THE NATIONAL NEWSPAPER OF THE JACL May 19-June 1, 2017

» PAGE 7 75-YEAR ROUND TRIP Pilgrims travel to Topaz, Utah, on a special journey that offers healing and, more importantly, hope. » PAGE 4 WWII baseball relic now on display in Cooperstown, N.Y.

» PAGE 6 Judy K. Sakaki becomes president of Sonoma State University.

PHOTO: KIYOSHI INA

WWW.PACIFICCITIZEN.ORG #3299 / VOL. 164, No. 9 ISSN: 0030-8579 2 May 19-June 1, 2017 NATIONAL

HOW TO REACH US Email: [email protected] Online: www.pacificcitizen.org Tel: (213) 620-1767 JOIN JACL AT THE 48TH ANNUAL Mail: 123 Ellison S. Onizuka St., Suite 313 Los Angeles, CA 90012 NATIONAL CONVENTION STAFF Executive Editor Allison Haramoto Business Manager can History Museum’s acclaimed Susan Yokoyama By John Tobe, “Righting a Wrong: Japanese Production Artist 2017 Convention Chair Americans and WWII” exhibit. Marie Samonte n behalf of the JACL National Con- This powerful exhibit explores Circulation Eva Ting vention Committee, we are excited to a number of topics, including Ja- welcome you, your family, friends and panese immigration, day-to-day The Pacific Citizen newspaper (ISSN: 0030-8579) is published Ocolleagues to the 48th annual JACL National life in the internment camps, the semi-monthly (except once in Convention from July 6-9 in Washington, D.C. contributions of JA soldiers during December and January) by the This will be a particularly historic conventi- the war and redress. Japanese American Citizens League, Pacific Citizen, 123 on, as we will be marking the 75th anniversary Also at the exhibit, one can view Ellison S. Onizuka St., Suite 313 of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s signing of the actual Executive Order 9066, Ron Mori, co-president of the Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, CA 90012 Executive Order 9066, which led to the unjust historic images and personal items Periodical postage paid at L.A., chapter, and the Smithsonian’s Noriko Sanefuji CA incarceration of 120,000 people of Japanese from the camps, including some (right) with exhibit artifacts from “Righting a POSTMASTER: Send address ancestry during World War II. of which were donated by JACL Wrong: Japanese Americans and World War II” changes to National JACL, 1765 This year’s convention theme, “Our Story: members and their families. Sutter St., San Francisco, CA 94115 Resilience, Remembrance, Resolve,” encapsulates Another highlight will be an JACL President: Gary Mayeda JACL’s efforts to honor the past while also looking exclusive reception hosted by the Embassy Japanese descent during and after WWII. Interim Assistant Executive toward the future. of Japan at Ambassador Kenichiro Sasae’s Visiting the nation’s Capital also provides Director: Stephanie Nitahara One highlight of the convention will be a residence. Guests will experience picturesque opportunities to explore the many monuments, P.C. EDITORIAL BOARD private reception at the Smithsonian Ameri- views of the glass-walled koi pond and tea museums and sights located within walking Gil Asakawa, chairperson; Jody ceremony room, as well as enjoy traditional distance or easily accessed via public transpor- Mitori, MDC; Joy Goto, CCDC; Jim Japanese food prepared by the ambassador’s Duff, NCWNPDC; Chip Larouche, tation. We have planned several special booster PNWDC; Kayla Watanabe, IDC; personal chefs. activities, including a private docent-led tour of John Saito Jr., PSWDC; Juli During the convention, there will be a num- the National Japanese American Memorial to Yoshinaga, Youth rep. ber of compelling workshops and sessions. Patriotism. SUBSCRIBE One workshop will be “AAPI’s in the Media One of our favorite things about attending the Get a one-year subscription of and Arts.” Rob Buscher from the Philadelphia convention is meeting new people from across the Pacific Citizen newspaper at: Asian American Film Festival will partner with www.pacificcitizen.org or call the United States, Canada, Japan and internatio- (213) 620-1767 Rick Shiomi, founding director of Theater Mu, nally. While attendees have widely varied expe- ADVERTISE to moderate participatory discussion involving riences and background, we all come together To advertise in the Pacific Citizen, the significant strides Asian American Paci- call (213) 620-1767 or e-mail: at the convention to renew our support of civil [email protected] fic Islanders have made in the entertainment and human rights, freedom and the promotion business and examine the many areas that still of democracy. LEGAL No part of this publication may be need improvement. Please join us by adding your voice and reproduced without the express Another workshop topic is “Building presence. We look forward to welcoming all permission of the Pacific Citizen. Editorials, letters, news and the Coalitions Across Intersecting Identities of you to Washington, D.C., for a historic and opinions expressed by columnists and Communities.” Sarah Baker and Emi memorable experience. other than the national JACL president or national director Kamemoto of JACL’s National Youth/Student Yokoso! do not necessarily reflect JACL Council will co-facilitate this workshop on policy. Events and products advertised in the P.C. do not self-identification. The NY/SC will also be For more information and to register carry the implicit endorsement of The Japanese American Memorial to sponsoring a summit to discuss issues rela- for the convention, please visit www.jacl. the JACL or this publication. We reserve the right to edit articles. Patriotism ted to the incarceration of Latin Americans of org/2017convention. © 2017 Periodicals paid at Los Angeles, Calif. and mailing office.

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To avoid interruptions in delivery, please notify your postmaster to include periodicals in your change of address (USPS Form 3575) COMMENTARY May 19-June 1, 2017 3 NIKKEI VOICE A JA’S VIEW OF TRUMP AND JAPAN

But JAs should also keep an eye on what he does and how speaking with Xi for “10 minutes,” he now realizes that the he thinks about Asia and, in particular, Japan. relationship between China and the Korean peninsula isn’t His grasp of foreign relations is by all accounts his so simple. But that hasn’t stopped him from talking as if By Gil Asakawa weakest point. By intoning “America First” as the tagline China can control North Korea. Or else, he threatened, he’ll any Japanese Americans I know don’t pay for his campaign and now administration, Trump is purpose- act unilaterally with American military might. much attention to Japan, which I think is a pity. fully turning his back on the rest of the world. Yikes. Imagine how this trash-talk is going over in both I believe JAs should keep up with news from Trump alarmed anyone with an interest in Japan, for Japan and South Korea, which would be Kim’s first targets MJapan, and travel to Japan. A lot. instance, by suggesting during the campaign that Japan and if war breaks out. However, most JAs I know closely follow the news of South Korea might be better off developing their own nuclear Japan’s Abe was brave enough to be the first foreign Donald Trump’s presidency and what he’s doing in the U.S. weapons — a suggestion that’s anathema to the Japanese. leader to visit Trump after he was elected, even JAs — and others — have been concerned enough about He repeatedly growled about how Japan wasn’t paying before he was sworn in. Abe returned to visit Trump after his our president that this year’s Day of Remembrance events its share of the U.S. military’s presence in the country. He inauguration, spending a weekend with the president and across the U.S. were packed with much larger audiences than repeatedly criticized the Trans Pacific Partnership, or TPP, being involved in more unexpected controversy. in past years. That’s because Executive Order 9066 led to as a terrible trade pact. This opposition to the TPP has During a posh dinner at Mar-a-Lago, the news came in that the incarceration of 120,000 people of Japanese descent in already manifested itself — though to be fair, Hillary North Korea had fired a test missile that landed in the Sea American concentration camps. Clinton also said she’d veto it if she became president — and of Japan. Instead of moving into a private room to discuss Now with President Donald Trump signing a blizzard of Trump has backed out of the deal. the potential world crisis, Trump kept the dinner party at his executive orders, including two that are controversial and Trump symbolically embraced Taiwan’s independence by club’s restaurant, allowing gawking members (whose dues currently on-hold, one temporarily banning travel to the having a friendly phone call with the country’s leader, then to just join the club were doubled from $100,000-$200,000 U.S. from seven Muslim-majority countries and another later seemed to back down and cow in front of China’s Presi- when Trump won the presidency) to look on, peer at national that threatens to punish “sanctuary cities,” also blocked by a dent Xi Jinping and reaffirm the “One China Policy” that has security intelligence photos and briefings and shoot selfies federal judge, E.O. 9066 has a much heavier symbolic weight. been part of U.S. foreign policy for decades. He has also said with the soldier who carries the “football,” the code to the People are worried that what happened to Japanese repeatedly that China is a currency manipulator. nuclear trigger. Americans could happen again to Muslim Americans. Since meeting in person with Xi, he now says that China Donald Trump has turned the most important job in the So, Trump’s brief reign as president has already resulted in isn’t manipulating its currency after all. He has put a lot of world into a reality TV show. a lot more awareness of the Japanese American experience. faith into China’s ability to keep North Korea’s Kim Jong- Thanks, prez! un from doing anything rash. Trump admitted that after >> See JAPAN on page 12

