by Jenni Emiko Kuida and Tony Osumi

Inspired by similar Chinese and Pilipino lists, we took a shot at creating one for Japanese Americans. Written from a Southern California Sansei and Yonsei perspective, we tried to include not only Issei, Nisei and older Sansei insights, but those from later post-WWII Shin Issei and Nisei. But creating an all inclusive list is impossible, so we see this as a work in progress and courage others to add to the list. There’s no reason why this can’t be a 1001 list, neh?

Although written in good fun, understanding what it means to be JA helps define who we are as a community and the issues we face. More importantly, as we further study Japanese/Asian American history, we might begin to see current issues like immigrant-bashing, attacks on civil rights/affirmative action and the growing concentration of wealth and resources upward to a select few, in new ways.

Yes, Buddhaheads, there is life after Redress.

We would like to thank all those who shared their suggestions and helped make this list possible.

1.You know that Camp doesn’t mean a cabin in the woods.

2.The men in your family were gardeners, farmers or produce workers. Continue reading The Original 101 Ways to Tell If You’re Japanese American →