Okinawan identity to be explored during their association’s 100th anniversary celebrations

 

Cultural News, 2009 August Issue

 

   As part of the 100th anniversary celebration, the Okinawa Association of America, Inc. (OAA) is presenting five programs exploring various aspects of Okinawan identity. The programs will trace the formation of Okinawan identity from ancient Ryukyuan literature to the diasporic emigration, including the creation of communities throughout the world, in order to help Okinawans and Okinawans-at-heart better understand the history and culture.

 

   The programs will be held at Gardena Buddhist Church on Aug. 28, and at the Japanese American National Museum, Los Angeles on Aug. 30.

 

Kenjinkai (Association) Leaders Conference

Friday, August 28, 10 a.m. – 11 a.m., Gardena Buddhist Temple, 1517 West 166th Street, Gardena, CA 90247

 

    More than 30 Okinawan associations (Okinawa kenjinkai) exist across the U.S.  Leaders from these groups will convene to share their common concerns and exchange ideas about how to continue to promote Okinawan culture and Okinawan associations throughout the U.S.  Reservations are strongly suggested. 

 

Wakamun Nu Miati (Building the Next Generation)  

Friday, August 28, 1 p.m. – 3 p.m., Gardena Buddhist Temple

 

    This open meeting will bring young leaders within U.S.-based Okinawan associations together to exchange practical ideas about engaging younger members.  Those who would like to participate and/or suggest agenda items can post them on Okinawa Association of America 2009’s Facebook fan page. 

 

“Okinawan Spirituality Expressed in Ancient Ryukyuan Literature”

Lecture by Prof. Eikichi Hateruma, Okinawa Prefectural University of Arts

Friday, August 28, 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m., Gardena Buddhist Temple

 

     Prof. Hateruma will trace the evolution of Okinawan spirituality, as evidenced in ancient Ryukyuan literature.  Prof. Ron Nakasone, editor of Okinawan Diaspora, will provide the English translation.  

 

“Thoughts on the Okinawan Community: Past, Present, and Future”

Lecture by Prof. Ben Kobashigawa and Prof. Wesley Ueunten, San Francisco State University

Sunday, August 30, 10 a.m. – 11 a.m., Japanese American National Museum, 369 East First Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012

 

     Prof. Kobashigawa (editor and translator of History of the Okinawans in North America) and Prof. Ueunten (contributor to Okinawan Diaspora and Okinawan Experience) will provide their thoughts on the formation and continuation of Okinawan communities, locally, nationally, and internationally.  

 

Los Angeles Uchinaanchu (Okinawan) Intergenerational Panel and Audience Discussion

Sunday, August 30, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., Japanese American National Museum, Los Angeles

 

     An intergenerational panel, including Mr. Takeo Kaneshiro (editor of the Godaishu), Aiko Majikina, and Joseph Jones will share their experiences of being Uchinanchu in Southern California. Audience members will then be encouraged to collectively reminisce about their own memories and experiences. 

 

    Additional details and updates about the programs can be found at www.oaamensore.org/100 or by calling the OAA office at (310) 532-1929.