Shiro Kashiba and the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Rays

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July 12, 2024

By Naoko and Ken Morisawa
NAP Contributors

▲Left: Target-Forever-II before the vandalism. Right: Target-Forever-II by artist Naoko Morisawa vandalized on all four sides. Located at Third Avenue and Pine Street in Seattle, Washington.
Photo credit: Ken Morisawa.

Theft and vandalism targeting local businesses and public facilities in downtown Seattle continues to worsen in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. The City of Seattle Office of Arts & Culture, City of Seattle Department of Transportation, and King County Metro created a project to design bus stops along Third Avenue with art, starting at the end of 2021. The goal was to make downtown a vibrant and attractive place through public art. Since March 2022, designs by Naoko Morisawa have been displayed at the bus kiosk located at the intersection of Third Avenue and Pine Street. Morisawa’s art, which has four sides, has been a unique addition to the downtown streetscape.

Earlier this year, however, three kiosks (each by a different artist including Morisawa) were damaged by vandalism. In response, Morisawa and the nonprofit Northwest Designer Craftartists (NWDC) Executive Director Daniel Wallace worked together seeking funds to repair the vandalized kiosks. They continue to request support and grants from local businesses, the Japanese Embassy, and the City of Seattle.

At the end of June, they successfully applied for a grant from the City of Seattle’s Smart Art Venture Program securing a budget to repair one of the three kiosks. Although the amount of money is still not enough for a comprehensive restoration, a major step forward has been taken. Donations from individuals will be accepted from July 2024 onward through Morisawa’s website at https://www.naokomorisawa.com/home (PayPal) and NWDC’s website at https://nwdesignercraftartists.org/about. The Kinokuniya bookstore in the Seattle Uwajimaya is also helping to publicize information about the case.

Calendar from July 12th Print Issue

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July 11, 2024

JULY

▪️Seattle Japanese Language School
for the 2024-2025 academic year is open through Jul 16 for returning students. Jul 17, registration opens for new students. Students who take these classes will learn the Japanese language and about Japanese culture. See: https://www.jcccw.org/sjls.

▪️Annual Kimono Sale — Tue/Thu, Jul 16, 18, 23, 25, 30 and Aug 1, 7-9 p.m. Oregon Buddhist Temple, 3720 SE 34th Ave, Portland. Also, Sat, Aug 3, 2-7 p.m. at Obon Fest. For more info: mottainaicraftgroup24@gmail.com. Kimono-related donations are appreciated.

▪️Demystifying the Unconscious Minds of Bilingual Communications – Shin-Issei Perspectives – Thu, Jul 18, 5 p.m. virtual (Fri, Jul 19, 9 a.m. Japan) by the U.S.-Japan Council. Shin-Issei panelists with different backgrounds analyze communication behaviors in two (or more) languages seamlessly. Panel will explore unspoken rules with input from the audience. Register at: https://www.usjapancouncil.org/upcoming-events/.

▪️Tea Ceremony: Introduction To Chanoyu – Sat, Jul 20, 1–3:40 p.m. Seattle Japanese Garden, 1075 Lake Washington Blvd E, Seattle. https://www.seattlejapanesegarden.org/events .

▪️Natsu Matsuri – Sat-Sun, Jul 20-21, 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Sat, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sun. Weller Steet between 5 th & 6 th Ave S, Seattle. A celebration of summer by Uwajimaya with lots of food vendors and community organizations.

▪️People of the Drum by Portland Taiko, Sat, Jul 20, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Gateway Discovery Park, 10520 NE Halsey St, Portland. Annual event, free, family-friendly performances and workshops.

▪️Annual Obon Memorial Service, Hatsubon, and Segaki Ritual, Sun, Jul 21, 10 a.m. Jingoji Buddhist Temple, 502 Redmond-Fall City Rd SE, Redmond. Obon is a time to pay respectful homage to loved ones and ancestors and pray for longevity of living parents. If you would like to participate, send or telephone ancestor names by Jul 17. (425)-222-4710. Free. Donations welcomed. https://www.facebook.com/jingoji.buddhist.temple/ .

▪️Jazz Sake in the Garden – Mon, Jul 22, 6-9 p.m. Seattle Japanese Garden, 1075 Lake Washington Blvd E, Seattle. https://www.seattlejapanesegarden.org/events .

▪️64th Annual Golf Tournament, Mon, Jul 22, 10 a.m.–7 p.m., The Plateau Club, Sammamish. Fundraiser by Japan-America Society of the State of Washington. Registration and info at: https://jassw.info/event-5667196 .

▪️Brave Mrs. Sato Reading with book author Lori Matsukawa, Sat, Jul 27, 10:30-11:30 a.m., Japanese American Museum of Oregon, 411 NW Flanders St STE 100, Portland. Free with admission.

▪️Wakamusha film, Fri, Jul 26, 7 p.m.; July 27, 4-7 p.m.; Sun Jul 28, 4 -7 p.m. NW Film Forum, 1515 — 12th Ave, Seattle. Written and directed by Ryutaro Ninomiya. Lives of three young men who contemplate their meaningless lives, viewing the world through dull eyes. Tickets at: https://nwfilmforum.org/films/wakamusha .

▪️Wandering & Wondering, Butoh dance performance, Sun, Jul 28, 12-3 p.m. Kubota Garden, 110915 – 51 st Ave S, Seattle. Visitors will encounter dancers and musicians dispersed in surprising locations as performers engage in a response to the scents, sounds, sights and sensations of the garden.

▪️Tea Ceremony: Introduction to Chanoyu , Sun, Jul 28, 1–3:40 p.m., Seattle Japanese Garden, 1075 Lake Washington Blvd E, Seattle. https://www.seattlejapanesegarden.org/ Events.

▪️Garden Tour, Sun, Jul 28, 10 a.m. Kubota Garden, 9817 55th Ave S, Seattle. Tour with volunteer guides. If registration is full, sign up on the waitlist. https://kubotagarden.org/tours.

▪️Mukai Studio Ghibli Festival at Vashon Theatre, 17723 Vashon Hwy SW, Vashon, featuring:
　Spirited Away, Tue, Jul. 23 rd, 7 p.m.
　My Neighbor Totoro, Tue, Aug. 6th, 7 p.m.
　Princess Mononoke, Tue, Aug 20th, 7 p.m. For more
information, see: mukaifarmandgarden.org.

▪️Bon Odori – a free, outdoor Japanese dance honoring the spirits of ancestors. Along with food andactivities, the festival can be found at several locations:

・ Sat-Sun, Jul 20-21, 2-8 p.m.　 Seattle Betsuin Temple, 1427 S Main St. https://www.seattlebetsuin.com/2024-bon-odori/.
・ Sat, Jul 27, 4-9 p.m. 　White River Buddhist Temple, 3625 Auburn Way N, Auburn. https://www.wrbt.org/.
・ Sun, Jul 28, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. 　Nikkei Manor, 700 Sixth Ave S, Seattle.　https://www.keironw.org.
・ Sat, Aug 3, 2-9 p.m. 　Oregon Buddhist Temple, 3720 SE 34th Ave, Portland. https://www.oregonbuddhisttemple.com/obon-festival.
・ Sat, Aug 3, 4-8 p.m. 　Tacoma Buddhist Temple, 1717 Fawcett Ave, Tacoma. https://www.tacomabt.org.
・ Sat, Aug 10, 5-9 p.m. 　by the Olympia Chapter, Japanese American Citizens League. New location — South Puget Sound Community College, Center for Student Success (Bldg 22), 2011 Mottman Rd SW, Olympia. For more info: Reiko Callner (360) 791-3295. https://www.facebook.com/share/tTAS1j9tu DVCyMEX/? mibextid=9l3rBW .
・ Sat, Aug 31, 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Portland Japanese Garden with paid admission, 611 SW Kingston Ave., Portland. https://japanesegarden.org/events/bon-odori-summer-festival-2024/.

Building Stronger Aerospace and Tabletop Gaming Ties with Japan

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July 1, 2024

Building Stronger Aerospace and Tabletop Gaming Ties with Japan

By Steve Hobbs
Washington State Secretary of State

In April, I was honored to join a team of business owners, the Washington State Economic Development Board and other state representatives on a trade and cultural mission to Japan focused on making connections in the aerospace and tabletop gaming industries.

▲WA St. Sec. of St. Hobbs, right, with former Japanese Amb. to U.S. – Ichiro Fujisaki, middle, and Dep. Chief of Mission, U.S. Emb. in Tokyo – Raymond Greene, left.

Washington and Japan share more than seven decades of aerospace partnerships through the growth of Boeing and related companies such as technology and energy development. Those ties remain essential to the economies of both our nations. When my team met with Sekisui Aerospace, the North American headquarters for Sekisui Chemical Company based in Japan, last October we learned their Pierce County office struggled to find skilled workers. This year, I introduced them to the Transition Assistance Program at the Joint Base Lewis-McChord military installation to connect with possible employees in the apprentice and job-training program.

▲Alex Jerabek, left, owner of Cherry Picked Games gives his game Hair of the Dog to Kota Taira,right, CEO of Sunny Bird, board game café and publisher.

We also have an opportunity to grow our international trade through mutual cultivation of the tabletop and role-playing computer gaming industry. Washington is home to many gaming companies, including Wizards of the Coast, creators of Dungeons & Dragons. These games are an excellent opportunity for people of all ages and abilities to come together, strategize and build relationships. More than 50 libraries across the state will receive a Dungeon & Dragons library box set. Many will also receive up to $2,000 to bring tabletop role-playing games to patrons through a grant program administered by the Washington State Library, a division of the Office of Secretary of State. This project was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services. Wizards of the Coast donated the kits in March.

One of the highlights of our trip was the Tokyo Game Market, where we were accompanied by Washington-based tabletop computer gaming companies Heart of the Deernicorn, Cherry Picked Games, Flatout Games, Lone Shark Games and Green Ronin Publishing. This event proved to be a fruitful platform for establishing connections with Japanese game publishers and distributors, and an opportunity for the companies to make over $5,000 worth of sales at the Tokyo Game Market booth.

During our trip, we met with leaders from the U.S. Embassy and the Japan External Trade Organization. We met the former Japan ambassador to the U.S. Ichiro Fujisaki and Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo Raymond Greene, with whom we discussed the economic and trade opportunities with Japan.

We have reflected on the deep ties and mutual prosperity between Washington and Japan businesses. Through the aerospace and tabletop computer gaming industries, we are inspired to continue creating in-person connections to bolster economic ties between Washington and Japan.

Advancing Democracy in the Face of Current Threats

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July 1, 2024

Advancing Democracy in the Face of Current Threats

By Sharon Maeda
NAP Contributor

In 2016, when Minoru Yasui would have been 100 years old, the Oregon legislature unanimously designated March 28th Minoru Yasui Day. It was March 28, 1942. Yasui deliberately challenged the U.S. military curfew for people of Japanese ancestry after the World War II Japanese bombing in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. Yasui was a graduate of the University of Oregon School of Law. At that time, no law firm would hire him due to his race.Ironically, he used his legal education to take his case all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court.

