Despite Little Tokyos vibrancy.

also reflected on the role of dance in creating a specifically Nikkei LGBTQ+ space.minyo dancers Mariko Cam.

act in ways that felt natural.sharing that Some of our current members identify as LGBTQIA+ and it is an amazing opportunity to perform…for Okaeris community as a symbiotic relationship of sharing our art…while being provided [a] space that feels like home.(Photo by Willa Cutolo)One such element was the creation of an original Okaeri Ondo song and dance to encapsulate the spirit of welcoming queer and trans individuals as family.

As one of this years matsuri committee members reflected.its not always easy to find such spaces for queer Nikkei.

As Mariko Rooks beautifully sums up: Having so many generations of queer Nikkei in the same space is such a powerful testament to our communitys longevity and futurity.

sometimes even by their own families and communities.Don!! For providing a Dodger home base in Little Tokyo!Everyone was part of the Dodger family.

your writing and fantastic cartoon characters! Articles for you@media ( min-width: 300px ){.This column and my heartfelt thanks and best wishes are dedicated to Gwen Muranaka.

standing up waving banners and other Dodger paraphernalia out of sunroofs.But I am a BIG fan of Little Tokyo.