By admin 
LOS ANGELES (KABC) — Mia Yamamoto, a criminal defense attorney, veteran and longtime advocate for justice, is being recognized as grand marshal of her home city’s Pride parade, a role that reflects decades of activism shaped by her early life and career.
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Yamamoto, who was born in the Poston Relocation Camp in Arizona during World War II, said her life’s work has been guided by a commitment to equality and justice.
Her family was among thousands of Japanese Americans detained by the U.S. government at the time, an experience that helped define her enduring mission.
“The goals are always equality for everyone. Justice for everyone,” Yamamoto said.
Her commitment to equity spans multiple roles. A Vietnam veteran who served with the 4th Infantry Division, she is also the child of a civil rights advocate affiliated with the NAACP.
After graduating from UCLA law school, Yamamoto built a career as a community organizer and public defender, later becoming a vocal ally of the Black Lives Matter movement.
“Whatever you do for your own legal community is meaningless if it doesn’t benefit society as a whole,” Yamamoto said.
On Friday night, Yamamoto was honored at Dodger Stadium for her military service as part of Pride Month celebrations.
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At 82, she said her experience also carries a deeper responsibility as a member of an older generation in the LGBTQ+ community.
“I’ve got to be there for them, because I’m a living eyewitness to ancient history that can provide them with perspective,” she said when asked about offering hope to younger people.
Yamamoto’s legacy is also reflected in public recognition across Los Angeles, including her image featured in a Pride mural in Hollywood.
She said the current moment has only heightened the urgency of her advocacy.
“I feel particularly honored in the face of all of that to be the grand marshal of this particular parade at this particular time in history when the need to rise up, speak out, and march are at least as great as they’ve ever been,” Yamamoto said.
As she prepares to lead the city’s 56th Pride Parade, Yamamoto said she hopes her example encourages continued engagement and activism.
“I want them to see an old lawyer who is still on the streets working, and, as a queer person, still has a contribution to make. Still cares about making society better and is still fighting the good fight,” she said.
Yamamoto said the parade comes at a time when Pride represents both celebration and ongoing struggle, underscoring the importance of visibility and perseverance.
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