▲Audience at the Minoru Yasui Day, University of Oregon, Portland. Photo credit: Rich Iwasaki.

Yasui challenged the constitutionality of the curfew and disobeyed it. He spent nine months in a solitary confinement jail and then was incarcerated with 10,000 others of Japanese ancestry at Minidoka in Idaho.

Yasui lost his U.S. Supreme Court case. Decades later, the Sansei (third generation Japanese American) attorneys and activists filed a writ of coram nobis with the courts. They proved the U.S. government excluded facts that could have changed the outcome of the U.S. Supreme Court case.

Yasui went on to work for justice throughout his life including the Japanese American redress movement and other civil rights issues while working for the City of Denver in Colorado. Today, the Minoru Yasui Plaza is a court building in downtown Denver.

Every spring, various events are held to recognize Yasui. This year, one of the programs was “Advancing Democracy in the Face of Current Threats.” On a dreary Portland day this year, over 100 people gathered at the University of Oregon with members of the Yasui family, Japan’s Consul General of Portland Yuzo Yoshioka and more attending online.

The keynote speaker was Oregon Representative Khanh Pham, District 46. She was the first Vietnamese American to be elected to the Oregon legislature in 2020.

▲Minoru Yasui’s Presidential Medal of Freedom award citation. Photo credit: Minoru Yasui Legacy Project.

Then a panel of three activists spoke about how they are advancing democracy. Rebecca Asaki, staff for Tsuru for Solidarity, a national Japanese American organization; Amy Herzfeld-Copple, executive director of Western States Center, a nonprofit organization; and Paul Susi who works for Oregon Humanities but spends his time helping the unhoused.Joy and laughter filled the room as a short video produced by Mari Hayman and Caleb Haas, Yonsei (fourth-generation Japanese American) family members of Yasui. The program culminated with the announcement of the winners of the Minoru Yasui Legacy Project Student Awards. They are given in memory of Yasui’s late daughter, Holly Yasui. She was co-founder of the project and produced a documentary about her father.

(Sharon Maeda was the Master of Ceremonies and panel moderator at the 2024 Min Yasui Day.)

Keiro Northwest Sustains Support for Assisted Living Community and Programs

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June 30, 2024

keiro-northwest-bento — Photo by Shihou Sasaki/ The North Ameriacn Post

Keiro Northwest Sustains Support for
Assisted Living Community and Programs

By Karlee Hicks
NAP Contributor

Photo by Shihou Sasaki/ The North Ameriacn Post

Keiro Northwest (Keiro NW), a community-based nonprofit serving Seattle’s Japanese American seniors,announced significant developments recently. According to Keiro NW Board of Directors President Dave Cullen, the organization recently finalized a new long-term lease that removes uncertainty about the future of Nikkei Manor, an assisted-living community.

In addition, Cullen noted that the organization recently received a $5.8 million gift from the estate of Fred Takemoto. He is the son of a former Keiro nursing home resident. “The donor’s mother was part of our community for years, and the decision by Fred to make such a generous contribution makes our path forward much easier,” Cullen said. “We plan to use the funds as an endowment of sorts, giving us a solid financial foundation to move forward.”

Cullen noted that “it is a difficult environment for senior-care services across the board and particularly so for one as tailored as our own serving Seattle’s Japanese American community.

“We know we have an important mission to serve our community, and in full recognition of the work and sacrifice of those who founded this community,” he continued. “We are heartened to be able to ensure its future.”

Many senior care organizations have faced closures with the rising cost of care and the increased complexity of resident needs. These challenges were exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The large donation and solidification comes at a crucial time. Nikkei Manor is now embarking on future planning initiatives aimed at ensuring its long-term viability.
Keiro NW also welcomed new members to its board recently. They bring a wealth of experience in senior living management and shared dedication to the organization’s mission. The board is conducting a thorough review of its operations and are identifying strategic pathways to ensure Nikkei Manor continues its provision of unique and tailored offerings to the local Japanese American community. This will involve a combination of operational enhancements (to improve efficiencies and maintain service quality) along with a strategy to expand and sustain its resident census.

Future planning efforts will involve engaging with the community, refreshing Keiro NW’s mission and expanding its adult day program, KokoroKai.

Cullen expressed optimism for the organization’s future and acknowledged the importance of Keiro NW’s mission in serving Seattle’s Japanese American community.

“We are very optimistic about our future, thanks to the hard work of our team and the generous support of our community,” he said. “The future planning efforts we are undertaking will ensure Keiro NW remains a focal point of our community for a very long time.”

ABOUT KEIRO NORTHWEST

Formerly known as Nikkei Concerns, Keiro NW is dedicated to honoring the past and preserving Japanese American heritage. Situated in the heart of Seattle’s International District, Keiro NW offers culturally sensitive programs and services. Recognized throughout the Northwest, the organization is committed to providing uniquely tailored care to meet the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of Asian elders.

Vashon Remembers the Day of Exile

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June 29, 2024

Vashon Remembers the Day of Exile

By Alex Bruell
Beachcomber newspaper

A crowd of nearly 100 people visited Ober Park on Vashon Island on May 19 to commemorate the Day of Exile — a time of trauma and betrayal for Vashon’s residents of Japanese ancestry. The commemoration was also a time of healing and looking forward through tributes by artists and authors. It was the beginning of a campaign for a sculpture marking the expulsion at the park.

▲Islander Joe Okimoto, a former World War II incarceree, speaks during the “Day of Exile” event.

Ober Park was the site where, on May 16, 1942, U.S. armed soldiers rounded up 111 islanders of Japanese ancestry. They forcibly deported residents off the island and ultimately into incarcerated camps across the western U.S. Told to bring only what they could carry, many wore multiple layers of clothing on a hot May day and then shuttled to a ferry on the north end, Rita Brogan, former Friends of Mukai Board of Directors President, told the crowd. From there, a sweltering train took them to the Pinedale Assembly Center in the middle of the desert near Fresno, California. Afterwards, the prisoners were taken to more permanent camps.

▲Koshin Cain, abbot of the Puget Sound Zen Center, rings bell.

This incarceration of Japanese and Japanese Americans was, according to the U.S. Civil Liberties Act of 1988, a decision made because of “race, prejudice, war hysteria and a failure of political leadership” — not due to legitimate military or security concerns. The detainment shattered the community, and only about a third returned after the war.

▲ Rita Brogan holding the first check received for the sculpture campaign.

Searching for Saito” book by Islander Miya Sukune. All Photos credit: Alex Bruell.　▶︎

Islander Dr. Joe Okimoto was one of those unconstitutionally uprooted and forced away from home. He read excerpts from the poetry of previous Vashon Poet Laureate Lonny Kaneko, an islander imprisoned in the camps who died in 2017. Vashon High School student Sam Bosanko read from the recollections of Eddie Owada, who had to drop out of school to work at age 15 after the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigations arrested his father. Vashon artist and author Miya Sukune read recollections of Tillie Sakai Katsura, a 17-year-old on the day of exile. (Today, Tillie is 100 years old and the suitcase that her younger sister carried is on display at the Mukai Farm & Garden on Vashon.) Sukunerecently published a graphic novel titled, Searching for Saito, which chronicles the story of Rinzo Saito, a Japanese immigrant who lived in Seattle from 1912 to 1969. Mary Raybourn read recollections of Mary Matsuda Gruenewald, who was preparing to graduate from Vashon High School. Seventy-four years later in 2017 at the age of 92, Gruenewald returned to the school in a wheelchair with a cap and gown to receive her diploma.

To close the ceremony, island historian Bruce Haulman and abbot of the Puget Sound Zen Center Koshin Cain held a blessing and bell ceremony. They read the surnames of the 30 households who were exiled and imprisoned and struck a bell for each one.

The ceremony also marked the start of a campaign to install a sculpture at Ober Park commemorating the Japanese and Japanese Americans who were brought there in 1942. The campaign got its first check for $500 right after the ceremony’s close. The sculpture will include an educational component with curriculum for seventh grade students on the island.

Calendar from June 28th Print Issue

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June 28, 2024

JULY

▪️Tea Ceremony: Introduction to Chanoyu, Fri., Jul. 5, 1 p.m. – 3:40 p.m.
at Seattle Japanese Garden, 1075 E Lk Washington Blvd, Seattle. https://www.seattlejapanesegarden.org/events-calendar/2024/6/22/chaboshu.

▪️Seattle Zine Fest, Sun., Jul. 7, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. at 420 – 15th Ave E, Seattle. It is a FREE one-day celebration of zines and DIY culture. Relish in the local indie publishing and distribution. Zine tables with 60+ local artists, a make-your-own-zine workshop, a zine library, and more! https://www.eventbrite.com/e/seattle-zine-fest-2024-tickets-919137012547.

▪️Tanabata Star Festival at the Seattle Japanese Garden, Sat., Jul. 6th – Sun., Jul. 7th. Need volunteer help. Some of the positions start as early as Tues., Jul. 2nd to prepare origami ornaments. Need help with: origami prep, bamboo decoration, Tanabata station, and garden monitor. See: https://app.initlive.com/web-admin/app/#/join-party?k=83lbrsupjk7rko or contact: Yukari Yamano at: yyamano@arboretumfoundation.org .
Learn more about the event at: https://www.seattlejapanesegarden.org/events-calendar/2024/7/6-7/tanabata.

▪️When It’s Time to Consider Assisted Living, Thu., Jul. 11th, 1;30 – 3:30 p.m., Nikkei Manor, 700 Sixth Ave., S, Seattle. Kokoro Kai’s Conversation Cafe series: Join us for a seminar from Nikkei Manor’s Marketing and Sales Director Thomas Papastavrou. It is a conversation with peers and bento! RSVP to Tomoko Faasuamalie 206-726-6474 or tfaasuamalie@keironw.org.

▪️92 nd Bon Odori (Japanese folk dance), Sat.-Sun., Jul. 20-21st, 2 – 8 p.m. at Betsuin Buddhist Temple, 1427 S Main St, Seattle. https://seattlebetsuin.com/2024-obon.

▪️White River Buddhist Temple Bon Odori, Jul. 27th , 4 – 9 p.m., 3625 Auburn Way N, Auburn. Dancing, taiko, performances, food booths, beer garden. For more information, see: https://www.wrbt.org.

▪️ Bon Odori Summer Festival, Sun., Jul. 28th, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., Nikkei Manor, 700 Sixth Ave. S., Seattle. Local Japanese food vendor, Ayame Kai crafters, local artisans, small businesses, Asian-focused community organizations, and more! Join us for taiko drums, dancing, and other live music performances! Bake sale with proceeds benefiting Nikkei’s Employee Fund. Free event. Street parking only. Calling all dance lovers and home-bakers! If you would like to dance with us in a yukata and/or contribute to our bake sale, please contact Itsuko Simpson at: isimpson@keironw.org.

