Report

As part of the preparatory training for the Hawai‘i short-term study program, we hosted an online lecture by Professor Mari Yoshihara (University of Hawai‘i, The University of Tokyo).

Title: “Rethinking ‘America’ from the Perspective of Hawai‘i”
Lecturer: Mari Yoshihara (Professor of American Studies, University of Hawai‘i; Center for Global Education, University of Tokyo)
Date and Time: Wednesday, August 21, 2024, 10:30 – 12:00
Format: Online via Zoom
Overview:
This lecture provided participants with essential insights for a deeper understanding of Hawai‘i as they prepare for the short-term study program. By comparing Okinawa and Hawai‘i, the lecture offered a framework to critically examine the essence of the United States as a nation. Topics included the colonization and Americanization of Hawai‘i, the role of Japanese immigrants, the complexities of multiculturalism, and the impacts of colonialism and capitalism from the perspective of Native Hawai‘ians.

A key focus was on uncovering challenges behind Hawai‘i’s multicultural coexistence and questioning, “Is Hawai‘i truly ‘America’?” Through this lens, students were encouraged to reconsider “America” while exploring historical parallels and contrasts between Okinawa and Hawai‘i. The lecture offered valuable insights in preparation for the program.

The session sparked a lively discussion, with students raising a variety of questions. Topics included the nature of diversity in Hawai‘i, the use of the term “local,” issues of poverty and social stratification, and the cultural ties of Okinawa and Japan to Hawai‘i. Discussions also covered the position of Native Hawai‘ians from the perspectives of both majority and minority populations, fostering a dynamic and multifaceted exchange.