Examining Japanese American Heritage: A Notable Exposition in Japan
Dr. Mitchell T. Maki Shares Japanese American History in Japan
Dr. Mitchell T. Maki, a nationally recognized leader in the Japanese American community, recently travelled to Japan to share the history and heritage of Japanese Americans, particularly their experiences during World War II.
Maki, the president/CEO of the Go For Broke National Education Center, is well-known for his work in preserving and sharing the history of Japanese American soldiers and their legacy. He has participated in commemorative and educational events in the U.S., such as recognising the life and service of Yoshio Nakamura, a Japanese American WWII Army veteran who recently celebrated his 100th birthday.
During his trip to Japan, Maki made presentations at respected academic institutions, reconnecting him to his dual heritage, rooted in America and Japan. He stated that Tokyo, Yamaguchi, and Hiroshima, which were previously just places on a map, are now places in his soul.
Maki's talk in Japan was co-presented by the Consulate General of Japan in Los Angeles and a certain website. The event took place with doors opening at 6:30 PM, followed by a presentation at 7:00 PM, and a reception at 8:00 PM. Free self-parking was provided on the date of the event with an RSVP, with the requirement to bring the parking ticket for validation. The parking garage at Hollywood & Highland can be entered from Highland Avenue or Orange Drive. Parking is validated at a certain website for 2 hours at a rate of $3; then $2 every 20 minutes or $6 per hour.
Maki's work underlines the loyalty, sacrifice, and cultural ethos of Japanese Americans during WWII, contributing significantly to public awareness and historical education. He is the lead author of the award-winning book, "Achieving the Impossible Dream: How Japanese Americans Obtained Redress." Maki 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.
Maki is a sought-after presenter on issues ranging from the Japanese American Redress movement to contemporary community issues. At the special talk in Japan, he discussed how his research and perspective were shaped by his trip to Japan.
For those who missed Maki's talk in Japan, he is a guest speaker at a special talk co-presented by the Consulate General of Japan in Los Angeles and a certain website. The Metro Red Line, Hollywood/Highland station, is conveniently located directly below Hollywood & Highland, making it easy for attendees to reach the event.
- Dr. Mitchell T. Maki's talk, focusing on Japanese American history and heritage, extended beyond traditional education settings, touching upon topics like art and lifestyle, as he discussed how his research and perspective were shaped during his trip to Tokyo, Yamaguchi, and Hiroshima.
- Maki's educational journey also includes outdoor living and home-and-garden aspects, as a part of his trip involved reconnecting with his dual heritage, rooted in America and Japan, which included exploring various landscapes and historical sites within these countries.
- With the Go For Broke National Education Center, Maki aims to inspire and educate the broader community about the resilience and cultural ethos of Japanese Americans during World War II, values that extend beyond history and into the realm of art, lifestyle, and outdoor-living.