Survey on Meydenbauer Bay Park expansion

By

Hikari Kono

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June 27, 2024

With its distinctive curved pier and stunning views, Meydenbauer Bay Park is one of Bellevue’s most popular and iconic destinations.

The community has been weighing in on priorities for the park, which have informed the potential designs for the park’s expansion. Shared with community members at a June 10th meeting, the designs are the subject of an online survey, available until July 15.

In 2010, the city adopted the Meydenbauer Bay Park and Land Use Plan, with
considerable community input, to guide the park’s future development.

A first phase of development completed in 2019 added the public pier expanded the beach of the old Meydenbauer Beach Park eightfold, restored the ravine and established the beginning of a pedestrian promenade.

The city is now pursuing a second phase of expansion, guided by the 2010 or adopted
plan and current input and city needs. The park will be expanded south along the shore,
toward the intersection of 100th Avenue Northeast and Lake Washington Boulevard.

This design phase will last approximately another six months; the project timeline will be
determined at the end of this design process.

Take survey now: www.engagingbellevue.com/meydenbauer-bay-park-expansion
CONTACTS: ☎️ 425-452-4286 、 cfaine@bellevuewa.gov
（Christina Faine, Parks & Community Services Public Information Officer）

442nd Infantry Today

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June 17, 2024

Barbara Mizoguchi
NAP Editor

On May 27, the Nisei Veterans Committee (NVC) sponsored the 79th annual memorial service at Lakeview Cemetery in Seattle. Everyone gathered near the Nisei War Memorial monument — a 22-foot-tall granite obelisk with major military campaigns inscribed.

For the 22nd year, Colleen Fukui-Sketchley was the Mistress of Ceremonies. Boy Scout Troop #252 presented the colors (flags) and the NVC’s Scholarship Award Recipient Danielle Hirano sang the national anthem. It was followed by the invocation, meditation and reflection by representatives from local Japanese American churches. Welcome remarks were provided by the current NVC Commander Dale Watanabe and former NVC Foundation President Shawn Brinsfield.

Watanabe reflected on an earlier capital campaign for their current building and pointed out that next year will be the 80th anniversary of NVC. He also mentioned that his uncle Ken Muramoto, a World War II veteran and 101 years old, was in attendance. Brinsfield mentioned that after World War II, there were approximately 70,000 unaccounted soldiers. In 1942 a story in The Seattle Times noted that a monument would be built in their honor. Today it rests at the Evergreen-Washelli Memorial Park in Seattle.

Edgewood “Edward” Ikebe was formally acknowledged at the ceremony. He was part of the Puyallup tribe and was incarcerated at the Tule Lake War Relocation Center in northeast California. Like many others, he left the center to serve in the U.S. Army. In 1945 Ikebe was reported missing in action in Sims, Germany, after German soldiers ran toward his company with machine guns. Today, he is memorialized at the Luxembourg American Cemetery in Luxembourg with a bronze star and purple heart. Unfortunately, because of misinformation that was circulated at the time, Ikebe became estranged from the Japanese American community. Ikebe’s daughter and grandchildren attended the service and were given a formal apology by Brinsfield.

The guest speaker was Roberto J. Whyte, First Lieutenant, Company C, 100-442nd Infantry, U.S.A. He mentioned that each new soldier is told about the World War II 442nd Infantry. In his talks with them, the lieutenant said he always stresses the integrity of those veterans and how they overcame adversity. He also makes it a point to mention the importance of inclusivity and diversity in today’s culture and the importance of maintaining the same enduring spirit demonstrated by those veterans. In conclusion, the lieutenant said that he hopes the current 442nd Infantry will continue to protect the veterans’ legacy.

Then 14 community organizations and churches each solemnly placed a large, floral wreath in front of the monument. After the sacred benediction, Taps was performed by one of the Boy Scout Bugle Corps and the colors were retired, thus ending the service.

Celebrating Ehime Prefecture Products

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June 17, 2024

Celebrating Ehime Prefecture Products

By Barbara Mizoguchi
NAP Editor

On May 24, the Consul General of Japan Makoto Iyori and his wife, Yuko hosted a reception at their Seattle residence for a group from Ehime Prefecture on Shikoko Island in Japan. The group included special guests — Mr. Fumiaki Okahara, Mayor of Uwajima (city) in Ehime Prefecture; Ms. Eri Sakai, Director of the Mayor’s Office in Uwajima; Mr. Yuhiko Matsuda, Director of Economy and Labor Department for the Ehime Prefectural Government; and Mr. Koji Yoshioka, Industrial Policy Division of the Ehime Prefectural Government. The Ehime delegation was in town to promote their unique food products at the local Uwajimaya stores. Reception guests had the opportunity to taste three kinds of the Mikan orange juices and Sea Bream — a type of fish raised on Mikans resulting in the lack of a fishy odor.

left to right: Rex Hashimoto, Seattle Uwajimaya Store Manager; Stephanie Choi, Uwajimaya Corporate Office; Uwajima Mayor Okahara; Con. Gen. Iyori; Tomio Moriguchi, former Uwajimaya CEO and current NAP publisher; Mrs. Iyori; and Denise Moriguchi, Uwajimaya CEO.

Mayor Okahara said that the history of the Moriguchi family (Uwajimaya owners) “plays an important role to the [Uwajima] community.” Matsuda-san mentioned Uwajima has been interacting with the local Uwajimaya stores for several years due to the family-owned business originating from the area. Due to the pandemic, the Ehime group has not been able to return to the U.S. for the past six years. Sakai-san mentioned that Uwajima is located southeast of Shikoku. The city was originally built around a (1596-1601) castle that attracts large numbers of visitors annually. In the summer, it hosts Ushi-Oni Matsuri. This purification festival features a 16-foot-long creature made of palm fibers or red furs. The creature’s goal is to drive out evil spirits by shaking its head at each home visited. Yoshioka-san highlighted some other attractions in Uwajima and the surrounding area. Dogo Onsen is the oldest hot spring in Japan and is a must-visit. Also visit the Matsuyama Castle, Uchiko-za Kabuki Theatre, and the Shimanami Kaido — a bicycle route or walkway across the Seto Inland Sea from Ehime to Honshu prefectures. For additional information, see: visitehimejapan.com/en/.

“Sabaki Girls” from Uwajima Fisheries High School featured at the Seattle Uwajimaya Food Festival. Getting ready for the cutting of the 158 lbs. bluefin tuna.

Japanese-Style Gardens Played Key Role in Issei Life

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June 15, 2024

SeikeGarden_sign — Entry sign at Seike Japanese Garden. Photo credit: Linda Reeder

Japanese-Style Gardens Played Key Role in Issei Life

By Corinne Kennedy
NAP Contributor

This is a continuation from the May 24th issue.

Plant Nurseries and Greenhouses:
Zenhichi Harui (1886-1974) and son Junkoh Harui (1933-2008)

Entry sign at Seike Japanese Garden Photo credit Linda Reeder

Zenhichi Harui immigrated from Japan to Bainbridge Island in 1908. After working at the Port Blakely Mill in Washington, Zenhichi and his older brother Zenmatsu Seko started a small fruit and vegetable farm on the island. By the 1930s, they had obtained 30 acres, purchased in the name of a Nisei friend, where they built Bainbridge Gardens and Nursery. Their property included a farmhouse, small produce stand, plant nursery, and greenhouses. In addition to growing trees and shrubs, they were known for growing flowers, including prize-winning chrysanthemums. They built a large and very successful grocery store and Bainbridge Island’s first gas station. A skilled gardener, Zenhichi also created Japanese-style ornamental gardens on the property. Eventually the property included beautiful trees and shrubs, bonsai pines, fountains and ponds with koi fish. The gardens became a well-known attraction in the Puget Sound region.

The Harui family was able to escape World War II incarceration by moving to Moses Lake in Eastern Washington and agreeing to farm there throughout the war. The only Japanese American family in the area, they endured the small community’s racism and anger towards Japan and people of Japanese descent.

After the war, the family returned home to discover that the grocery building, which had been rented out, had been well maintained, but the nursery and gardens had been severely damaged. The property had been vandalized, nursery stock had been stolen or had died, the greenhouses collapsed, and the ornamental gardens were in a state of ruin. Zenhichi tried to save his business but was unsuccessful. Decades later, in 1990, his son Junkoh dedicated himself to restoring the business and gardens on their original site. The restored six-acre nursery has thrived. Junkoh’s 2008 passing left his wife Chris in charge, and when she died in 2014, their daughter Donna Harui became the nursery’s third-generation owner.

Shinichi Seike (c1888-1983) and sons: Des Moines Way Nursery and Seike Garden
Shinichi Seike immigrated to Seattle from Japan in 1919 and ran an import-export business. A decade later, he purchased 13 acres of land including a farmhouse near present-day SeaTac Airport with future plans to open a nursery there.

During World War II, the family was incarcerated in the camps at Heart Mountain in Wyoming and Tule Lake in northern California. However, all three sons served in the U.S. military. Toll, the middle son, was killed in action in France having served in the all-Japanese 442nd Regimental Combat Team — the most decorated military unit in U.S. history.

After the war, the Seike family returned to their property, which had been maintained by a German American family. Unlike most West Coast Japanese American families, they did not lose their property and belongings. In 1953, after sons Hal and Ben graduated from Washington State University with degrees in horticulture, the family opened Des Moines Way Nursery.

On their property, the Seike family also built a traditional Japanese-style garden as a family retreat and, even more importantly, as a memorial to their son Toll. It was designed by Shintaro Okada, a family friend and garden designer from Hiroshima. Construction began in 1961. The garden included major rockwork, a stream and large waterfall, ponds, bridges, stone lanterns and meticulously pruned plants.

This important garden was saved from destruction. It was purchased by the Port of Seattle to build SeaTac Airport’s third runway. Community leaders and state and local officials worked to raise funds to move the garden. In 2006, it was placed in the newly created Highline SeaTac Botanical Garden (HSBG) and became one of the largest relocations of a Japanese garden in U.S. history. The relocation included recreating the water features and moving the stonework, bridges and lanterns. Only the most valuable plants were saved. According to the HSBG’s website, “The garden is … a faithful recreation of designer Shintaro Okada’s intent and an historical amenity.” Admission is free.

Calendar from June 14th Print Issue

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June 13, 2024

JUNE

▪️Free Public Tour at Kubota Garden, Jun. 22, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at 9817 – 55th Ave S. Reservations at: https://signup.com/client/invitation2/secure/2970331974192380111/false#/invitation. (If tour is full, join the waitlist.)