LEGAL-EASE: AN ATTORNEY’S PERSPECTIVE LESSONS LEARNED FROM CARRIE FISHER AND DEBBIE REYNOLDS

By Staci Yamashita-Iida, Esq. trust as well. That means that in a matter of two days, Lourd remaining 50 percent at age 35.” ’m writing this article on May 4, commonly referred to became the beneficiary of up to $70 million. Alternately, you can give the Trustee broad discretion to as “‘Star Wars’ Day.” On this day, fans declare to one The case of Fisher and Reynolds may not seem dispense assets based on the beneficiary’s needs, particu- another, “May the Fourth be with you” — a pun on relatable; most of us do not have tens of millions of dollars to larly taking into consideration the beneficiary’s education, Ithe classic catchphrase, “May the Force be with you.” In bequeath to our children. However, it does serve as an health, maintenance and support. The beneficiary could, for celebration of this (unofficial) holiday, I’d like to focus on important (albeit exaggerated) reminder of the issues that example, use his or her inheritance to pay for college tuition one of “Star Wars’” most iconic stars. may arise with our estates. but not to buy a brand-new Ferrari. On Dec. 27, 2016, the world mourned the loss of Carrie These days, you never know what could happen. A drunk Having these types of provisions prevent reckless, Fisher, who played Princess Leia in the “Star Wars” series. driver could crash into your car, or you could suffer a heart “spendthrift” behavior and give you peace of mind knowing She succumbed to a heart attack at the young age of 60. Just attack at an early age. If you pass away unexpectedly, your that the beneficiary’s inheritance can be stretched over time one day later, her mother, famous actress Debbie Reynolds, children could suddenly come into a small fortune. If they and be put to good use. Of course, each person’s individuals passed away after suffering a massive stroke. are minors (or even in their 20s), then they may not be in a needs and situations vary, so to determine what type of pro- According to news reports, Fisher’s estate — comprised position to adequately and responsibly manage the wealth visions suit you best, feel free to consult with an attorney. of real property, financial accounts, ownership interests in they have inherited. Fisher and Reynolds left lasting impressions on the world, companies, jewelry, artwork, publicity rights, film residu- Take Lourd, Fisher’s daughter, for example. She likely and their legacies as actresses, businesswomen and mothers als, automobiles, etc. — is valued somewhere between $5 inherited 100 percent of her mother’s estate ($5 million- have continued even though they are gone. From an Estate million and $25 million. Reynolds’ estate was much larger, $25 million) as well as Fisher’s half of Reynolds’ estate Planning perspective, if there is one thing we can learn from valued somewhere between $60 million and $85 million. ($30 million-$42 million). That’s a lot of money for a their unexpected deaths, it’s that your children’s inheritance Neither woman was married, but they did have children. 24-year-old adult to handle. can be safeguarded with the right provisions in place. Reynolds had two kids, Carrie Fisher and Todd Fisher. Fisher If you own a home valued at $500,000, Finally, for those of you who are not “Star Wars” fans, feel had one daughter, actress Billie Catherine Lourd. miscellaneous bank accounts totaling $100,000 and a life free to join the “Dark Side” each May 5, which has come to It appears that both Reynolds and Fisher had living trusts insurance policy for $50,000, then your children could be be called “Revenge of the Fifth” — a play on “Star Wars: set up. Because information regarding trusts is private, it’s looking at splitting a $650,000 estate. What can you do to Episode III — Revenge of the Sith.” Happy celebrating! difficult to know exactly who the beneficiaries of each estate ensure that your children don’t blow the money all at once? Staci Yamashita-Iida, Esq., is an Estate Planning are. For the purposes of this article, let’s assume that each One option is to insert provisions into your living trust that attorney at Elder Law Services of California. She can be trust was written in a “standard” manner. instruct the Trustee to distribute trust funds to a beneficiary contacted at (310) 348-2995. The opinions expressed in That would mean that the beneficiaries of Reynolds’ trust at a later (and hopefully more mature and responsible) age. this article are the author’s own and do not necessarily were her children. Since Fisher predeceased her mother, her You can state how and when a beneficiary will receive por- reflect the view of the Pacific Citizen or JACL. The in- share of Reynolds’ estate would probably go to her daughter, tions of their inheritance. For example, “Beneficiaries will formation presented does not constitute legal advice and Lourd. Lourd was likely the beneficiary of Fisher’s living receive 25 percent at age 25, 25 percent at age 30 and the should not be treated as such. 4 May 19-June 1, 2017 NATIONAL/COMMUNITY WOODEN HOME PLATE FROM JAPANESE FACING HISTORY AMERICAN CONCENTRATION CAMP ON AND OURSELVES DISPLAY IN BASEBALL HALL OF FAME ANNOUNCES WINNERS The relic preserves an important WWII story and sheds light on a rich and OF ITS 2017 STUDENT hidden prewar legacy of Japanese American baseball. ESSAY CONTEST he Nisei Baseball Research cans internationalized it,” said Bill Sta- Kaitlin Wong of Belmont, Calif., Project, a nonprofit organization ples Jr., author of “Kenichi Zenimura, founded to preserve the history of Japanese American Baseball Pioneer.” wins a $1,000 scholarship. TJapanese American baseball, is pleased Between 1900 and 1940, Japanese he international nonprofit organization Facing to announce that the wooden home plate Americans did more than any other History and Ourselves announced May 1 the from the World War II Japanese Ameri- group to help export the American style 10 student winners of its 2017 Facing History can Concentration Camp at Gila River, of play to Asia with numerous goodwill TTogether Student Essay Contest. Among the finalists Ariz., is now on exhibit at the National tours to Japan, China and Korea. And was Kaitlin Wong of Belmont, Calif., who was awarded Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, when Nikkei teams weren’t directly in- a $1,000 Upstander Award scholarship for her essay N.Y. volved in tours, they helped facilitate submission, “Choices.” In partnership with the NBRP and the the tours behind the scenes, as was the The contest is an annual event that invites students Arizona Chapter of the Japanese Ameri- case with the Negro League Philadel- A wooden home plate from from across the U.S., Canada and United Kingdom to can Citizens League, the National Base- phia Royal Giants, who toured Asia in the WWII Japanese American provide their perspectives on a topic that helps shape ball Hall of Fame added the wartime relic 1927, and the major league tours of 1931 Concentration Camp at Gila their world. to its second-floor exhibit “The Game.” and 1934. These American ambassadors River, Ariz., is now on display This year’s contest, “Making Choices in Today’s The addition of the wooden home plate planted the seeds so that professional at the Baseball Hall of Fame in World,” asked students to reflect on a powerful quote coincides with the May observance of baseball in Japan could begin in 1936. Cooperstown, N.Y. from the late Elie Wiesel, Holocaust survivor and Nobel Asian Pacific American Heritage Month “Timing is key in the game of base- laureate, and write an essay on choices they have made and 2017’s remembrance of the 75th ball,” said Staples. “Players like Masa- thus far and how their future choices will ultimately anniversary of Executive Order 9066, Zenimura is recognized by historians as nori Murakami, Hideo Nomo, Ichiro, have a great impact on their lives and those around them. which led to the forced removal and in- the “father of Japanese American base- Hideki Matsui and Masahiro Tanaka Wong, a junior at Carlmont High School in Belmont, carceration of some 120,000 Americans ball.” were born at the right time. They all are entered the contest after learning about it through the of Japanese ancestry during WWII. “Japanese Americans kept the All- indebted to the Japanese American pio- Making Caring Common Youth Advisory Board, which According to a recent Hall of Fame American pastime alive behind barbed neers who helped elevate the level of play she has been a member since October. article titled “A Field of Dreams in an wire, despite the fact that their civil lib- in Japan before the war by building base- Her essay submission was personal, as it detailed her Arizona Desert,” the home plate serves erties were being violated by the country ball’s bridge to the Pacific. Hopefully, the grandmother’s incarceration in Rohwer, Ark., during as an important symbol of hope for that they loved,” said Kerry Yo Nakaga- wooden home plate will spark a greater World War II and the hardships her family faced in the people of all nationalities. wa, NBRP founder and project director. appreciation for the prewar impact and years following as a result of Executive Order 9066. “This wooden home plate was much “Long before WWII, Japanese Ameri- legacy of Japanese American baseball “I heard about the essay contest and decided to write more than a corner of a dusty baseball cans embraced the game of baseball, not pioneers,” Staples added. about my grandmother’s story because I believe that it diamond or the shape that helped define only to display their sense of belonging “Since the inception of the NBRP, our is important that we learn more about our history in or- a batter’s strike zone,” said Hall of Fame in America, but because of their love for mission has been to have the National der to improve upon the future,” said Wong. “I believe senior curator Tom Shieber. “It was (and the game itself. Baseball Hall of Fame consider a perma- in the importance of sharing the stories from the past is) a vibrant symbol of hope for those “Japanese Americans played in leagues nent exhibition for Japanese Americans,” because they allow us to reflect and learn from the mis- who were denied their freedom and an of their own due to bigotry of the time, said Nakagawa. “All great journeys in takes, the triumphs and everything in between. Writing expression of what it meant to be an and they also competed against barn- the game of baseball begin at home plate. has given me the opportunity to do this, and I hope I can American for those who were stripped of storming major league players and teams Hopefully, Zenimura’s wooden home continue to represent and learn more about the Japanese their civil rights. It is an important arti- from the Pacific Coast League, Negro plate is just the beginning for Cooper- American community.” fact in the history of our country, not just Leagues and Japan,” Nakagawa contin- stown to recognize, honor and celebrate On Feb. 19, 2017, Wong and her sisters, along with the history of our National Pastime.” ued. “They not only held their own — in the important legacy of Asian Ameri- their grandmother, attended the 75th Day of Remem- According to Hall of Fame officials, many cases, they were the victors.” cans in our National Pastime, much like brance ceremony in San Jose’s Japantown, as “visitors learn about the home plate, Japanese Americans also played a key the All-American Girls, Latinos and the where they participated with all of its rusty nails and splintered role as international baseball ambas- Negro Leagues.” in a march into the San pieces of wood, so, too, will they under- sadors, helping to build a bridge to the For more information about the Nisei Jose Buddhist Church, stand the legacy of Kenichi Zenimura, Pacific. where the ceremony was the man who created a fountain of hope “If African-Americans integrated the Baseball Research Project, visit www. niseibaseball.com. held, all while shouting, in the Pima Indian desert of Arizona.” game of baseball, then Japanese Ameri- “Never again!” >> See CONTEST on page 9 In commemoration of the 45th anniversary PHOTO: Okinawa Association of Okinawa’s reversion as a Japanese prefec- COURTESY OF KAITLIN ture from American jurisdiction on May 15, WONG of America Receives 1972, the Okinawa Association of America was presented with a certificate of recognition Recognition during an event at the consul general of Japan’s residence in Los Angeles on May 12. Akira Chiba, consul general of Japan in Los Angeles (left) and California Assemblymem- ber Al Muratsuchi (D-Torrance) (right), who was born in Okinawa, presented the anniversary certificate of recognition to Okinawa Associa- tion of America President Edward Kamiya. The small gathering also featured Okinawan Kaitlin Wong participated in the Feb. 19, 2017, cuisine and beverages, as well as dance and Day of Remembrance march in San Jose’s song performances. n Japantown.

