Japanese America

Arts EN ↓ 31 episodes

Welcome to "Japanese America," where the Japanese American National Museum unveils captivating stories that add a Nikkei slant to the American narrative. In each episode, we explore the unique experiences, challenges, and triumphs of Japanese Americans, illuminating their rich contributions to the mosaic of American life. From historical milestones to contemporary perspectives, join us for an insightful journey through the curated collection of the Japanese American National Museum, showcasing the diverse tapestry of a community that has shaped the American story in extraordinary ways. Welcom...

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Japanese America

Episodes

S1E6 Dear Attorney General 15.07.2024 25:33

Send us Fan Mail Hosts Michelle and Koji explore parenthood, cultural heritage, and resilience through personal narratives and historical references. In part three, Koji’s grandparents' attempt to stay in the United States after renouncing their citizenship with the help of civil rights lawyer Wayne Collins and their friends/family. ABOUT OUR READER Derek Mio is an actor and comedian from Hun...

S2E5 Grandpa the Renunciant 17.06.2024 23:00

Send us Fan Mail This episode delves into the complex intergenerational impacts of identity and citizenship within a Japanese American family, particularly focusing on the decisions made by Koji’s grandfather, Takaiichi Sakai, during his incarceration in a WWII concentration camp. Featuring actor Derek Mio, the episode combines personal stories with historical analysis, exploring themes of loyalty...

S1E4 Grandpa the Spy? 16.05.2024 25:50

Send us Fan Mail Hosts Koji and Michelle delve into the complexities of Japanese American identity through Koji’s unique family story. They examine why he was sent from Hawaii to America’s concentration camps and how they answered the contentious loyalty questionnaire. The episode provides a multifaceted look at the Japanese American experience, from the pride in samurai ancestry to the moral dile...

Ep 3 The First Manzanar Pilgrimage 15.04.2024 27:43

Send us Fan Mail Hosts Michelle Malizaki and Koji Steven Sakai delve into the history of the Manzanar pilgrimage. They discuss its historical significance, personal connections, and the necessity of education to prevent similar injustices. If you’re interested in joining this year’s pilgrimage, here is a link for more information: https://manzanarcommittee.org/2024/02/09/55-pr1/ ABOUT PILGRIMAG...

Ep 2 Karate Kid Revisited 18.03.2024 30:04

Send us Fan Mail In the second episode of the Japanese America Podcast, Koji Steven Sakai and Michelle Malizaki discuss the 1984 film "The Karate Kid," exploring its portrayal of Japanese culture and reimagining some of its iconic scenes to highlight issues of cultural representation and racism. They touch upon the significance of Mr. Miyagi's backstory of being in a Japanese Americ...

Yuri Kochiyama's Diary with Actor Sierra Katow 19.02.2024 34:32

Send us Fan Mail Explore the life and enduring legacy of Yuri Kochiyama, a Japanese American woman whose experiences during WWII in concentration camps ignited her transformation into a civil rights icon. In this podcast episode, hosts Koji Steven Sakai and Michelle Malizaki delve into the intimate thoughts and profound adversities captured in Yuri's diary. From tales of community resilience...