▪️All Things Japanese Sale, Sat., Jun. 22, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and June 23, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Japanese Cultural & Community Center of WA (JCCCW), 144 S Weller St, Seattle. Free admission. https://www.jcccw.org/atjs

▪️ACRS Walk for Rice, Sun., Jun. 29,
9 a.m. – 12 p.m. at Seward Park, 5900 Lake Washington Blvd S, Seattle. Community fundraising three-mile walk. Information and registration: https://give.acrs.org/event/walk-for- rice-2024/e547615.

▪️Treasures Past and Present, Sat.,Jun. 29, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. at Uwajimaya Corporate Office, 4601 6th Ave S, Seattle. Outdoor parking lot fundraising event featuring individual and community groups selling pre-owned collectibles, artwork, handicrafts, and unique finds. Donated Asian snacks and treats for sale. Ayame Kai’s proceeds benefit Keiro NW elder care programs. https://keironw.org/nikkei-manor/ayame-kai-guild/.

JULY

▪️Tea Ceremony: Introduction to Chanoyu, Fri., Jul. 5, 1 p.m. – 3:40 p.m.
at Seattle Japanese Garden, 1075 E Lk Washington Blvd, Seattle. https://www.seattlejapanesegarden.org/events-calendar/2024/6/22/chaboshu.

▪️Seattle Zine Fest, Sun., Jul. 7, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. at 420 – 15th Ave E, Seattle. It is a FREE one-day celebration of zines and DIY culture. Relish in the local indie publishing and distribution. Zine tables with 60+ local artists, a make-your-own-zine workshop, a zine library, and more! https://www.eventbrite.com/e/seattle-zine-fest-2024-tickets-919137012547.

AUGUST

▪️Japanese Heritage Night with the Mariners baseball! $5 of every ticket sold will be contributed to the beneficiary non-profit organizations:

● Fri., Aug. 9 at 7:10 p.m., New York Mets. Beneficiary: Japanese Cultural & Community Center of WA. https://www.jcccw.org/.
● Sun., Aug. 11 at 1:10 p.m., New York Mets. Beneficiary: Japan Business Association of Seattle. https://www. jbaseattle.org.
● Sun., Aug. 25 at 1:10 p.m., New York Giants. Beneficiary: Seattle Betsuin Buddhist Temple fire. https:// seattlebetsuin.com.

U.S.-Japan Council and U.S. Department of State Launch Mineta Ambassadors Program

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May 31, 2024

U.S.-Japan Council and U.S. Department of State Launch
Mineta Ambassadors Program

By Alison Aadland
U.S.-Japan Council

The U.S.-Japan Council is proud to partner with the U. S. Department of State in launching the Mineta Ambassadors Program (MAP), an education endowment program to support exchange opportunities between U.S. and Japanese students.

The program exemplifies the shared mission of investing in the next generation of leaders to ensure the future of the U.S.-Japan relationship. Its name honors the legacy of the late and former U.S. Secretary of Transportation and Secretary of Commerce, the Honorable Norman Y. Mineta. In addition to his celebrated career of public service, he was a longtime member and leader within the U.S.-Japan Council. By creating opportunities for students to study abroad in Japan and the United States, the MAP will foster global mindsets, cultivate long-term bilateral ties, and bolster the strength and resilience of the special relationship between the U. S. and Japan.

The program is made possible by sponsors committed to the mission of U.S.-Japan student exchanges. Sponsors collectively raised over $11 million, quickly surpassing an original goal of $10 million. This has enabled more Japanese and American students to pursue international study. MAP sponsors include:
● Aflac
● Apple*
● The BlackRock Foundation*
● CrowdWorks, Inc.
● Dr. Hiroyuki and Mrs. Mikiko Fujita
● Goldman Sachs
● Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd., and Kawasaki Good Times Foundation
● Kikkoman Corporation
● Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group
● Oisix ra daichi Inc.
● PKSHA Technology Inc.
● Sony Group Corporation
● Suntory Holdings Limited
● The Toshizo Watanabe Foundation*
● Thierry Porté
● TOBE MAKI Foundation and Otsuka America, Inc.
● United States-Japan Foundation　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　*Top sponsors

The U.S.-Japan Council and the U.S.-Japan Council Japan will administer the MAP. The U. S. Embassy in Japan will serve as the U.S. government’s lead on guiding and supporting the program.

About the U.S.-Japan Council

The U.S.-Japan Council develops and connects global leaders to create a stronger U.S.-Japan relationship. Members of the nonprofit organization believe people-to-people relationships are a powerful way to bring together leaders in the U. S. and Japan to address and create solutions of mutual concerns. The council is a 501c3 nonprofit educational organization that was founded by a group of Japanese American leaders in 2009. In 2012, the U.S. – Japan Council Japan was created. In 2013, it became a Public Interest Corporation (koeki zaidan hojin).

Story Pole Dedication Ceremony

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May 30, 2024

p8-1 — Left to right: David Bean (Tib Stubs Teeb' Stobsh) and Former Chairman of the Puyallup Tribe; and Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell; Dan Friday (cull cull t kwul kwul tu), and Lummi Nation Council Member Nickolaus Lewis (Juts Kadim).

Story Pole Dedication Ceremony

By Barbara Mizoguchi & Karin Zaugg Black
NAP Contributor

Readers may recall a dedication ceremony in Kobe, Japan last month. It was attended by several Seattle, Washington delegates from the City of Seattle, Port of Seattle, Seattle-Kobe Sister City Association, Washington Secretary of State office, members of the Puyallup Tribe and Lummi Nation, and even the NAP Japan trip participants. The ceremony was dedicated to a new Coast Salish Story Pole replacing one that stood outside the Kobe City Hall for 54 years. Qwalsius – Shaun Peterson, artist of the Puyallup Tribe was commissioned in 2017 to create a new gift. It represents Washington’s relationship with Kobe, both as a sister city and a sister port. Shaun also took inspiration from the former story pole carved by Lummi Nation artist kwul-kwul’tw Joseph Hillaire.

Left to right: David Bean (Tib Stubs Teeb’ Stobsh) and Former Chairman of the Puyallup Tribe; and Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell; Dan Friday (cull cull t kwul kwul tu), and Lummi Nation Council Member Nickolaus Lewis (Juts Kadim).

1961 decaying pole laying in the Kobe Municipal Arboretum near the Seattle Forest to let it go back to nature.” Both photos by Brian Chu Photography.

As a result, we are able to share portion of the emcee’s script:
“Good afternoon. Welcome, distinguished guests, Seattle, Washington delegation and Kobe, Japan friends, I am Karin Zaugg Black, past president of the Seattle-Kobe Sister City Association, International Relations Liaison at the Port of Seattle, and proud past staff member of Kobe City Hall. I am honored to be your emcee for this special event.

Let me start by acknowledging our dignitaries. From Kobe, Kobe Mayor Kizo Hisamoto, Kobe City Assembly Chairman Yasunaga Bo, and U.S. Consul General of Osaka-Kobe, Consul General Jason Cubas. From Seattle: Secretary of State Steve Hobbs and his wife Pam Hobbs, Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell and his wife Joanne Harrell, Port of Seattle Commissioner Sam Cho, Port of Seattle Executive Director Steve Metruck, Seattle Deputy Mayor Adiam Emery, Lummi Nation Council Member Nickolaus Lewis.

I want to point out the logos of our organizers and supporters, and thank each of them: the City of Kobe, City of Seattle, Port of Seattle, Seattle-Kobe Sister City Association and key staff members who have worked on this for the last seven years; the Lummi Nation and Puyallup Tribe for embarking on this cross-cultural exchange project with us; and Delta Air Lines for its support.

As we prepare to start our dedication ceremony for the new Story Pole, let us first welcome all of you and identify those who are called today to be witnesses for this historic event.

Per tribal custom, at the dedication and blessing of a new Story Pole, witnesses are called to observe today’s proceedings, and then commit to share their experience with their families and communities when they return home. This is an important part of the tradition of oral history story telling of the Coast Salish people. We will call up the five witnesses to the stage one by one, where they will have a blanket wrapped around them and a token of gratitude will be pinned on their blankets by Maile (Mai Leh) Reynon, Native Hawaiian and a member of the Puyallup Tribal community, and Roxanne Murphy, Senior Manager, Tribal Relations for the Port of Seattle, and member of the Nooksack Tribe.

It is my pleasure to invite Puyallup tribal elder David Bean (Tib Stubs Teeb’ Stobsh), former Chairman of the Puyallup Tribe to offer an opening prayer.

I would like to explain a bit about the history of the original Friendship Pole. Carved by Lummi Nation Joseph Hillaire in 1961 as a gift from the people of Seattle to the people of Kobe. Seattle Mayor Gordon Clinton, who established the Seattle-Kobe sister city relationship with Kobe Mayor Haraguchi in 1957, commissioned Joseph Hillaire to carve the Friendship Pole. Joseph Hillaire carved some of the pole in Seattle and then finished the carving here in Kobe at its location next to the Flower Clock by Kobe City Hall buildings. Numerous school groups took excursions to come and watch him carve, and he participated in the Kobe Matsuri parade as our delegation did yesterday. His Friendship Pole stood as a symbol of our sister city ties and a gateway to learn about Coast Salish tribal culture and the Seattle region from 1961-2015 – over 54 years.

The reciprocal gift from Kobe to Seattle is the well-known Kobe Bell which was given in 1962 in honor of Seattle hosting the World’s Fair. It sits in a prominent location at the Seattle Center.

Just as Hillaire’s pole has been a symbol of our sister city ties in Kobe, the Kobe Bell is a symbol for us in Seattle. Its location has been a gathering place for the Seattle people over the years, most notably after the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake in 1995, where Seattle people gathered and rang the Kobe Bell, and prayed for the over 6,300 people who lost their lives.

In 2015, the City of Kobe consulted with City of Seattle and the Seattle-Kobe Sister City Association to explain that the Hillaire-carved pole had been damaged by weather and age. We determined to lay it in the forest, in the Kobe Municipal Arboretum, near the Seattle Forest to let it go back to nature.

We then started discussions about creating a new Story Pole gift to symbolize our continued ties. In 2017 for the 60th sister city / 55th sister port anniversary, Seattle City Council president Bruce Harrell (now Mayor) announced the commissioning of Shaun Peterson of the Puyallup Tribe to create a new gift.

Seven years later, we are very excited to be dedicating this new Story Pole, “Honoring our Connection.”

May I please have the Puyallup Tribal members come to share a celebration song with us.

Now for the blessing of the Story Pole. May I please have Lummi Nation tribal elder Lawrence Solomon (See – ah – tah – luck), former chairman, and great grand nephew of Joseph Hillaire) to the stage.

Here I will explain that Roxanne Murphy will be placing eagle down over the cedar branch at the base of the Story Pole as a form of protection and to honor the cedar tree that has become this Story Pole. On the count of three, Mayor Harrell and tribal leaders will pull on the rope.

