japan.

A grey photo album with portrait photographs on two rows, a hand is holding the album. Partially obscured.
Winnipeg - March 20, 2025 –

During the Second World War, thousands of Jewish refugees from Poland and Lithuania escaped the Holocaust thanks to transit visas issued by Chiune Sugihara, a Japanese diplomat stationed in Lithuania.

Akira Kitade, an author and historian, will share these incredible stories of survival during a free public event at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights (CMHR) on Sunday, March 23.

During the war, Sugihara issued thousands of transit visas, allowing Jewish families from Poland and Lithuania to escape. But the visas were just the beginning of a difficult journey across Asia to find safety in Japan.

Kitade's own journey to uncover these stories includes finding items left behind by one refugee, which were held by his former boss at the Japan National Tourist Organization. This connection brings the past to life in a deeply moving way.

Sugihara was honoured posthumously as "Righteous Among the Nations" by Yad Vashem in 1984, recognizing his courageous efforts to save lives.

This event is co‐sponsored by the Consul‐General of Japan in Calgary, the Japanese Cultural Association of Manitoba, and the Jewish Heritage Centre of Western Canada.

What: Visas of Life and the Epic Journey

When: Sunday, March 23, 2025

4:45 p.m. –7:30 p.m., includes reception (doors open at 4 p.m.)

Where: Bonnie & John Buhler Hall, Level 1, Canadian Museum for Human Rights

Tickets: Free with registration
 

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