JACL_CONV_PC_Ad_1May2017_Layout 1 5/1/17 5:59 PM Page 1 NATIONAL May 19-June 1, 2017 5

IN REMEMBRANCE OF THE 75TH ANNIVERSARY of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s signing of Executive Order 9066

Please join us for OUR STORY: RESILENCE, REMEMBRANCE, RESOLVE

JACL N ATIONAL CONVENTION WASHINGTON DC 2017 The 2017 Convention will be a special and memorable event. The 48th Highlights include: Japanese American Citizens League A PRIVATE RECEPTION National Convention of the Smithsonian e xhibit “Righting a Wrong,” highlighting the experience of Japanese July 6-9, 2017 Americans during World War II, and including original pages from Executive Order 9066. O mni Shoreh am Hotel 2500 Cal vert Street AN INTIMATE EVENT Washington, DC hosted by the Embassy of Japan, featuring the Governor Ralph Carr Award ceremony honoring leaders who personify his legacy Don’t m iss the opportunit y to take part in these of working towards racial justice extraordinary ev ents—and more. and promotion of civil rights. Register by June 4 to receive the Early Bird discount. WORKSHOPS AND SESSIONS Sign up early, the event will sell out. focusing on key issues affecting the Japanese American community and the nation. To register or for more information, visit jacl.org/2017convention THE ELEGANT SAYONARA BANQUET to celebrate old and The Japanese American Citizens League (JACL) is the oldest and largest Asian American civil rights organization in the United States. The JACL is a national organization whose new friendships. mission is to secure and maintain the civil rights of Japanese Americans and all others who are victimized by injustice and bigotry. The JACL also works to promote cultural, educational, and social values and preserve the heritage and legacy of the Japanese American community. 6 May 19-June 1, 2017 IN-DEPTH PHOTOS: NEWS AND MEDIA RELATIONS/ THE POWER TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE SONOMA STATE UNIVERSITY Judy K. Sakaki is officially sworn in as the president of Sonoma State University, becoming the first female Japanese American to lead a four-year institution.

By Kristen Taketa, emigration across the Pacific. Contributor Sakaki’s investiture happens to come he newly invested president of during the year of the 75th anniversary Sonoma State University still of Executive Order 9066, which uprooted remembers the look on her father’s about 120,000 people of Japanese ancestry Tface when she told him she knew about the from their homes, businesses and neigh- internment camps. borhoods and confined them to remote Judy Sakaki, a third-generation Japanese internment camps for the duration of Judy K. Sakaki was officially sworn in American, or Sansei, was attending middle World War II. as the seventh president of Sonoma school in Oakland, Calif., when it happened. The exhibit is meant not just to showcase State University on April 20. She is She was eating dinner with her parents when Sakaki’s life but also showcase another suc- the first Japanese American female she brought up that somebody at school had cess story of a descendant of immigrants president of a four-year university. said that Japanese Americans went to camp during a time of political turmoil, as well as once. She had thought that meant they went uneasiness about the future for immigrants. to summer camp. She had no idea then that “I think the experience of Japanese Ameri- “camp” was where her family had been cans is important because it helps educate incarcerated with no say. others, especially in the climate we’re in, titure ceremony, which also included a Bud- “It was something my family did not really to value immigrants,” Sakaki said. “We are That all changed when she happened to dhist offering of gratitude, a Miwok Native talk about,” Sakaki said. a society of immigrants. We’ve all come cross paths with a college outreach coun- American blessing and a keynote address, When Sakaki brought it up, her mother to where we are from different places, and selor, who told Sakaki she should aim higher “The Power and Promise of Higher Educa- shushed her. A certain look came over her I felt it was important to share my story, for a college education. Sakaki believes that tion,” given by one of her mentors, Michael father’s face. They all finished dinner with- particularly in this time. one person helped change the trajectory of V. Drake, president of Ohio State University. “I am because of my grandparents’ immi- out mentioning it again. her life. Ensuring Access for Minority Students gration,” Sakaki continued. “I am because of Decades have passed since that tense din- “That’s what I say is the power of one, the Sakaki was chosen to be Sonoma State’s my parents’ and grandparents’ internment. nertime, and in an investiture ceremony power of one person to make a difference in new president in January 2016, continuing I am because of growing up in Oakland.” themed “Dance With Change,” held April someone’s life,” she said. an educational career that has been entirely Among the many mentors who encour- 20 at the Rohnert Park campus, Sakaki was That’s a lesson she said she hopes to spent within California’s public university aged Sakaki throughout her career is Patrick officially sworn in as Sonoma State’s presi- impart to others through her presidency, systems. Hayashi, associate president emeritus, Uni- dent and the U.S.’ first Japanese American and it’s a story that she believes resonates At the time of her appointment, Sakaki versity of California, Office of the President. female president of a four-year university. especially with first-generation college was working on issues of student access at Hayashi’s remarks are featured in the ex- When Sakaki learned that she would be students like herself. the University of California, Office of the hibit, and they acknowledge Sakaki’s efforts the first Japanese American female univer- “I want everyone to realize that anything is President. Some of her work there included to successfully grant honorary degrees from sity president, she said she thought it was possible,” she said. “I didn’t grow up think- testifying before state legislature commit- the University of California to Japanese a milestone that should’ve happened years ing I was going to be a university president, tees about financial aid and gender equity Americans who were interned during World ago. It’s one that should’ve happened for but there were others who reached out and in university athletics and student mental War II. many other communities, not just Japanese helped me, and I want others to know that health, according to Sonoma State’s website. In 2009, while working as a senior admin- Americans, she said. it’s possible.” She has also worked as a university adminis- istrator for the University of California, she “That was actually quite surprising to me Japanese American Heritage trator at the University of California, Davis, led a taskforce that issued honorary degrees because it seems like in this day and age, we In every city she’s lived in throughout her and at Fresno State. to 700 Japanese Americans who had been should be past firsts,” Sakaki said. career, Sakaki said she has made sure to Some of her goals as Sonoma State’s presi- unable to complete their University of Cali- The university is marking Sakaki’s inves- renew her membership with the local Japa- dent include ensuring affordable access for fornia education because they were sent to titure with her own exhibit about her life, an nese American Citizens League chapter. first-generation and minority students. Since the internment camps. According to Sonoma exhibit that will remain open in the univer- She’s been a member for years, just like her starting her job on July 1 of last year, Sakaki State, those honorary degrees were the first sity library through the summer. parents and her grandparents, who were has helped Sonoma State achieve eligibil- the University of California had issued in Entitled “I am because . . . Dr. Judy K. always members of JACL. ity status as a Hispanic Serving Institution, almost four decades. Sakaki’s Journey to the SSU Presidency,” the It’s just one of the ways Sakaki has clung according to Sonoma State’s website. exhibit highlights her journey to the presi- ‘Power of One Person’ onto her Japanese American identity, which She is also working to create support dency, her family history and her identity as Sakaki doesn’t believe she would’ve gotten she says has informed her style of leadership centers for undocumented students a Sansei. The exhibit also includes artifacts to where she is now if it hadn’t been for just and her priorities as a university adminis- and transfer students, according to the from her family history, including a suit- one person. trator. The values of gaman and gambatte, university’s website. case one of her grandparents carried in their When she was in school, there was no good which mean “perseverance without com- In addition, Sakaki said she wants to reason for her, she said, to believe plaint,” learned from her family still guide increase Sonoma State’s visibility in the she would become a university her leadership today, she said. community, particularly among minority president, or an astrophysicist, an When she was younger, Sakaki attended students. Sonoma State, founded in 1961, has engineer or a surgeon. Neither of Japanese language school on Saturdays and a student body of about 9,400 people. her parents attended college be- Sunday school at a Buddhist church, though “I think we’re a little bit of a hidden gem, cause they had been sent to the she doesn’t remember as much Japanese and I don’t think as many people know about internment camps instead. Her nowadays. She also played taiko and made it as they could,” Sakaki said. own high school teacher didn’t sure that her two children played taiko to During her tenure there, Sakaki aims to encourage her to aim for college. learn and practice discipline. use her voice and the “power of one” to truly So, at first, Sakaki didn’t. Taiko players performed at Sakaki’s inves- make a difference at the university. n