I would like to call our Lummi Nation and Puyallup Tribal representatives to come together and offer us a closing song.

As we close, I would like to let you know, that our tribal members will be handing out commemorative gits to each of you as a thank you. We would like to thank Ms. Connie McCloud, Puyallup Tribe Heritage Division Director, and her team at the Puyallup Tribe Cultural Program for hand carving these commemorative paddles. The paddle represents the Puyallup tribal culture, a canoe family culture, and the generosity as a generous and welcoming people of the Puyallup Tribe. We also want to thank Debbie Peterson, mother of Qwalsius-Shawn Peterson, for donating the beads for the paddle necklaces, and Maile (MAI LEH) Reynon for beading all the necklaces.

Shinka: Evolution Revolution

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May 29, 2024

Glenn-Mitsui-Shinka-copy — Above : Glenn Mitsui standing in front of his painted daruma image on display in the exhibition. Photo by Sammy Davis.

Shinka: Evolution Revolution

By Glenn Mitsui
NAP Contributor

▲Glenn Mitsui standing in front of his painted daruma image on display in the exhibition.
Photo by Sammy Davis.

The new exhibit at the LeMay–America’s Car Museum in Tacoma, Washington explores the evolution of the Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) cars and their influence on the global market. There is a familiarity to these cars because who didn’t start out driving a Civic, Accord, Celica or Supra back in the day?

The exhibit is called Shinka which means evolution in Japanese. Gary Yamamoto, the Executive Director of the museum had a vision to create an immersive experience for attendees. Steering the creative direction as the exhibit designer is me whose aim was to craft a narrative journey through the museum. This is the first time that the museum has dedicated the entire First Floor to a showcase gallery which is about the size of a football field. My creative goal was to showcase the cars with a backdrop of Japanese culture and artwork to convey the spirit of the automobiles.

As you enter Shinka, the idea of evolution is represented by the journey from late 12th century Japan to the neon lights of modern day Tokyo. Each car has a story to be told. I strove to tie the story of each car to its artistic environment. Kei cars which are the smallest category of legal automobiles are paired with wire bonsai trees.

Design inspiration was drawn from samurai culture, calligraphy, traditional wood craftsman, sumi brush work, origami, Hokusai (painter and printmaker of the 17th and 18th century) and Japanese anime. To do this, I had to enlist the help of a number of local artists and craftsmaen to breathe authenticity into the environment.

▲Kominka (traditional countryside-style house) designed and built by Glenn Mitsui as a background to the cars on display.
Photo by Sammy Davis.

The community support from my friends and family was overwhelming. My cousin Kiyoshi Ina made the two taiko drums that frame the entryway Shinka banner. (He drove them up from San Francisco, California.) The drums also frame a samurai helmet on loan from the office of the Consulate-General of Japan in Seattle. Dean Miyauchi, a craftsman in automobile body and paint, crafted a four-foot golden Daruma (usually a hollow, round, traditional, Japanese doll modeled after Bodhidharma – founder of the Zen tradition of Buddhism) with RS Watanabe eight-spoke R type wheels (vintage looking wheels designed for racing) as its eyes. My friend Kyfu Bonsai made three 18-inch wire bonsai trees, each representing 90 hours of work. Craig Yamamoto (Gary’s father) created the wooden signs which were made in the traditional woodworking style without nails. Paper artist Akemi Yamane made a six-foot paper crane painted in the black and gold theme of the exhibit. I utilized 18 monitors throughout the exhibit to bring motion design to the environment. On an eight-screen monitor wall, I enlisted the help of motion designer Terry Wakayama to craft a video that would span the entire length of the wall. Lori Matsukawa graciously lent her wedding kimono for the exhibit out of her love of sharing her culture. Sharing culture became the unofficial theme of the exhibit. To better understand the JDM car culture, I sought the help of Walter Franco, the co-founder of NAMSAYIN, a lifestyle brand encompassing car culture, design and clothing. “Shinka is such an important exhibit because it acknowledges a car community that was seen as just a trend. The cars on display play an important role for not just American car culture but a diverse group of car enthusiasts in age and many different cultural backgrounds”. Walter Franco – Namsayin

Of course, the stars of the exhibit are the actual cars. Near the entrance you will see a 1967 Toyota 2000 GT valued at close to one million dollars that sits on top of a Zen garden with Mount Fuji in the background. Close by is a 1971 Nissan Skyline GTX which is very rare because the Yakuza (organized crime syndicates) revered this model and “strongly suggested” it not be exported out of Japan. There are close to 50 JDM cars in Shinka with two exhibit changes planned in the year-long run. My favorite car in the exhibit, a Datsun 240Z which is the car I owned when I was much younger.

“Sitting with Gary and Walter on opening day, we watched the crowd flow in and I felt joy because of the diversity that was flowing into the museum. I realized the exhibit had meaning beyond the cars, it was about representation.”

Fifth Annual Haiku Winners Celebrated at Mukai Farm & Garden

By

Leah Mann

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May 28, 2024

Fifth Annual Haiku Winners Celebrated at Mukai Farm & Garden

By Leah Okamoto Mann
NAP Contributor

On April 28, winners were announced at the Haiku Festival Finale at Mukai Farm & Garden on Vashon Island. The festival received 103 haiku from 12 countries around the world. This year, Vashon poet Ann Spiers evaluated each poem using criteria developed by Poetry Nation, a global community of amateur poets. The finale featured readings from Seattle’s civic poet Shin Yu Pai and Vashon poet Thomas Hitoshi Pruiksma.

The prize winners are listed below:

▪️Category: Heritage
First Place: Geoffrey Philp (Jamaica)
Second Place: Grace McRae (USA)
Third Place: Brit Myers (USA)

▪️Category: Nature
First Place: Cezar Ciobica
Second Place: Shiva Bhusal (Nepal)
Third Place: Rick Clark (USA)

▪️Category: Reflections
First Place: Chen-ou Liu (Canada)
Second Place: Renée Roman (USA)
Third Place: Monica Kakkar (India/ USA)

▪️Category: Social Justice
First Place: Valentina Ranaldi-Adams (USA)
Second Place: Beata Czeszejko (Poland)
Third Place: Melinda Dubbs (USA)

▪️Category: Young Poets (Ages 1-12)
First Place: Cedar Olson (USA)
Second Place: Griffin Davies-Harkins (USA)
Third Place: Ashley Schloss (USA)

▪️Category: Young Poets (Ages 13-18)
First Place: Teo Contac (France)
Second Place: Axel Codd (USA)
Third Place: Eljohn Roque Santosildes (Philippines)

OMB Updates Language on Ethnic Communities

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May 27, 2024

OMB Updates Language on Ethnic Communities

By White House AANHPI Initiative

The White House Office of Management and Budget took some long overdue steps this March to allow ethnic groups to better self-identify when the government collects information on race and ethnicity. It was the first change in rules around data collection in 27 years.

The revisions came after a working group held 94 listening sessions, read through more than 20,000 public comments and held three virtual townhalls to get a sense of how the data collection rules needed to change.

Under the new rules, people could select as many ethnicities as they identify with and not be confined to just one ill-fitting group.

The OMB also plans to form an Interagency Committee on Race and Ethnicity Statistical Standards to better grasp the evolving way people define themselves.

This is part of the Biden White House’s efforts to better serve the Asian American and Pacific Islander communities, as well as other ethnic groups, White House officials say.
The Biden-Harris Administration says it is committed to improving longstanding federal data collection and reporting practices that historically have lacked appropriate disaggregation. This has too often contributed to painful and enduring stereotypes, obscured disparities within AANHPI communities and failed to measure, reflect and be responsive to the diversity of AANHPI experiences.

US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy, a vice admiral in the United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, tries his hand at taiko drumming at the the White House Initiative on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders celebration held on May 13.

In April 2022, the White House released recommendations for increasing the collection of data to measure equity and better represent the diversity of the American people including AANHPI communities. The March changes built on this progress.

The Biden-Harris Administration is also reducing barriers for people with limited English proficiency by strengthening federal language access services. It ensures information on government programs, services and benefits are provided in multiple languages. The president’s fiscal year 2025 budget builds on these efforts with funding to expand federal language access capacity.

The Biden-Harris Administration has mobilized over $1 billion in new investments to increase support for programs to bridge divides and counter hate-fueled violence. It also established an interagency group to counter antisemitism, Islamophobia and related forms of bias and discrimination. In November 2023, the White House announced plans to develop the first-ever U.S. National Strategy to Counter Islamophobia, an effort to address all forms of hate, discrimination and bias against Muslim, Sikh, South Asian and Arab American communities.

The Biden-Harris administration has also taken steps to improve the business climate for businesses owned by Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. In January 2023, in collaboration with the Small Business Administration, the National Asian/Pacific Islander American Chamber of Commerce & Entrepreneurship, and federal, state, and local partners, the White House launched a series of regional economic summits. This is to connect Asian American and Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander business owners, entrepreneurs, and community leaders directly with federal resources such as contracting and employment opportunities.

In September 2023, President Biden issued the first-ever White House proclamation to recognize National Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-serving institutions. These schools and organizations confer almost 50% of associate degrees and nearly 30% of baccalaureate degrees upon all AANHPI people in the United States. The Biden-Harris Administration delivered $5 billion in ARP funds to support these insitutions.

In September 2023, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced $8 million in grants to train medical professionals. The funding provides culturally and linguistically appropriate care for individuals with limited English proficiency, including those from AANHPI communities.

Some moves have been made by the Biden administration to better acknowledge the role of native Hawaiians. For the first time, the U.S. Department of Interior requires formal consultation with Native Hawaiians. In February 2024, the departmebnt announced new guidance on the use of the Hawaiian language in commemoration of Mahina ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi or Hawaiian Language Month. In December 2023, The White House Council on Native American Affairs completed a Best Practices Guide for Tribal and Native Hawaiian Sacred Sites, and DOI issued a final rule to provide a process for returning human remains and sacred or cultural objects to Tribal Nations and Native Hawaiian organizations.

In September 2023, the National Endowment for the Humanities announced the Pacific Islands Cultural Initiative. It committed $1.3 million in initial funding to fortify cultural heritage and resilience in American Samoa, Guam, Hawaii and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. Since 2021, the National Endowment for the Arts has also distributed nearly $6 million in federal funding in Hawaii.

In April 2023, with the support of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the U.S. Department of Hawaiian Home Lands launched a tenant-based rental assistance program for kupuna (elders). In February 2024, HUD announced a final rule to provide more affordable housing options to Native Hawaiians, allowing more families to reside on the Hawaiian home lands.

Japanese-Style Gardens Played Key Role in Issei Life

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May 26, 2024

p1-Image_20240519_175611_833 — Portrait of Fujitaro Kubota.

