fostering a positive mindset that aids recovery.

we will CONTINUE to educate and to inspire future generations.Marie TanakaThe luncheon was also a time to mourn the loss of Marie Tanaka.

Tomoko Sakurai and Joyce Chinn were recognized for their service to the organization.Photos by GWEN MURANAKA / Rafu ShimpoJapanese Womens Society of Southern California gathered for a 120th anniversary celebration on Oct.Kyoko Makiuchi and Noriko Towata gave a kendo demonstration.

Former president Itsuko Ramos led a moment of silence for Tanaka.The afternoon concluded with the a group photo in front of the JACCC.

president of Japanese Prefectural Association of Southern California (Nanka Kenjinkai Kyogikai) and Haru Takehana.

Donations were given to the JACCC.many LGBTQ+ Nikkei have expressed that they did not feel able to be themselves at more traditional events.

and attendees shared in the experience through the communal ondo dances.Due to factors including traditional gender norms and long-ingrained cultural and social expectations.

-based taiko group TaikoProject.in 2023 alone over 500 anti-LGBTQ+ bills were introduced across the country.