An exhibit at the University Library titled, “I am because . . . Dr. Judy K. Sakaki’s Journey to the SSU Presidency,” Judy Sakaki points out family items handcraft- runs through the summer and details the personal story of how Sakaki was influenced by people and events during her ed by her mother, Masako Sakaki, during World life, as well as personal family artifacts that tell her story. War II. Many interned often made crafts using Curated by Dana Ogo Shew, a Sonoma State archeologist and oral historian, the exhibit also includes homemade items such as peach pits and seeds to create artifacts from Sakaki’s parents, created while they were each interned during World War II following the issuing of pins, brooches and necklaces. The pieces are Executive Order 9066 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. on display in the Sakaki exhibit. The exhibit is open daily. IN-DEPTH May 19-June 1, 2017 7

PHOTO: NANCY UKAI

A panorama of the Topaz museum

PHOTO: KIMIKO MARR

TOPAZ BUS MAKES A 75-YEAR ROUND TRIP Pilgrims turn a painful time in history into a trip that brings about a renewed sense of hope and appreciation for a home that fully welcomes them back.

PHOTO: KIMIKO MARR By Nancy Ukai, final revealment. Contributor A plush cotton mattress, a luxury in its oru Saito of Berkeley, Calif., has day, was found to be inside when the box Church Rev. Kevin Omi of Syc- become known for the “Topaz Bus” was finally unsealed, its nails pulled out by a amore Congregational Church pilgrimages he started leading in Ryobi hand tool. welcomed the pilgrims back. T2002. He charters a bus and escorts North- Saito has lent the mattress for display until ern California pilgrims back to the Sevier July 2 at the MIS Historic Learning Cen- the military buses that left the church Desert in Utah for a several-day, 1,500-mile ter in San Francisco, which is managed by Peggy in 1942: Ruth Ichinaga, who was 7 round trip to revisit family memories and the National Japanese American Historical Okabayashi years old; Kazuko Iwahashi, 12; Rich- excavate community history. Society. and Nancy ard Takao Furuzawa, five months; and But this year’s pilgrimage, which took Once in Utah, the pilgrimage group visited Ukai at the Richard Sekiguchi, 9 years old. place April 22-26, was Saito’s sixth, and it the new Topaz Museum and admired the James H. “I do remember standing on the was a special journey that even he couldn’t exhibits in the building, which is holding its Wakasa sidewalk with luggage and my have foreseen. official grand opening celebration July 7-8 in memorial parents,” said Sekiguchi to a local Perhaps it was the fact that 2017 is the 75th Delta. Visitors viewed photographs of their TV reporter. anniversary of Executive Order 9066, with family members and found their barrack in a through the barbed wire, which Wakasa In remembrance of this city history, the commemorative events being held across the scale model of the camp. was wrongly accused of going through “to First Church held a commemorative read- country. Maybe it was because the Topaz The pilgrims also spent a day and a half escape through the fence,” according to ing and artifact display that evening. The Museum has announced its grand opening at the Topaz site. They walked the sun- the WRA and U.S. Army wartime news Berkeley Historical Society also announced for July in Delta, Utah. It also could of been hardened grounds and held a Japanese feast releases that were never corrected. Those who the unveiling of a metal plaque recording that he was bringing back to Utah a wooden in memory of ancestors who, held under were wearing “Never Again” T-shirts stood the 1942 exile, and the Berkeley chapter of box that was packed as Topaz was closing in government custody, could not enjoy longed- at the memorial and raised their fists in the JACL co-sponsored with the University 1945 and hadn’t been opened since. for homemade delicacies. remembrance. of California, Berkeley, and other groups a This year’s pilgrimage took 32 Nisei, San- The “menu of the desert” included kam- For the last leg of the trip, one final event lecture on campus. sei and Yonsei family members and friends aboko, teriyaki chicken, fresh pineapple, was scheduled or, rather, fell into place, Fifteen members of Northern Califor- to the deserted remains of the WRA concen- cold tofu, umeboshi, fine sake, spam musubi by the grace of several Berkeley religious nia JACLs took part in the Topaz pilgrim- tration camp. Recalling when shades had to and potato chips. Part of the feast was held institutions, the local historical society and age: Geri and John Handa (San Francisco), be pulled down on the trains transporting on the concrete pad of the old Block 4 Mess the Berkeley chapter of the JACL. Rose Hironaka (Sacramento), Kazuko Iwa- thousands of innocent people to the perma- Hall. It was followed by an impromptu taiko By poetic coincidence, Saito’s bus tour re- hashi and Nancy Ukai (Berkeley), Kimiko nent camps following the onset of World practice with a clear view, unobstructed by turned to Berkeley on April 26, the very day Marr (Watsonville-Santa Cruz), Ruth Ichina- War II, passengers this time freely lifted and barracks, of the Topaz mountains. that 75 years ago the military registration ga, Alice Ninomiya, Flora Ninomiya, Rich- drew the blinds inside their luxury bus. In an unplanned stop, the pilgrims spotted began at the First Congregational Church ard Sekiguchi and Ben Takeshita (Contra The pilgrims, some going to Topaz for through the window a wooden marker cre- on Dana Street, where U.S. Army buses Costa) and Satsuki Ina, Marielle Tsukamoto the first time, ranged in age from 42 years- ated in memory of James Hatsuaki Wakasa, prepared to take 1,300 Japanese Americans and Christine and Stan Umeda (Florin). 90 years. They took what they could carry 63, who was shot five feet inside the barbed- from Berkeley, devastating a community As the dusty bus rolled up to the church and more — taiko drums, ukuleles, rice wire fence by a military sentry in April that had been established for 40 years. sidewalk upon its return home, emotion and cookers, homemade peanut brittle and the 1943. The group asked the bus driver to stop. The church is near the University of tears welled up inside the bus. Through the unopened wooden mystery box. All alighted the bus and laid paper flowers, California’s flagship campus and is still windows, pilgrims could see the smiling Once the group arrived in Utah, the box which had been made for an evening event, a traumatic address for some who are old faces of strangers holding signs. All held was finally opened, much to the great delight and ojuzu on the sign that had been built by a enough to remember. One Nisei who was in placards that read, “Welcome Back.” of those gathered to witness the anticipated local boys’ club. Pilgrims climbed both ways high school in 1942 confessed that he is still Rev. Molly Baskette of First Church, unable to drive down the street, now 75 years Rev. Kevin Omi of Sycamore Church later. and Rev. Candice Shibata of the Berkeley The church had offered the use of its Buddhist Temple led the group that assem- grounds in 1942 to the military so that the bled to greet the pilgrims. Church member American Japanese community would not Milton Fujii said that it was a moving day. have to register for family numbers and “It’s an amazing 75-year round trip,” depart for Tanforan from a used car lot on he said. Shattuck Avenue. When Furuzawa got off the bus, he re- The church pastor at the time, Rev. Vere minded a local reporter for the East Bay Loper, said goodbye to each departing bus. Times that detention centers are being built One church board member voted not to sup- to hold undocumented immigrants. port the U.S. government’s “dirty business” “That could be the start of an internment but was overruled by those who felt that camp,” he said, adding, “I’m watering it offering the use of the church grounds was down a bit, by using the term ‘internment.’ the humane thing to do. If you look at the definition, it’s really a All 32 Topaz pilgrimage 2017 participants Four people on the Topaz bus also were on concentration camp.” n 8 May 19-June 1, 2017 IN-DEPTH