Japanese-Style Gardens Played Key Role in Issei Life

By Corinne Kennedy
NAP Contributor

Japanese immigrants (Issei) to the Pacific Northwest initially found migratory work in our region’s seasonal, extractive economy, laboring on railroads, in lumber camps, Alaska canneries, and Pacific Northwest hop farms. The Issei and their American-born children (Nisei) later found more settled work in agriculture, notably growing vegetables and berries, and in running small businesses including laundries, restaurants, and small stores and hotels especially those located in their area’s Japantowns (Nihonmachi). Less well-known or documented is their establishment of horticulturally-related businesses and creation of Japanese-style gardens. These gardens were built not only to promote their businesses but also to express the creators’ cultural heritage and to provide settings for community gatherings. These were significant contributions to the Japanese American community and to the development of Pacific Northwest horticulture, garden design, and public parks.

Butoh performed on the Soribashi (red, arched bridge) in Kubota Garden.

What follows are the stories of a small sampling of those businesses (landscaping companies, plant nurseries, and greenhouses), the individuals and families who operated them, and the Japanese-style gardens they created. In addition, I discuss two other businesses (a farm and a restaurant), whose owners also created significant Japanese-style gardens.

Landscape Contractors/Gardeners:

The list below includes the three Japanese American landscape contractors chosen by garden designer Jūki Iida to build the Seattle Japanese Garden (1959-1960). Their names are listed on a poster displayed this month on the bulletin board in the Garden’s entry courtyard. In recognition of Asian American Native Hawai’ian Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month, the poster celebrates many of the Asian Americans involved in the Garden’s beginnings. It is also posted on the Resources page of the Seattle Japanese Garden website.

●Richard Yamasaki (1921-2008)
●William Yorozu (1914-2006)
●Kazuo Ishimitsu (1929-2018)
●Sadamu Ishimitsu (died 1970)
●Fujitaro Kubota (1880-1973) and son Tom
●Kubota (1917-2004): Kubota Gardening Company and Kubota Garden

Fujitaro Kubota pruning in one of his trees on his property. Photos courtesy of the Kubota Garden

Fuijtaro Kubota (1880-1973) was the most well-known Issei owner of a landscaping business in the region and Kubota Garden is likely one of the most well-preserved U.S. examples of an early Japanese-style garden built by an immigrant. Fujitaro immigrated to the U.S. from Japan in 1906, and prior to World War I, worked in a sawmill and on a farm. He also managed hotels and apartment buildings. Later, he worked for friends in the gardening business before establishing the Kubota Gardening Company in 1923.

Fujitaro initially purchased five acres of South Seattle swampland for his home and business. Since it was illegal for Japanese immigrants, (who were not eligible for citizenship) to own land, the property was purchased in the name of a friend’s Nisei son.

Eventually the property was transferred to his American-born oldest son, Takeshi. Over the years, additional parcels were purchased and the property expanded to 20 acres. The family grew plants there for their business, and Fujitaro created a Japanese-style display garden. Although it was not a public garden, it served as a gathering place for the Japanese American community. Neighbors and people not of Japanese descent were also welcomed.

Fujitaro Kubota working at Seattle University campus. Photo courtesy of Densho.

In 1942, U.S. Executive Order 9066 mandated the evacuation and incarceration of 120,000 people of Japanese ancestry living on the West Coast. The Kubota family was incarcerated at the Minidoka camp in Idaho, where Fujitaro oversaw the camp grounds. His second son Tom, who served in U.S. Military Intelligence, was not incarcerated.

During the war years, the City of Seattle attempted to repossess the Kubota property but was ultimately unsuccessful. The house was rented and maintained but the garden was not. After the Kubota family’s return to Seattle, repairing it took nearly four years of intensive labor. During this period, Fujitaro was able to rebuild his landscaping business and in the process, transformed the large property into a drive-through nursery/garden. Clients could view his designs and choose plants for their own gardens.

Eventually, Kubota focused his business efforts on garden design and construction rather than maintenance. His designs adapted Japanese design principles to American culture, rather than recreating traditional Japanese gardens. Fujitaro and his son Tom built gardens for institutions, companies, and private residences including the Bloedel Reserve on Bainbridge Island, Seattle University’s campus, the Rainier Club, The Seattle Times property, Seattle Center, and the Blethyn residence. As a consultant, he also provided a cost estimate for the creation of the Seattle Japanese Garden.

After Fujitaro’s death in 1973, Tom maintained the landscaping business but once again the garden declined, in part due to changing economic conditions and developmental pressures. Designated a Seattle landmark in 1981, the property was sold to the City of Seattle in 1987. It then opened as a public park and is maintained by Seattle Parks and Recreation and the Kubota Garden Foundation. It is popular and beloved by visitors who pay no admission charge.

2024 Shin Nikkei Jin Invitation Program

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May 25, 2024

By Hiro Tojo
Consulate-General of Japan in Seattle

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan will resume the Shin Nikkei Jin Program that has been suspended for the past several years due to the pandemic. This highly competitive program sponsors a group of three Japanese American high school students from across the United States to travel to Japan August 19- 27. This is an opportunity to learn various aspects of Japan (politics, economy, society, history, culture, language, etc.) and promotes mutual understanding and exchanges between Japanese and young Japanese Americans.

In order to qualify, applicants must be:
●Japanese American high school students
(2024 graduates are also eligible to apply [GS1] )
●Individuals with multiracial backgrounds are highly encouraged to apply
●Individuals who have a strong interest in developing Japan-U.S. relations and exchanges ●between Japan and the Japanese American community
●Individuals who hold United States citizenship and who do not hold Japanese citizenship
●Individuals who reside in the United States
●Individuals who have not previously participated in a program sponsored by the Japanese government

The following conditions must be observed:
●Participants are required to attend every event on the trip and be physically capable of keeping up with a busy program.
●Participants are required to hold a valid U.S. passport during the trip, or get or renew a valid U.S. passport by June 30.
●Family members are not permitted to accompany participants during the trip.
●Participants are not permitted to extend their stay in Japan.

The expenses covered by the Japanese government are:
– round-trip air ticket (economy class) between the U.S. and Japan (airport tax, fuel surcharge included)
– transportation fees within Japan
– hotel and meals
– admission to facilities
– insurance

The expenses not covered are:
– passport issuance fee
– transportation fee between part- icipant’s home and the nearest airport
– communication expenses
– expenses of hotel services, such as laundry
– expenses of anything used for private purposes

The itinerary in Japan is scheduled to include a visit to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, tours of Tokyo and a local city, and a homestay experience ( two nights).

Application deadline is at 11:59 PM on Friday, June 14. Send to:

Consulate-General of Japan in Seattle　Mr. Hiro Tojo,
hiroaki.tojo@se.mofa.go.jp
(206) 682-9107 ext. 114

As this is a highly selective program accepting participants from across the United States, applicants are encouraged to provide ample detail when completing the application, highlighting what qualities, experiences, and future goals make them exceptional candidates for the program and for fostering the Japan-U.S. friendship.

For further information, please contact Hiro Tojo, hiroaki.tojo@se.mofa.go.jp,
(206) 682-9107, ext. 11

2024 Shin Nikkei Jin Program Description – https://www.seattle.us.emb-japan.go.jp/files/100666320.pdf.

2024 Shin Nikkei Jin Application Form – https://www.seattle.us.emb-japan.go.jp/files/100666321.pdf.

Calendar from May 24th Print Issue

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May 24, 2024

MAY

● Confronting Hate Together Exhibition, Ongoing — June 30 at Wing Luke Museum. Explores hate, bigotry, antisemitism and racism in the community through a local and regional lens. https://www.wingluke.org/cht.

●NVC Memorial Day Service — Nisei Veterans Committee holds its annual Memorial, Mon, May 27, 10:00am-11:00am
Day Service next to the Nisei Veterans War Memorial monument in Lake View Cemetery, 1554 15 th Ave E, Seattle.
nvcfoundation.org/lif_event/nvc-memorial-day-program-2024/.

● Seattle Japanese Language School, registration opens May 28 for summer quarter. Adult classes begin the week of June 23. https://www.jcccw.org/classes/japanese-language-school.

JUNE

● Point Defiance Park, Point Defiance Flower & Garden Festival, Sat, June 1, 11 am-6 pm. Enjoy garden festival experiences, tours, workshops, speakers, food, drinks, music and Japanese architecture garden.
https://www.metroparkstacoma.org/ptdflowergardenfest/#festival-experiences.

● Seattle Japanese Garden, Ikebana Demonstration, Thu, June 6, 4:30 pm – 5:30 pm. Learn flower arrangement from an instructor at the Tateuchi community room in the garden. Free, https://www.seattlejapanesegarden.org/events-calendar/2024/6/6/ikebana.

● WAMU Theater, ITZY “Born To Be,” Thu, June 6, 8 pm. ITZY is coming to Seattle for a world concert. ITZY is a K-pop girl group presented by JYP, the same company as TWICE and NiziU. $152~, www.wamutheater.com/events/itzy-2024.

● Lake Union Park, Seattle Dragon Boat Festival, Sat, June 8, 8 am. Watch the annual celebration of colorful dragon boat racing where teams from the region compete on Lake Union. With thrilling races, cultural performances, and food vendors, it is a vibrant event uniting participants and spectators to enjoy the sport and celebrate Asian culture. https://www.seattleflyingdragons.org/general-race-information.html.

● Bellevue Botanical Garden, Chado demonstration and Chabana exhibition, Sun, June 9, 11 am – 3 pm. Join us for an enlightening Japanese tea ceremony presented in collaboration with Chado Urasenke Tankokai Seattle Association. Free, https://bellevuebotanical.org/event/chado-demonstration-and-chabana-exhibition/.

●Summer Picnic at Lake Sammamish!　Sun, June 16 th , 10:30 am – 1:30 pm, Free. Lake Sammamish State Park, 2010 NW Sammamish Rd, Issaquah by Japan Business Association of Seattle and Japan-America Society of the State of Washington BYOL (Bring Your Own Lunch) style picnic but with local vendors providing Japanese and American picnic bites and refreshments! Tents set up with reserved space under the Rotunda. Available paid parking helps support maintenance of state parks (or free with a Discover Pass). Can bring extra drinks to share. Register to help determine head count for sponsors and vendors:
https://www.simpletix.com/e/potluck-summer-picnic- tickets-169990 .

● JCCCW All Things Japanese Sale 2024, Sat, June 22, 10 am-5 pm, Sun, June 23, 10 am-2 pm. https://www.jcccw.org/atjs

●Treasures Past and Present　Sat, June 29 th , 10am – 2pm. Uwajimaya Corporate Office , 4601 Sixth Ave S, Seattle by Ayame Kai (Volunteer Auxiliary of Keiro Northwest) Outdoor parking lot event selling pre-owned collectibles, artwork, handicrafts including boro and sashiko items, and unique finds. Donated Asian snacks/treats for sale. Proceeds benefit Keiro NW elder care programs. For more info, see: https://keironw.org/nikkei-manor/ayame-kai-guild/

The Legacy Project by the Seattle Japanese American Citizens League

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May 17, 2024

0K9A8183 — The Seattle delegation poses for a group photo after parading through the streets of Kobe for the Kobe Matsuri on April 22.

