Am I the only one enthralled by the always changing Google logo? Every time a historical event, important figure, or national holiday comes up, Google’s home page logo changes into an intricate design specifically to celebrate or remember the day. Not only are the artistically shaped letters advertising the search engine’s function, but it also educates their viewers about people who shaped history.
In just these past two weeks, I learned about two women who pioneered two major industries, but without the help of Google, I would have never realized what these women did to make what I do today possible. The first is Yuri Kochiyama, who would have celebrated her 95th birthday this year on May 19. Kockiyama was an American political activist and supported racial integration during a time in history when African Americans and Japanese Americans were fighting for their rights. She grew up with her family in San Pedro, CA, and received a college education. As a twenty-year-old, her father’s arrest (for being a potential threat to national security after Pearl Harbor) influenced her decision to stand up for what she believed. Following activists like Malcom X, Yuri Kochiyama strongly believed in breaking down the barriers of race and religion. Along with participating in protests and movements to support, she also serviced her community by teaching English to immigrants and volunteered at soup kitchens and homeless shelters. Through the years, she spoke at schools and was honored by certain organizations. Whether or not you agree fully with Kochiyama’s views, it was a nice change to see the college educated female activist receive recognition.
The other figure who popped up across the Google home page this past week was Lotte Reiniger in celebration of her 117th birthday this year. The German film maker pioneered silhouette animation and found success in the film industry as a woman. She also helped the creation on the first multi-plane camera, later used by Walt Disney in "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs." After fleeing from her home country because of World War II and overcoming the hardships which came along with it, she and her husband lived in London and continued their films. Lotte Reiniger persevered in an industry of mostly men during a time when her own country failed to see her work because of her religious beliefs. Google displayed another strong woman who used her education and strength to help her through her life goals.
Just in these past two weeks, I have gained a respect for two women in history who weren’t taught in any class I took in high school. There are so many activists, artists and women who deserve recognition, and it’s nice to see Google act on it. So, as a society who made “google” a verb, let’s take a moment to click on the icon that’s already got our attention on the home screen.