PHOTO: AKEMI YAMANE TOPAZ MYSTERY BOX FINALLY REVEALED t’s a mattress!” announced Ken Okabayashi of Elk Grove, PHOTO: NANCY UKAI Calif., to a curious crowd of 150 in Delta, Utah, as the contents of the Topaz mystery box were finally revealed ‘Ion April 24 during a Nikkei bus pilgrimage to Topaz. The weathered wooden box was packed at the Topaz concentration camp more than 70 years ago and had never been opened. Until now. The 50-pound cotton mattress inside the box was once a plush bedding item, which sparked surprise, laughter and reflection by those in attendance. “This family acquired a real mattress and what they were (From left) Satsuki Ina, Toru Saito and going to send home was this wonderful piece of comfort that Kiyoshi Ina open the Topaz mystery box somehow they got,” said Satsuki Ina, who moderated the in the Delta Community Center on April event, which was held in the town’s community center. Toru Saito (left) and Max Nihei, collections manager for 24. Saito was 4 years old when he was “At least it’s not a hay mattress,” said Ben Takeshita of the NJAHS, prepare to display the Topaz mattress at the taken to Topaz from San Francisco, and Richmond, Calif. He recalled arriving at the Tanforan Race Presidio’s MIS Historic Learning Center in San Francisco. Kiyoshi Ina was born there. Track, located south of San Francisco, in April 1942 and being given hay to stuff inside a cotton bag. Ever since that PHOTO: NANCY UKAI time, Takeshita has had hay fever. “I wonder if my hay fever came from that period . . .” The box had been entrusted to a fellow camp mate after the war for safekeeping in Berkeley, Calif. But it was never reclaimed, and the box was eventually passed on to Toru Saito, 79, who spent four years of his childhood at Topaz. After 18 years of storing it, Saito decided it was time for an unsealing. Suspense built in the town center, located 17 miles from Topaz, as Kiyoshi Ina of Concord, Calif., who was born at Topaz, sawed through the nails with a Ryobi hand tool and lifted the top planks. Kiyoshi Ina was among 32 camp survivors and family members who were on a five-day bus pilgrimage to Topaz from the San Francisco Bay Area, the sixth such trip led by Saito. Fifty pounds of cotton makes for a thick, nearly five-inch-deep mattress, and it immediately evoked memories for Topaz survivors. Saito said that the mattress conjured up for him scenes from John Steinbeck’s “Grapes of Wrath,” in which trucks and cars headed West during the Dust Bowl with “mattresses on the roofs of the cars because that was the only possession they had.” The mattress found inside the Topaz mystery box is now on display in San Francisco. He said, “Maybe people were expecting all kinds of gold jewelry or whatever . . . but when you really think about it, [a mattress] is what you sleep on. It is what rejuvenates your body for the next day.” Satsuki Ina, a psychotherapist from the Bay Area, told the gathering that she had talked to a man who was drafted out of the camps to AMERICAN HOLIDAY TRAVEL fight in Europe. He realized that the body bags used for dead soldiers 2017 TOUR SCHEDULE were what the American Japanese camp inmates had been given to Grandparent-Grandchildren Japan Tour (Ernest Hida) WAITLIST Jun 26-Jul 5 stuff with straw for beds. Tokyo, Hakone, Atami, Hiroshima, Kyoto. This represented “the makeshift temporary life,” she said, of not Yellowstone-Tetons National Parks Tour (Elaine Ishida)...... Jul 7-14 knowing how long those interned were going to be in the camps Salt Lake City, Jackson Hole, Yellowstone, Grand Tetons, Park City. and the “cruel and unusual” circumstances of their World War II Hokkaido Summer Holiday Tour (Ernest Hida) ...... Jul 17-30 confinement. — Nancy Ukai Lake Akan, Furano, Asahikawa, Wakkanai, Sapporo, Lake Toya, The Topaz mattress will be on display at the MIS Historic Hakodate, Tokyo. Learning Center in San Francisco until July 2, according to So. Dakota-Mt. Rushmore Tour (Elaine Ishida)...... Aug 25-31 Rosalyn Tonai, executive director of the National Japanese Rapid City, Mt. Rushmore, Custer State Park, Black Hills, Badlands. American Historical Society. Eastern Canada Holiday Tour (Carol Hida) ...... Sep 6-14 Montreal, Quebec, Ottawa, Toronto, Niagara Falls. PHOTO: NANCY UKAI Classical Japan Autumn Holiday Tour (Ernest Hida)...... Oct 5-16 Tokyo, Mt. Fuji, Yamanashi, Shizuoka, Nagoya, Gifu, Hiroshima, Kyoto. Japan Autumn Countryside Holiday Tour (Ernest Hida)...... Oct 19-29 Tokyo, Sado Island, Kanazawa, Amanohashidate, Tottori, Matsue, Tamatsukuri Onsen, Hiroshima. New Orleans & Deep South Holiday Tour (Elaine Ishida)...... Nov 5-12 New Orleans, Natchez, Lafayette. So. America Patagonia-Easter Island Holiday Tour (Ernest Hida). . . Nov 7-22 Buenos Aires, Ushuaia, Calafate(Perito Moreno Glacier), Paine National Park(Grey Glacier), Punta Arenas, Santiago, Easter Island.

For more information and reservations, please contact:

AMERICAN HOLIDAY TRAVEL 312 E. 1st Street, Suite 330 * Los Angeles, CA 90012 Tel: (213)625-2232 * Email: [email protected] (CST #200326-10) Ernest or Carol Hida Elaine Ishida (Tel: 714-269-4534) The Topaz mystery box made its return to Utah. COMMUNITY/COMMENTARY May 19-June 1, 2017 9 JACL ARIZONA CELEBRATES STANDING IN SOLIDARITY WITH SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS NATIVE HAWAIIANS: Japanese Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders By Rob Buscher, Like many of the early immigrants leaving Japan, my Contributor great-great grandparents moved to the Big Island in n the weeks and months since the current search of a better life. My great-great grandfather was administration took office, I have experienced a ship steward, and his wife worked odd jobs around a constant pendulum of emotion. From outrage the area north of Hilo. Iat various policies or legislative proposals to sur- Japanese Hawaiians have a unique perspective on the events of World War II. About 40 percent of the Pictured (from left) are Arizona JACL Sara Hutchings prised relief at the chorus of opposition — judicial, population had at least some Japanese blood in 1942, Clardy Scholarship Award winners Madison Quan, legislative, journalistic and community-based that and it would have been impossible to incarcerate them Trevor Quan and Sara Jay. have largely prevented the worst of this government’s policies from being enacted into law. in the way our mainland families were. Certainly, Coalitions and solidarity building have always been there were exceptions, as we’ve seen with the recent he Arizona Chapter of the ships and graduate recogni- rediscovery of the Honouliuli incarceration camp, and JACL held its 56th annual tion, the 2017 Gold Saguaro an important part of our progressive movements, but it seems, in particular, that this moment in U.S. history there are parallels between veterans of the 442nd and Sara Hutchings Clardy Tribute Award was presented the thousands of Hawaiian Nisei men who chose to TScholarship Awards Graduates’ posthumously to Dr. Ted Namba has encouraged large-scale collaboration of the likes we have not seen since the 1960s Civil Rights era. serve in the 100th Infantry Battalion. But for the most Luncheon on April 30, where (1957-2016) for his many hours part, Japanese Hawaiians did not experience the war Donna Cheung, chapter presi- and tireless efforts devoted to It has also made me introspective with regards to our own AAPI coalition, especially now in the month from behind barbed-wire fences. dent, and Judge Brian Ishikawa, the JACL and greater Arizona Fast-forward to today, and all but two of my great- master of ceremonies, welcomed community. of May as we celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. In an earlier Pacific Citizen great grandparents’ eight children have passed on. more than 100 guests to celebrate Michael Tang, minister’s assis- Although they did not live to see it, the sacrifices of the students for their academic tant at Arizona Buddhist Temple, article, I wrote that we as AAPIs can be a new model, a model by which society at large can strive to unite our immigrant elders allowed this family to prosper. excellence and positive impact in delivered the invocation and In total, I would estimate about 50 relatives of mine the community. benediction, and the luncheon’s through diversity. While I still believe that whole- heartedly, it is important to acknowledge the issues live between Oahu and the Big Island — though I’ve Recognized in the high keynote speaker was Bill Staples met fewer than 10. Some of them are doctors, lawyers school award categories were Jr., author of “Kenichi Zenimu- that divide us. Between socioeconomic class barriers, interethnic and engineers. One branch of our family went into Sara Jay from Cactus Shadows ra, Japanese American Baseball farming in the 1960s and now owns a small orchid High School and Madison and Pioneer.” tensions and regional cultural differences, there really isn’t a whole lot uniting us beyond the shared experi- farm called Carmela on the Big Island. Whatever their Trevor Quan from Sandra Day Planning committee members profession, everyone seems to be doing alright. O’Connor High School. included Doris Asano, Denise ence of being historically underrepresented minorities and our similar immigration patterns. Hawaii sent the first JA congressman to Washington Each student received a $1,000 Fuse, Karie Matsuishi, Lauren — Sen. Daniel K. Inouye. We’ve since had luminar- scholarship, named in honor of Namba, Michele Namba, Joyce I see a lot of national AAPI organizations whose leadership is almost entirely East Asian American. ies such as Spark Matsunaga, Daniel Akaka, Mazie Sara Hutchings Clardy (1894- Shiota, Bonnie Sumida and Hirono, Patsy Mink, Mark Takai and Colleen 1962), a distinguished educator Seiko Watkins. That should not come as a surprise, given the relative success our communities have held in comparison to Hanabusa. The Governor of Hawaii is David Ige, and longtime friend of the Japa- The Arizona JACL thanks and a third of Honolulu’s City Council has Japanese nese American community in the following sponsors for their impoverished South Asian immigrants or Southeast Asian refugees. But there are always exceptions to the ancestry. If you go down to the Waikiki strip, Arizona. support of the event: Toyota Fi- Japanese language is as common as Spanish is in East Los Special recognition was also nancial Services, Arizona State rule, as we also see a large number of low-income Chi- natown residents and inversely, fairly well-off South Angeles. From humble origins in the cane fields, we given to the following gradu- University, Arizona Public Ser- have risen to become the mainstream in Hawaii. ates within the JACL Arizona vice, Arizona Asian Chamber Asian immigrants working in the STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) fields. However, when we talk about the Japanese Hawai- community: Kelsey Ishimatsu of Commerce, Arizona Asian ian experience, we rarely consider the fact that despite Jacobson, California Polytech- American Bar Association, Jor- There is a great deal of work left to be done in all communities to ensure that our coalitions remain being subordinate to whites in the colonial racial nical State University; Lauren dan and Jennifer Sumida, First hierarchy, our people essentially functioned as Kawashima, elementary school; Arizona Title, and Movement equitable to all those they claim to represent, but perhaps the largest gap between the dominant East members of the settler colonial state. Bryan Namba, University of Mortgage. In 1850, there were over 250,000 pure Native Hawai- Washington; and Brad Okuma, Asian American narrative is the lived experience of For more information, Pacific Islander Americans. ians. By 1990, that number had shrunk to fewer than University of Arizona. contact the Arizona JACL at 10,000 (comparable in size to the current membership In addition to the scholar- We say AAPI, but how many of our organizations [email protected]. have Pacific Islander-serving programs? How many of JACL). While this doesn’t take into account the non-PI specific organizations have PI board members incredible amount of intermarriage between various or staff, and how many of us can even name more than Pacific Islander ethnicities and other communities, it CONTEST >> continued from page 4 a couple PIs who we regularly engage in the work we is a sobering reminder of the systematic annihilation do? In Pennsylvania and elsewhere in the East Coast, of Native Hawaiian culture, traditions and way of life. “With so many worthy partici- we barely have a PI population (.1 percent in PA While blame for the overthrow of the sovereign king- pants, I was definitely surprised according to the 2010 census), but does that mean we dom of Hawaii rests solely with the business interests and humbled. Because it was my should exclude them from our discourse? and missionaries who acted under the blessing of the grandmother’s story, I feel hon- I would be remiss not to mention the fact that many U.S. government, our community must acknowledge ored to be able to share it with so of our JA families (including my own) have roots in the role we have played in its subsequent history as many people,” said Wong, who is the Japanese Hawaiian migration of the late 1800s. Asian settlers. donating a portion of her scholar- >> See NATIVE HAWAIIANS on page 12 ship to her high school. “This has been such an amazing experience, one I’ll never forget. I hope that people feel that the next genera- Nearly 5,200 students submit- tion of leaders is ready to take on ted essays for this year’s contest, any challenge and make the world and with the help of more than a better place.” 100 judges and more than 10,000 To read Kaitlin Wong’s essay, online voters, the organization visit contest.facinghistory.org/ selected the 10 essays that best choices. Early Japanese Hawaiian pineapple workers encapsulated this year’s theme. 10 May 19-June 1, 2017 CALENDAR A NATIONAL GUIDE TO NOTABLE COMMUNITY EVENTS 5340 N. Interstate Ave. Henry Madden Library visual record of the forced removal Price: General admission $10; stu- 5200 Barton Ave. of Japanese Americans during dents/seniors $5 (limited seating; Price: $28; registration limited to World War II and displays more reservations encouraged) 12 each class, sign up by June 16 than 200 photographs by WRA The immigrant journey of the Shining a light on remembrance, photographers Dorothea Lange, Japanese in Oregon is paved join artist Judy Shintani as she Clem Albers, Francis Stewart and CALENDAR with stories of perseverance and guides participants in this lantern Hikaru Iwasaki from the National courage. This one-hour perfor- workshop focused around cel- Archives. The exhibition also mance features original readings ebration and the remembrance of features photographs taken by National PSW of little-known stories of the return loved ones. It is open to adults and Ansel Adams at Manzanar and a 2017 JACL National Convention of Japanese Americans to Oregon children (10+ with parental super- selection of photos from the WSU Washington, D.C. ‘Looking Back, Seeing Ahead’ With after their incarceration during vision), and no prior art experience George and Frank C. Hirahara July 6-9 Special Guest Steve Cavallo World War II. The “Surge of Social is necessary. Participants can photo collection of Heart Omni Shoreham Hotel Independence, CA Change” exhibit coincides with also bring photos (not larger than Mountain. 2500 Calvert St. N.W. May 27; opening reception this performance, which is part of 3.5x3”) to place on the lanterns. Info: Visit https://fdrlibrary. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. org/exhibitions or call Come join JACL as it hosts its 48th the 2017 Vanport Mosaic Festival. Info: Visit www.judyshintani.com Manzanar National Historic Site Info: Visit www.vanport or email [email protected]. (800) FDR-VISIT. n annual National Convention, “Our 5001 Hwy. 395 Story: Resilience, Remembrance, mosaic.org. This exhibit will be featured at Resolve.” The convention’s Manzanar through October in opening reception will feature an recognition of the 75th anniversary EDC ADVERTISE HERE exclusive viewing of the Smithso- of the MNHS. Artist Steve Cavallo MDC nian’s “Righting a Wrong” exhibit, FDR Library’s Images of Events in the calendar section will be at this event reception, commemorating the 75th anniver- Twin Cities JACL Afternoon at ‘365 Internment Exhibition are listed based on space which highlights his watercolor sary of Executive Order 9066.” Days/365 Plays’ Hyde Park, NY availability. Place a ‘Spotlight’ Info: Visit https://jacl. portraits of Japanese Americans June 11; 2-4 p.m. (Show runs from Thru Dec. 31 who were incarcerated during ad with photos of your event org/2017convention/. May 26-June 11) FDR Presidential Library & for maximum exposure. World War II. Light refreshments St. Paul, MN Museum will be served. All are welcome. Penumbra Theater 4079 Albany Post Road Info: Visit www.nps.gov/manz. FOR MORE INFO: 270 N. Kent St. Price: Regular hours and [email protected] NCWNP Price: $10 each (regular price $25; admission apply. ‘Garage Door Opener’ Reading and seniors/students $10) (213) 620-1767 Howard Ikemoto — The Last Show Discussion This special exhibit provides a Aptos, CA Oxnard, CA Full Circle Theater artistic co- June 2-4; Fri., Noon-2 p.m.; June 17; 1:30 p.m. directors and JACL members Rick Sat. and Sun., Noon-5 p.m. Oxnard Buddhist Temple Shiomi and Martha B. Johnson Cabrillo College Gallery 250 S. H St. invite JACL members to enjoy Library Building Price: Donation $15 a matinee performance of “365 Days/365 Plays,” which inter- 6500 Soquel Dr. Come see Soji Kashiwagi’s read- Paintings and drawings span- twines 46 short plays selected ing and discussion of “Garage from Suzan-Lori Parks’ original ning 30-40 years by artist Howard Door Opener,” a story of two adult Ikemoto will be viewed and sold play as viewed through a 2017 siblings who open the garage door lens. The play addresses past for the very last time. Ikemoto, a to their deceased parents’ home former decades-long art instructor and current issues using a racially and discover items from their past mixed cast playing multiple roles. at Cabrillo College, was recently that helps them understand their moved to a memory care facility Postplay discussions follow every parents and themselves. Follow- performance. in Southern California. Proceeds ing the reading, Satsuki Ina will from the sale will go toward Ike- Info: Visit www.fullcircletheat- take audience questions. ermn.org or call (800) 838-3006. moto’s care. The family wishes to Info: Visit www.vcjacl.org. find permanent homes for all of To reserve tickets, use “JACL” his artwork. code for online reservations at West Covina Buddhist Temple Obon www.365days365plays.bpt.me Info: Visit www.howard West Covina, CA ikemoto.com. or contact Cheryl Hirata-Dulas at June 24; 1-9 p.m. (952) 925-2429 or dulas001@msn. East San Gabriel Japanese Eden Bazaar 2017 com by June 6. JACL discount Community Center applies to all shows. San Lorenzo, CA 1203 W. Puente Ave. June 10 and 11; 3-8 p.m. Sat. and This year’s Obon promises to be a 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Sun. day filled with food, games, raffles, Eden Japanese Community Center Bon Odori dancing and cultural IDC 710 Elgin St. exhibits. Come and taste delicious Architecture of Japanese Come and support this year’s chicken teriyaki, sushi, somen, Eden Bazaar, as the weekend Internment: Oregon Exhibit gyoza, chow mein, Asian chicken Ontario, OR will be filled with delicious food salad, tamales and more. Plus, a JOB ANNOUNCEMENTS June 2-July 27 such as chicken and rib dinners, Farmer’s Market of fresh produce Harano Gallery Development Manager udon, sushi, curry, shave ice, corn, will be available, in addition to chil- chicken salad and spam musubi, Four Rivers Cultural Center Membership Manager dren’s games and bonsai exhibits 676 S.W. Fifth Ave. as well as raffle drawings, Bingo and entertainment performances. Sr. Bookkeeper/Accountant and games. It promises to be Info: Visit japanese-city.com Price: Free a weekend of fun for the whole or www.facebook.com/west This traveling exhibit explores how family. covinabuddhisttemple. Oregonians participated in the Come and join the JCCCNC, where you’re not just an Info: Contact Pam Honda at decision to incarcerate Japanese employee…but an important part of our team! (510) 676-3820 or Ed Oda at Americans and Japanese immi- Annual Community Picnic Creative, Committed, Dependable, Team-Player, Positive (510) 538-6380. grants during World War II. This in- Redlands, CA and Outgoing - if these are some of the words that describe augural exhibit shows the opinions June 25 your work values and you want to help make a difference in Contra Costa JACL Oakland A’s leading up to the incarceration, Sylvan Park people’s lives while contributing toward the future of the Game 1941-42, with letters, resolutions, 601 N. University St. Japanese American (JA) community, maybe a career at Oakland, CA blueprints, photos and archival Come and join the Riverside JACL the Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Northern July 17; 1:05 p.m. documents from across Oregon. at its annual community picnic California (JCCCNC) is for you. Oakland Coliseum (Oracle Arena) featuring an afternoon of fun, Malheur County was the site of 7000 Coliseum Way games and dear friends. the first Japanese American farm How would you like to wake up every day knowing that your Price: Tickets $10; optional bento Info: Visit www.riversidejacl.org. labor camp. A number of docu- hard work makes a difference and people appreciate your box $15 (seniors/kids $10) ments from Ontario can also be dedication? That's what it’s like to work at the JCCCNC! Come enjoy the Oakland A’s seen in the exhibit. take on the Cleveland Indians at Info: Call (541) 889-8191. These are all full-time positions with benefits. Involvement the chapter’s annual trip to the PNW with the JA community and understanding of JA culture, ballpark. Seats are located in the Gambatte Be Strong: Stories of traditions and heritage is a definite plus. shade, and this year the chapter Japanese American Displacement CCDC is offering optional bento box and Resilience in Portland If you’re interested in helping to preserve and promote lunches. There is a limit of 50 Portland, OR Lantern Making Workshop culture and community, please email or forward a cover tickets this year, so sign up early. May 27 and 28; 2 p.m. Sat. and Fresno, CA letter and resume to [email protected]. Job descriptions Deadline is June 20. 7 p.m. Sun. June 23 and 24; 1:30-4 p.m. Fri. available on our website: jcccnc.org. No phone calls, Info: Call Judy at (510) 528-6564 or and 9:30 a.m.-Noon Sat. please. email [email protected]. The Interstate Firehouse Cultural Center California State University, Fresno OBITUARIES May 19-June 1, 2017 11