The Legacy Project by the Seattle Japanese American Citizens League

By Kyle Kinoshita
For The North American Post

May is Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Among the many celebrations, we look back on how our Japanese ancestors met and overcame the challenges they encountered upon landing here, and the generations after them. The Legacy Project of the Seattle Japanese American Citizens League (JACL) captured many of these stories in documenting its 100 year-plus history.

The Seattle delegation poses for a group photo after parading through the streets of Kobe for the Kobe Matsuri on April 22.

Picture being a member of the Seattle’s Nikkei (Japanese American) community in 1921. If you were born in Japan, you were not legally allowed to own your own house or the land it sits on. If you wanted to make this country your home and become a naturalized citizen, you would be told that only Whites are allowed to have this dream. You might manage to finish the University of Washington law school, but you would not be allowed to take the bar exam. Even if you were American-born living in Seattle. If you were told, “we don’t allow your kind” at a restaurant, swimming pool or any establishment, -it was perfectly legal.

This was the impetus behind the Seattle Progressive Citizens League in 1921 formed by 19 Issei (first generation Japanese immigrant) and Nisei (American-born second generation). Today, it is known as the Seattle Chapter JACL. The founders of the 1921 organization were instrumental in forming the national Japanese Americans Citizens League in 1929 and sponsoring its first convention here in Seattle in 1930.

Saving a buried history—The Legacy Project. Since then, the Seattle JACL has been involved in more than 100 years of advocacy and activism supporting Japanese Americans and other communities. Fast forward to 2021—how to celebrate the centennial of this pioneering Asian American civil rights organization,especially when the memory of our current members only goes back several decades? To top it off, try to pull it off in the middle of a global pandemic.

This is where the creative vision of Bill Tashima, longtime Seattle JACLer and past chapter president,kicked in. What followed was the inception of The Legacy Project, initiated in 2021 capturing the rich (and for many members, unknown) history of Seattle JACL. It was only after the completion of its three major components did it sink in. To its participants, without it a century of history might have been lost for future generations.

The beginnings of the project were anything but straightforward. Much of Seattle JACL’s history lay buried in dozens of boxes in the basement of the University of Washington’s (UW) Suzallo Library. Still, more of it was contained in the unwritten memories of the Seattle JACL leaders of past decades.Thanks to several grants and almost 30 diligent community members (Densho staff, University of Washington faculty, Suzallo librarians and college student interns) who collaborated on the project, there is now a huge treasure trove of knowledge about the Seattle JACL history and the many individuals who created the life of the chapter.

100 Years of Seattle JACL—A History of Advocacy and Activism for All. The first of three components ofThe Legacy Project is a nine-panel, traveling display detailing the significant events and people in the century-long history of the Seattle chapter. The panels detail the 1921 origins, the World War II incarceration, the building of a post-war community organization, connections to the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960’s, the role of strong women and youth leaders, and present-day support of social justice causes.

Community artist Erin Shigaki created a captivating format with text and photographs that draw in observers. The panels are designed to be very portable and can be quickly set up and taken down. Since the display was completed in fall 2021, the display has appeared at dozens of events, ranging from the Seattle Cherry Blossom Festival, colleges, city halls, school district central offices, and celebrations in the Asian-Pacific Islander community. Viewers are in awe of the vast amount of history contained in each of the panels, and presented in an attractive eye-catching format.

Oral histories from the past and present. Video interview recordings of the lives and activism of 21 Seattle JACL leaders are featured in a digital warehouse. Many are currently active or have been in the past three decades.Family memories of iconic Seattle JACL leaders who have passed on such as Phil Hayasaka, Aki Kurose, and Cherry Kinoshita were taped and included. These giants of our community were active in the civil rights and successful redress for the World War II incarceration. Through a partnership with Densho.org, the oral histories are housed on the website.Like the many other recordings on the site, there is an index of topic links so that rather than listening to the entire one and a half hour tape one click will take you directly to the part of their story you want to hear. The recorded interviews were conducted by student interns from UW professor Vince Schleitwiler’s Asian American Studies class. Debriefing afterwards about the experience, the student interns marveled at the amount of living history they learned from the JACL leaders. The 21 legacy oral histories have now joined over 200 other recordings of past JACLers.

A repository of decades of Seattle JACL newsletters. The third component of The Legacy Project is a fascinating window into bygone decades. A vast collection of Seattle JACL newsletters (some dating back to 1941 before the incarceration) have been scanned into a digital file accessed on the Densho.org website. A partnership of Densho.org staff and UW student interns painstakingly went through hundreds of newsletters and inputted the topics of articles into an accessible database. Even more remarkable, the name of every single person mentioned in any newsletter was entered. This feature allows, for example an interested, young community member to look up every time a grandparent was mentioned in a JACL newsletter in the 1960’s, ‘1970’s or ‘1980’s. A student could also conduct research on Seattle JACL’s involvement in the Japanese American redress or other civil rights issues. We are only beginning to realize the possibilities of how this resource can be beneficial.

Next steps. Seattle JACL continues to work on ways to share The Legacy Project (see inset). We hope in the future to highlight interesting stories from our history and of the dozens of individuals highlighted in The Legacy Project materials.

Accessing the Seattle JACL Legacy Project

▪️To arrange for our “100 Years of Activism and Advocacy” panel display, contact the chapter president Kyle Kinoshita at kinoshitakyle@hotmail.com.

▪️To listen to The Legacy Project oral histories, go to the Densho Digital Repository (https://ddr.densho.org) and enter “Seattle JACL” into the search box. Look at the “Format” box and select “Oral History” and then “Apply Filters”. Selecting “List View” will present all the names of the Seattle JACL leaders over past decades who have oral history recordings.

▪️To look at the Seattle JACL newsletters, go to the Densho Digital Repository (https://ddr.densho.org), and enter “Seattle JACL” into the search box. Look at the “Genre” box and select “Periodicals”, and then “Apply Filters”. Selecting “List View” will display the newsletters.

▪️To find a mention of an individual in the newsletters, go to the Densho Digital Repository (https://ddr.densho.org) and enter the name of the person you wish to find. Look at the “Genre” box and select “Periodicals”, and then “Apply Filters”. Selecting “List View” will provide a listing of the places the person is mentioned in any newsletter.

▪️For questions, contact chapter president Kyle Kinoshita at kinoshitakyle@hotmail.com.

NAP Tour Joins Kobe Matsuri, Visits Kyoto, Tokyo, Takayama

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Bruce Rutledge

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May 16, 2024

Kenzo_parade — Tour guides Kenzo and Bruce Rutledge pose for a selfie with Takumi Ohno.

NAP Tour Joins Kobe Matsuri, Visits Kyoto, Tokyo, Takayama

By Bruce Rutledge
NAP General Manager

Tour guides Kenzo and Bruce Rutledge pose for a selfie with Takumi Ohno.

Seattle showed up big for this year’s Kobe Matsuri, held on a rainy Sunday afternoon in April in downtown Kobe, Japan. To celebrate our ties with our oldest sister city, Mayor Bruce Harrell and his wife, Joanne, led an exuberant delegation through the streets.

Mayor Bruce Harrell and his wife, Joanne, lead the Seattle delegation through the streets of downtown Kobe. Courtesy of Brian Chu Photography

The group, which included representatives from the Puyallup and Lummi tribes, representatives from Seattle’s sister-city delegation and participants in the North American Post Japan spring tour, waved Kobe and Seattle flags and wore specially made T-shirts designed by Shaun Peterson, a member of the Puyallup tribe who also created the Coast Salish Story Pole now standing near Kobe City Hall.

Seattle and Kobe tied the sister-city knot in 1957, establishing one of the first sister-city relationships in the world.

Lummi leader Joseph Hillaire carved a story pole commemorating the friendship between Seattle and Kobe in 1961, but that pole deteriorated over the years, prompting the city to create a new one.

The 14 members of the North American Press Japan spring tour were thrilled to join the parade. Our schedule just happened to put us in nearby Kyoto on the weekend of the festival, so when the sister-city delegation invited us, we jumped at the chance.

NAP’s tours are back in full force after a pause during the COVID pandemic. We have held three of our Japan 101 tours since 2023. These tours are perfect for first-timers. We visit Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Takayama and Kanazawa. The Japan 101 tours are immersive — expect to put in at least 10,000 steps every day.

Our fall tour will be to Shikoku Island with a very special guest. Curious? Turn to page 5 to see who will be joining us! To get on our mailing list, drop us a line at japantour@napost.com.

Oldest Kenjinkai in Seattle, Hiroshima, Thrives

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May 16, 2024

By Mimi Shiraki
NAP Contributor

Hiroshima, the oldest Kenjinkai in Seattle, gathered at Terry’s Kitchen on March 2 for the group’s annual New Year’s party.

The Hiroshima Kenjinkai was established in 1901. The current president, Tsukasa Namekata, has been running the Kenjinkai for eight years. He founded the Pacific Rim Disease Prevention Center and served as a clinical associate professor at the University of Washington School of Public Health, retiring in 2016 before becoming president of the Kenjinkai.

Every August, coinciding with the anniversary of the Hiroshima atomic bomb, the Hiroshima Kenjinkai hosts a unique ceremony at the Betsuin Buddhist Temple.

Collaborating with the Jodo Shinshu temple, the Kenjinkai conducts a solemn memorial service honoring the victims of the bombing. During this time, Seattle also extends invitations to high school students from Hiroshima Prefecture.

The 2024 Shinnekai began with greetings from Namekata. Two scholarship awards were presented by two high school students. Commendations for longevity and hardship were awarded to octagenarian by Deputy Consul General Junichi Sumi. The party accelerated into entertainment; members and guests sang along with “Uye wo muite aruko” and “What a Wonderful World.” The event concluded with a bingo game complete with prizes.

Yamanashi to Impose Fee for Mount Fuji Climbers

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May 14, 2024

Yamanashi to Impose Fee for Mount Fuji Climbers

By the Yamanashi Prefectural Government
For The North American Post

Restrict Trail Access to Combat Overtourism daily admission cap and hours aim to reduce congestion and preserve the integrity of the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site. Beginning July 1, people climbing Mount Fuji via Yamanashi’s Fujiyoshidaguchi Trail (“Yoshida Route”) will be required to pay a 2,000-yen (equiv. $13 USD) trail entry fee. Yamanashi will install a trail gate for admission at the mountain’s Fifth Station. The gate will be closed from 4 p.m. to 3 a.m. each day — or may close earlier than 4 p.m. if admission reaches the daily cap of 4,000 visitors. The admission cap and trail hours will not apply to people with mountain hut reservations; however, they will be allowed in at any time regardless of visitor count though they are encouraged to enter the trail by 4 p.m.

