Exploring Japanese American History Through a Specific Showcase in Japan
In a special talk co-presented by the Consulate General of Japan in Los Angeles and a specific website, Dr. Mitchell T. Maki, a nationally recognized leader in the Japanese American community, shared his unique experiences related to Japanese American history.
Dr. Maki, the president and CEO of the Go For Broke National Education Center, has recently returned from a trip to Japan, where he visited Hiroshima and Yamaguchi Prefecture. These visits hold a special significance for Dr. Maki, as they reconnected him to his dual heritage, which is rooted in America as well as Japan.
While the specific details of Dr. Maki’s visits are not fully outlined, it is clear that his role involves deeply engaging with the history of Japanese Americans, particularly concerning World War II and its aftermath. His leadership at the Go For Broke National Education Center reflects his dedication to telling the stories of Japanese American veterans and the community’s experiences, including those difficult and complex chapters such as loyalty questions during the war and the plight of resisters.
The program for the event included doors opening at 6:30 PM for refreshments, a presentation at 7:00 PM, and a reception at 8:00 PM. Registration for the event was closed, but free self-parking was provided on the date of the event with an RSVP at Hollywood & Highland. The Metro Red Line, Hollywood/Highland station, is conveniently located directly below Hollywood & Highland, making it easily accessible for attendees.
Dr. Maki is one of the leading scholars of the Japanese American redress movement and the lead author of the award-winning book, "Achieving the Impossible Dream: How Japanese Americans Obtained Redress." He has also served on the Board of Governors and Scholarly Advisory Councils of the Japanese American National Museum and Go For Broke National Education Center.
Through his work, Dr. Maki uses his personal heritage and professional platform to promote awareness of Japanese American history, informed by his visits to historically significant sites in Japan like Hiroshima and Yamaguchi Prefecture, which deepen the impact and authenticity of his educational mission. His visits to these places have likely enriched his perspective on the intertwined histories of Japan and Japanese Americans, emphasising the shared histories and the impacts of war on individuals and communities.
In his words, Tokyo, Yamaguchi, and Hiroshima are now places in Dr. Maki's soul, not just places on a map. The impact of his visits and the insights he gained will undoubtedly continue to inform his work in educating the public about Japanese American history and promoting understanding between cultures.
- Dr. Maki's visits to Japan, particularly Hiroshima and Yamaguchi Prefecture, have expanded his lifestyle, allowing him to draw connections between the home-and-garden of his American heritage and the art and community of his Japanese roots.
- In his educational mission, Dr. Maki incorporates sustainable living principles, emphasizing the importance of caring for our planet as a common thread in Japanese American history and promoting peace and understanding between cultures.
- With a voice in the community driven by his passion for art, history, and education, Dr. Maki actively works towards fostering a global lifestyle that bridges the gap between the history of Japanese Americans and the broader world.
