This Month in Soka Gakkai History (July)

In 1945, Josei Toda, then-Soka Gakkai general director, was released from prison after being incarcerated for two years for violating the Peace Preservation Law by refusing to forsake his faith. On the same day in 1957, a young Daisaku Ikeda, then-youth division chief of staff, was arrested by the Osaka Prefectural Police on false charges of violating election campaigning laws. On Jan. 25, 1962, he was acquitted of all charges. (See The Human Revolution, “Dawn” and “Osaka” chapters; and The New Human Revolution, vol. 5, “Lion” chapter)

7/8

Establishment of the Byakuren Group

In 1966, Sensei gave the name Byakuren to the young women who were supporting Soka Gakkai activities behind the scenes, and this was announced in the July 8, 1966, Seikyo Shimbun, establishing it as an official training group. (See NHR-24, “Vigilant Safeguarding” chapter)

7/11

Establishment of the Young Men’s Division

In 1951, some 100 young men gathered with newly inaugurated president Josei Toda at the former Soka Gakkai Headquarters building, establishing the young men’s division. (See The Human Revolution, “Overwhelming Joy” chapter)

7/12+17

Tokyo and Osaka Rallies 

Following Sensei’s unjust arrest on July 3, 1957, the Tokyo Rally was held on July 12. When Sensei was released from jail on July 17, members celebrated at the Osaka Rally held that same day. 

7/19

Establishment of the Young Women’s Division

In 1951, 74 young women gathered with President Toda at the former Soka Gakkai Headquarters building for the inaugural meeting of the young women’s division. (See The Human Revolution, “Overwhelming Joy” chapter)

7/22

Establishment of the Fife and Drum Corps

In 1956, the young women’s Fife and Drum Corps was founded with 33 members. (See NHR-14, “Mission” chapter)