Yamanashi Prefecture is implementing a series of restrictions for Mount Fuji’s most popular climbing route as a measure to curb overtourism. In recent years, the excessively crowded conditions on the trail have threatened the safety of hikers, the mountain’s environmental health and its significance as a place of worship — and in turn, Mount Fuji’s status as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site. The new rules are also intended to discourage the dangerous practice of “bullet climbing” — non-stop overnight climbing to the summit that caused many hikers to fall ill last summer.

“If you are climbing Mount Fuji, start the day early or be prepared to sleep in a hut. By limiting trail access, we are sending the message loud and clear,” Yamanashi Governor Kotaro Nagasaki said. “The new restrictions will allow us to implement comprehensive safety measures that can preserve the integrity of Mount Fuji, both as an iconic habitat of wildlife and as the spiritual symbol of Japan. ”

Mount Fuji, which straddles Yamanashi and Shizuoka prefectures has four climbing routes, including Yamanashi’s Yoshida Route. The number of Mount Fuji climbers during the last climbing season (July 1- Sept. 10, 2023) totaled 221,000 of which 137,236 people or 62 percent trekked via the Yoshida Route.

The prefecture will use the entry fee to help pay for trail patrolling, guiding hikers, interpreters’ support for foreign visitors, the operation and maintenance of the gate and trail, the Safety Office’s operation, and potential disaster response among other purposes. Hikers will also have the option of paying the existing voluntary maintenance fee of 1,000 yen ($6.50 USD), which helps fund the installation and operation of the First Aid Stations, temporary public restrooms, and other essential services.

YOSHIDA TRAIL RESTRICTIONS
(Effective July 1, 2024)

Trail Fee: 3,000 yen ($13) per person.
Option to pay an additional 1,000 yen ($6.50) toward the existing maintenance fee
program.
Admission Cap: 4,000 people per day.
Trail Closure: 4 p.m.-3 a.m. daily.
(*Gate may close earlier than 4 p.m.
if admission reaches 4,000 people.)

People with mountain hut reservations are EXEMPT from the trail hours and admission cap. (People with hut reservations are still encouraged to enter the trail by 4 p.m.)

2024 Climbing Season (Yoshida Trail above the Fifth Station): July 1 through
September 10
The Fifth Station is accessible year-round.

Additional Details & Updates: https://fujisan-climb.jp/en/index.html

Kagoshima Kenjinkai Enters New Era

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May 13, 2024

By Mimi Shiraki
NAP Contributor

With the passage of 117 years since its start, the Kagoshima Kenjinkai enters a new era this year under the leadership of its 15th president, Krystal Sakagami
The Kagoshima Kenjinkai began the New Year with a vibrant Shinnenkai at the Tukwila Community Center, with the background of nature in early April.

With the delicious food, guest speakers, entertainments, games and lots of chatting among members, the party united the group. This party paid tribute to the previous president, who served for 34 past years.

New president Krystal Sakagami said it’s disheartening to encounter the Kagoshima Kenjinkai membership dwindling, affecting both its members. Many long-standing members have aged out or passed away, resulting in a smaller group. Yet, there’s a renewed effort to welcome anyone interested in Kagoshima culture, especially the younger generation, to join the club. When this club was started, it was originally to support newcomers from Kyushu and Kagoshima settling in Seattle; the Kenjinkai has evolved from a support network to a social group. Now, their focus is on preserving and sharing Kagoshima’s culture open for anyone while fostering a sense of community among members. Activities like visiting older people, assisting families, and connecting with like-minded individuals through events are part of this effort. With the decline of many Kenjinkai or their merging with others, there’s a desire to maintain the identity of the Kagoshima Kenjinkai as a separate entity and becoming a non-profit organization soon.

The club actively would like to participate in Japanese community events, showcasing its culture primarily through food in the future. Kagoshima Kenjinkai welcomes new members and hopes to see you in upcoming events, including a picnic at Gene Coulon Park on 9/1 and a Bonenkai celebration in December.

Sakura Matsuri Still Going Strong in 45th Year

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May 12, 2024

By Mimi Shiraki
NAP Contributor

The Seattle Cherry Blossom & Japanese Cultural Festival, held at the Seattle Center from April 12 to 14, celebrated its 45th anniversary. Showcasing Japanese culture, educational programs, arts, martial arts, exhibits, kids’ activities, various workshops, delicious food, performances and Japan’s rich heritage, the festival provides a place to gather everyone in this Seattle community. This event started back on May 8, 1976, as a celebration of the bicentennial of the United States and the friendship between Japan and Washington State. As a token of that friendship, former Prime Minister Takeo Miki gave Seattle 1,000 cherry blossom trees, sparking the tradition of this awesome festival.

At Seattle Center, the Fisher Pavilion and Armory Stage took center stage, drawing crowds of people. Friday, being a weekday, saw fewer folks around, but the weekend was buzzing with people of all ages. The Fisher Pavilion was packed with group booths showcasing various Japanese prefectures, origami stations, traditional sweets stalls, food stands, sales of traditional ceramics, and displays of Japanese dolls, filling up every inch of space.

Outside, people were cooking up fresh yakisoba on giant hot plates, a dish that instantly transported folks back to Japan. Over at the Armory Stage, where there were food courts and such, impressive performances such as taiko drumming, judo, karate, sumo wrestling, aikido, martial arts and dance were showcased. People who hadn’t initially planned to attend the event and were just walking through were draw in.

White House Initiative for AAPI Month: ‘Bridging Histories, Shaping Our Future’

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May 11, 2024

By U.S. Department of Health and
Human Services

On April 24, the White House Initiative on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders (WHIAANHPI) and the Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center presented the joint 2024 theme for the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AA and NHPI) Heritage Month: “Bridging Histories, Shaping Our Future.”

Since the late 1970s, the United States has recognized the invaluable contributions of AA and NHPI communities each May. For more than a decade, the Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center and WHIAANHPI have collaborated to identify a national theme for AA and NHPI Heritage Month in consultation with the White House and community partners. Previous themes such as “I Am Beyond” (2014) and “Visible Together” (2023) have been embraced both by federal agencies and community-serving organizations. It has served as catalysts for meaningful dialogue around AA and NHPI identity, and for intergenerational connection, action and reflection.

The 2024 theme is an homage to ancestors and invites all Americans to delve into the legacies, triumphs and challenges that have shaped AA and NHPI communities. It embodies the spirit of our collective journey — one rooted in resilience and hope — and encourages forging intergenerational connections to honor the past and pave a durable path forward.

The White House and WHIAANHPI will use this theme to foster discussions during the May activities including a landmark celebration on May 13 at the Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium in Washington, DC. This historic convening uniting over 1,000 AA and NHPI leaders and spanning five presidential administrations will mark the 25th anniversary. It was establish as the White House Initiative and President’s Advisory Commission on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders during the Clinton Administration. Sign up to receive the livestream link here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/lasting-legacies-a-white-house-celebration-of-aa-nhpi-heritage-history-tickets-862093724537?aff=oddtdtcreator.
About the 2024 Theme: “Bridging Histories, Shaping Our Future”

As the nation observes Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AA and NHPI) Heritage Month in May, we reflect on the rich heritage and storied past. From Indigenous Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander communities whose wisdom and knowledge helped shape this country and continue to guide us today, immigrants and refugees who came to the American shores in search of better opportunities to the trailblazers who paved the way for progress across generations — those communities’ journey have been one of tragedy and triumph, adversity and resilience.

Throughout the month, embrace the interconnectedness of these stories and honor the visionaries who came before us. Commit to spotlighting the myriad ways diverse AA and NHPI communities have enriched every facet of American life. Continue the endeavor to build bridges across generations, experiences and cultures to forge a future where all can thrive.

The White House Initiative on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders (WHIAANHPI), established by President Joe Biden through Executive Order 14031, is charged with coordinating a whole-of-government agenda to advance equity, justice and opportunity for AA and NHPI communities. Learn more at hhs.gov/whiaanhpi.
The Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center (APAC), established in 1997, strives to ensure the comprehensive representation and inclusion of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders in the Smithsonian’s collections, research, exhibitions and programs. Through education initiatives, publications and public programs, APAC provides new avenues to document, celebrate and share the rich and diverse history, art and culture of AA and NHPI communities. Learn more at apa.si.edu.

Calendar from May 10th Print Issue

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May 10, 2024

MAY

▪️Japanese American Day of Remembrance at Washington State History Museum, TH, May 16, 3-8 p.m. washingtonhistory.org.

▪️Armory Food & Event Hall, A Glimpse of China, Sat, May 18, 10:30am, Join Chinese events with performances and traditional Chinese food., Free,
https://www.seattlecenter.com/events/featured-events/festal/a-glimpse-of-china

▪️Seattle Reign v. Orlando Pride Women’s Soccer, Asian American Native Hawaiian and Pacific at Lumen Field, Seattle.SU, May 19, 3 p.m.
https://www.lumenfield.com/events-tickets/seattle-reign

▪️Day of Exile ceremony at Ober Park on Vashon Island, SU, May 19, 2-5 p.m.
https://mukaifarmandgarden.org/.

▪️JAS-Net Karaoke 2024. Network the best possible way – through song! at 1603 Nagle Pl, Seattle.W, May 22, 6:15-9:00 p.m.
https://jassw.info/event-5697263
Questions? Contact the office at jassw@jassw.org or (206) 374-0180.

▪️Thinking about studying abroad in Japan? Explore opportunities at: Japanese College Fair 2024 Spring. T-TH, May 21-23, free, live webinar. Pre-registration required. Presented by Lighthouse magazine.
See: Japan-universities.com/en/event/collegefair_2024sp.html.

▪️Nisei Veterans Committee hosting the annual Memorial Day Service at the Nisei War Memorial Monument M, May 27, 10-11 a.m. Lake View Cemetery,
https://nvcfoundation.org/lif_event/nvc-memorial-day-program-2024/

▪️Unrivaled play written by Rosie Narasaki and directed by Mimi Katano at Seattle Public Theater, Performing May 10 to June 2,
https://www.seattlepublictheater.org/current-production.

JUNE

▪️Seattle Japanese Garden, Ikebana Demonstration, Thur, June 6, 4:30pm-5:40pm., Learn flowerarrangement instructor at the Tateuchi community room in the garden., Free,
https://www.seattlejapanesegarden.org/events-calendar/2024/6/6/ikebana

▪️Bellevue Botanical Garden, Chado demonstration and Chabana exhibition, Sun, June 9 ,11am -3pm., Join us for an enlightening Japanese Tea Ceremony, presented in collaboration with Chado Urasenke Tankokai Seattle Association., Free.,
https://bellevuebotanical.org/event/chado-demonstration-and-chabana-exhibition/

U.S.-Japan Security Alliance Celebrated at Consul General’s Residence

By