WWII, her family and she were in- Honolulu, March 31; he is sur- Nishizu, Trudes Tsuyako carcerated at the Manzanar WRA vived by his wife, Hatsue; sons, (Osajima), 95, Monterey Park, Center in Calif.; she was prede- Carl Nishihira, Kenn (Iris) Nishi- CA, April 27; she is survived by ceased by her husband, Isamu; hira and Jason (Sheri) Kina; gc: 6; her husband, John; children, Ste- Aoyagi, Daniel H., 94, Kailua, HI, Chan and Eugene (Nancy) Chow; she is survived by her children, ggc: 2. ven (Mariko), Norman (Tracy) April 11; he is survived by his wife, she is also survived by nieces and Marion Cowee (John), Audrey Nishizu, Gay (Mark) Rutherford Chiyoko; sons, Bryan (Denise) nephews; gc: 6; ggc: 2. Toy (William), Bruce (Valerie) and Kurose, Frank, 84, San Jose, and Joyce (David) Tanimoto; and Nathan (Carolyn); sister, John (Daphne Rhoe); gc: 6; and CA, April 5; he was predeceased sister, Sumiko Abe; she is also Ethel McKillop; gc: 4; ggc: 6. Hashioka, Henry K., 98, Los ggc: 1. by his wife, Gayle; he is survived survived by many nephews, Angeles, April 3; he is survived by his children, Lori (Devin) Ishi- nieces and other relatives; gc: 9. Asato, Jean, 84, San Jose, CA, by his wife, May; sons, David and Imamoto, Nobuko June, 91, da, Sandi (Craig) Rosner and April 15; during WWII, her fam- Stanley Hashioka; daughter, Bar- North Hollywood, CA, April 4; Scott (Janeth) Kurose; gc: 3. Tsuha, Judy Hisako, 89, ily and she were interned at the bara Hashioka; he is also survived she is survived by her sons, Mark Gardena, CA, March 21; she Rohwer WRA Center in Ark.; she by many nieces, nephews and Masanobu, Craig Junji, Keith Kumao, Matsumoto, 83, was predeceased by her hus- returned to California in 1967 with other relatives. Katsumi and Jay Kanji Imamoto; Torrance, CA, April 22; he is sur- band, Ralph, and daughter, Irene her husband, Yoshinori Asato, daughters-in-law, Normelita and vived by his wife, Amy; children, Takamine; she is survived by her son, Steven, and daughter, Tami Hirata, Eugene Ray, 61, Weiser, Maria Isabel; she is also survived Mark (Cindy) Matsumoto, Mavis daughters, Evelyn Tsuha and “Yosh” Asato. She is survived ID, April 30; he is survived by by many nieces, nephews and (Robert) Bruder and Lori Tanio- Millie (Jeff) Reith; gc: 2; ggc: 2. by her daughter and siblings, his parents, Charlotte and Eichi other relatives; gc: 4. ka; siblings, Matsue Moore and Betty Kanapilly, Bob Yamate and Hirata; brothers, Edward (Doreen) George (Jane) Matsumoto; he Wakiji, George M., 88, Arleta, Junichi Yamate. and Harvey (Rhonda) Hirata; half- Kanemoto, Michiko, 91, is also survived by many nieces, CA, May 7; he is survived by his siblings, Eichi (Ginger) Hirata Monterey Park, CA, April 17; she nephews and cousins; gc: 4. wife, Betty; daughter, Dana (Tom); Chow, Wan Yee, 97, San Jr., Todd (Jacqueline) Galindo was predeceased by her hus- sister, Takeko; he is also survived Francisco, April 26; she was and Terri (Tyler) Strickland; he is band, George; she is survived Miyake, Mitsue, 79, Gardena, by nieces and a nephew. predeceased by her husband, also survived by many nephews, by her children, Jeri (Michael) CA, April 7; she is survived by her Harry; she is survived by her nieces and cousins. Miller, Craig Kanemoto and Karen sons, Shayne Yoshihisa (Marga- Yanari, Eunice Kotoye, 94, Palo children, Emory (Janice) Chow, (Warren) Arata; gc: 2. ret) Ikeda and Robert Masao (Aki) Alto, CA, March 15; during WWII, Carol (Marvin) Sakamoto, Emily Hironaka, Carol Michiko , 92, Ikeda; daughter-in-law, Junko her family and she were incarcer- (Manny) Mahon, Helen (Gerald) Sacramento, CA, April 4; during Katayama, June Cecilia, 91, Ikeda; she is also survived by ated at the Heart Mountain WRA San Diego, April 18; she was pre- many nieces, nephews and other Center in Wyo.; she is survived deceased by her husband, Hideo; relatives; gc: 4; ggc: 1. by her husband, Yoshio; children, TRIBUTE she is survived by her children, Yoko and Carl (Doris); gc: 2. Frederick, Andrew, Stephen and Muramoto, William M., 82, Gar- George Wakiji passed away peace- Patricia Mari; gc: 4. den Grove, CA, April 2; he is sur- Yasaki, Edward K., 87, Cuper- fully Sunday, May 7, in his apartment at vived by his siblings, Philip and tino, CA, Jan. 29; during WWII, Nikkei Senior Gardens in Arleta, Calif. Kina, Richard Shoichi, 89, Barbara Okabayashi. his family and he were incarcer- George was a man of many interests ated at the Granada WRA Center and talents, including his love of jazz (Camp Amache) in Colo.; he is music. After being drafted in November TRIBUTE of 1950, he served in the U.S. Army in survived by his wife, Michi Ruth; sister, Grace Harada; he is also the Korean War, receiving his honor- Sumako “Sue” Nishinaka or Auntie Sue able discharge in September of 1952. to her many nieces and nephews, 92, survived by many nephews and n He then attended UCLA and California passed away on April 11, 2017, as she nieces. State University, Los Angeles, getting listened to Diane and Toni singing “Jesus bachelor’s degrees in pre-social wel- Loves the Little Children”. She raised fare and journalism. During his time at her hand that last time and passed into PLACE A TRIBUTE UCLA, George participated in Project God’s caring hands. She was the widow GEORGE WAKIJI India, which sparked a lifelong love of of Masami “John“ Nishinaka. They shared ‘In Memoriam’ is a free travel. George visited many countries, 36 years of marriage together here in San listing that appears on a including Japan, China, Korea, Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Pedro. She was born in Los Angeles, limited, space-available basis. Thailand, Australia, New Zealand, Tonga, Samoa, Fiji, Jordan, Israel, CA where she was the oldest child and Tributes honor your loved England, France, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, India, Morocco, Tunisia, daughter of Goro and Kane Inouye. Sue ones with text and photos and Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Guatemala, Mexico, Cuba, Dominican SUMAKO “SUE” was a trained pianist and could also play appear in a timely manner at Republic, Haiti, plus other places such as Bermuda, Puerto Rico and NISHINAKA by ear. She probably knew 100s of gospel Hawaii. songs and classical pieces by heart. the rate of $20/column inch. George started his career at TWA (Trans World Airlines) in Los Ange- Although Auntie Sue attended Roosevelt Contact: les as a cargo handler, reservations sales agent and international sales High School she actually graduated from the Poston, Arizona Internment [email protected] agent, then transferred to New York City, where he was an international Camp A. Her family had been incarcerated there during World War II. During or call (213) 620-1767 sales agent, supervisor and sales trainer. George moved to Chicago to the war Sue drove an ambulance between the 3 camps and eventually work as a public relations executive, then as principal for Suzuki, Wakiji moved to Chicago to work in the Baby Ruth factory as a way to earn extra & Associates, an advertising, pubic relations and marketing firm. Be- money for her family. Sue loved learning and eventually completed her tween jobs he worked as a bartender at Kamehachi restaurant. In 1972, AA work at LA Harbor College. Following the war Sue returned with her George began his government career, first as regional public informa- husband Masami from Murray Utah to the family’s San Pedro home. She tion officer for ACTION, a federal volunteer agency, for the Midwest re- completed a master tailoring course in Los Angeles and applied that skill in gion. He was promoted to press officer for ACTION in Washington, D.C. sewing her clothes as well as her daughter’s outfits. Sue worked at various in October of 1975. In October of 1986, George joined the U.S. Peace jobs including selling Christmas cards to friends and family alike, assisting Corps as a country director for the Kingdom of Tonga in the South Pa- in Toyo Imanaka’s tailoring shop and then eventually retired from the U.S. cific. He returned to the United States in 1990 and competed his term Customs Service as an Import Specialist in 1990. with the Peace Corps as a minority recruitment specialist in Washing- Sue accepted Jesus Christ in her youth. Following the war she looked for ton, D.C. George later served as public information officer with the U.S. a church, driving all the way to Los Angeles to Evergreen Baptist, Gardena Department of Labor in the Employment and Training Administration. Baptist and then became a founding member of Ocean View Baptist Church He retired from government service in March of 1995 to become execu- in San Pedro. She brought her children up in that initial store front church tive director of the newly formed National Japanese American Memo- and filled her car with local Japanese children to go to Sunday School. rial Foundation. After retirement from JAMF, George worked part-time She enjoyed working with children and youth, both while her children were for FEMA, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and went on growing up and well into retirement. She played the piano and organ at assignments to Maine, Oklahoma, Florida and Texas during disasters. Ocean View Baptist Church for almost 50 years. He also worked at Kohl’s and Crate & Barrel in Alexandria, Virginia. In Her hobbies included knitting, crocheting, Bunka, origami, pottery, gardening and traveling the world. Sue enjoyed cooking all kinds of food. his free time, George spent time speaking to elementary, high school Her special treat was preparing all kinds of Japanese specialties for New and college students in Virginia and Maryland about the internment of Year’s Day. The Japanese families held open house feasts and those who Japanese-Americans during World War II. Since 2000, George served weren’t cooking traveled from home to home feasting on the goodies. The as a part-time proctor for final exams at Pepperdine University School house was cleaned from top to bottom, all of the special China was washed of Law. and various foods that could be made ahead were prepped and stored in George is survived by his wife, Betty; daughter, Dana (Tom); sister, the refrigerator. Then she cooked all day long with a smile on her face. Takeko; nieces Hisae, Misako, Kathleen, Vivian, Eileen and Geraldine; Sue is survived by her children Jennie (and Art) Duggan and Dave (and nephew Ken. Brenda) Nishinaka. She is survived by her younger brother Roy (and Jo Friends and family members celebrated George’s life on May 15 at Ann) Inouye and is preceded in death by her brother Eugene Inouye and Fukui Mortuary, 707 East Temple Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012. sisters Mary Kawabata and Eunice Miyatake. 12 May 19-June 1, 2017 COMMENTARY/COMMUNITY JAPAN >> continued from page 3 NATIVE HAWAIIANS >> continued from page 9

