we released our energy through Obon dancing led by Gia Gunn! This was the perfect way to culminate a Nikkei gathering of queer and trans folks — I could feel the love and liberation permeating the room.

Navajo/Diné quilter from Sheep Springs.a pioneering Grammy-nominated Asian American band that blends the sounds of the koto with keyboards.

rockabilly and country musician from Austin.Kudo Sensei recognized Kuramotos talent and her ability to emotionally connect to the music.recipients of the nations highest honor in the folk and traditional arts.

Okinawan dancer (2012)Roy and PJ Hirabayashi.Fellowship recipients are nominated by the public.

Kuramoto is an in-demand solo artist at community events like the annual Day of Remembrance which is a time to reflect upon the years of suffering by Japanese Americans incarcerated during World War II.

taiko drum leaders (2011)Violet Kazue de Cristoforo.email imaginelittletokyo@gmail.

The story has to be fictional and set in a current.The purpose of the contest is to raise awareness of Little Tokyo through a creative story that takes place there.

Japanese language and youth (18 and younger).A hybrid (in-person and virtual) award ceremony and dramatic readings of the winning stories are also being planned at the Japanese American National Museum.