PHOTO: GIL ASAKAWA Let me clarify my intentions in stating this as such. charter schools. I do not suggest that Japanese Americans be burdened We are still a long way from seeing Hawaiian by historical wrongs and circumstances beyond our language back in popular usage, but Native Hawaiian control. That responsibility lies with the U.S. govern- customs and traditions such as music, dance, art and ment. No one chooses where he or she is born. We food are being reintegrated into society that was un- should, however, acknowledge that our community is thinkable even a couple decades ago. far better represented economically, socially and po- Although the future of an ethnically Native litically than Native Hawaiians in their own islands. Hawaiian people remains bleak, Hawaiian culture Those of us who are Japanese Hawaiian or have will live on in future generations who inhabit their roots in that experience should acknowledge our islands. I’d like to end this piece with a Hawaiian relative privilege and actively seek to support the proverb: “A`ohe pau ka ‘ike i ka halau ho`okahi” — All Author-educator Lane Hirabayashi was the keynote speaker Native Hawaiian community as its allies. We should knowledge is not taught in one school. at Mile High JACL’s Day of Remembrance event, which drew be intentional in creating a space for PI narratives and As we ask others to learn about the legacy of a standing-room-only crowd. voices to take a more significant role in our movement, Japanese Americans, let’s do a better job of and while we may have differing opinions on the con- educating ourselves. We could learn a lot from our Abe’s outreach to Trump, and the ducts — like food, toys, machines troversial question of indigenous sovereignty, let’s be Hawaiian cousins. nudge from Kim Jong-un’s missile and cars — the ripple effects will careful not to project our own experiences onto some- threat, seems to have helped seal be felt not just in the U.S. economy one else’s. Rob Buscher is a member of the JACL the cracking relationship between but around the world. The struggles of Pacific Islanders and especially Philadelphia Board of Directors. our two countries. Trump has It remains to be seen how this Native Hawaiians are incredibly different from affirmed the close relationship closest of relationships between the our own, yet I have found a good deal of simi- with Japan and has pledged to U.S. and Japan evolves during the larities at least regarding our quest for cultural protect Japan, as has been the case Trump presidency. But we should reclamation. since the end of World War II. all be watching closely because if Native Hawaiians faced an intentional era- He still isn’t inclined to sign on to it doesn’t affect us personally (and sure of their cultural identity for much of their the TPP (leaving China to become probably will, in our wallets), it history under the dominion of the U.S. — first as a the dominant economic force in might affect our relatives across territory and now as a state. From the beginning Asia), but the U.S. is negotiating the Pacific. of U.S. colonization, Hawaiian language and cus- on trade deals directly with Japan. Gil Asakawa is chair of the toms were forbidden, and the linear succession of We’ll see if products from Japan Editorial Board of the Pacific indigenous oral tradition was broken. end up more expensive because of Citizen and the author of “Being Their language was on the brink of extinction, tariffs charged to import them in Japanese American” (second edi- but since the cultural reclamation movements the U.S. tion Stone Bridge Press, 2015). of the 1960s and ’70s, Hawaiian language If consumers shun these pro- He blogs at www.nikkeiview.com. and culture has begun returning to public and Early Japanese Hawaiian sugarcane workers

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In 1947, the grateful but still ravaged City The new element is based on the shoulder of Bruyères France built near Hill 555 a patch of the 100/442nd RCT. Please simple stone monument in honor of the see the “Torch” element depicted in the Americans of Japanese descent who in background. With the final design and Get a better October 1944 liberated their city from placement approved by the Mayor and rate and up the German invaders. This historically City Council, work will be completed for important monument is now showing the the rededication ceremony on October 15, Tell them to $500 cash effects of its age, exposure to the weather 2017. You are invited to attend. and occasional vandalism. Friends and you want to back. Every penny collected will be used to family of the 100th/442nd RCT seek to Call us to get reimburse the City of Bruyères on a nance at renew the monument and add a new progress basis. None of the contributions pre-approved. memorial element in memory of all those will be used for any personal purpose. JACL CU. who fought and sacrificed in this heroic We are a third of the way to our goal of effort -- the 100th/442nd RCT, the 522 $35,000. Use this innovative auto buying resource that connects you with FAB and the 232 ENG. comprehensive research and comparison tools. Make a smart buying decision with competitive credit union nancing. Know Before You Go! Please go to hill555.org and help push us over the finish line. Thank you. 800-544-8828 www.jaclcu.com This advertisement paid for by donors to the Hill 555 Project. PROMO CODE: PCAUTO2016