Discover Nikkei Logo

https://www.discovernikkei.org/en/events/2018/03/23/5525/

LooChoo (Okinawa) Identity Summit in Hawai‘i

Conference/Presentation
In Person
University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo
College of Hawaiian Language 200 West Kāwili Street Hilo, Hawaii, United States of America

Date: March 23, 2018 – March 25, 2018



Ukwanshin Kabudan and the Ka Haka ʻUla o Keʻelikōlani Center for Hawai‘ian Language invite members of Okinawan communities in the U.S. and across the world to attend the 2018 LooChoo (Ryūkyū) Identity Summit: “Sustaining the Breath of Our Native Languages.” The three-day conference will take place March 23 – 25 at the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo, Hawai‘i Island. Early registration is open until March 1.

“E Ala E!” is the Hawai‘ian call to wake up, just like the rising of the sun. “Kataibusan” meaning to want to speak (in the native Okinawan language). In this fourth LooChoo Identity conference, we are so honored to be in a space that is known internationally for language revitalization and incorporating the culture and values while never forgetting the roots. We will discuss how we will move on to pass on our Island Languages of LooChoo/Okinawa and what it means to us. We will look at how we can prepare for the generations to come after us, so our language can survive with our culture and traditions that have been passed down to us from our ancestors. Come join us on our continuing journey of discovery, sharing, and strengthening of who we are, with other Shimanchu (Okinawans) from all over.

Registration is now open. Please email ukwanshinevents@gmail.com for more information, or visit www.loochooidentity.org (special transportation and accommodation rates are available for a limited time). The early registration fee is $100 for adults, $75 for students. The deadline is March 1, 2018; the fee will increase $25 thereafter. An optional pre-summit study tour of Hawai‘i Island is also available.

Ukwanshin Kabudan is a non-profit, LooChoo (Ryūkyū) performing arts troupe based in Honolulu. The purpose of this organization is to maintain the traditional music, dance, and cultural art forms while fostering goodwill and understanding through sharing. Ukwanshin also participates in educational programs to promote cultural awareness. Regular workshops on LooChoo culture, history, music, dance, and language are held on O‘ahu, Maui, and Hawai‘i Island.


Attachments


conferences culture Hawai'i identity indigenous peoples language revival languages LooChoo (Ryukyu) Identity Summit native languages Okinawans Okinawa Prefecture Ryukyuan languages Ryukyu Islands shima kutuba Shimanchu Uchinaguchi Uchinanchu

Profile image of josephkamiya
josephkamiya Updated Dec. 7, 2024

Nikkei Events

From festivals and exhibitions to workshops and film screenings, find out what Nikkei-related events are happening virtually or near you! Remember, your participation is an important part of building a stronger community! FAQ

New Site Design

See exciting new changes to Discover Nikkei. Find out what’s new and what’s coming soon!
Learn More

Upcoming virtual events

July 7, 2025 - July 28, 2025 | Virtual
Manga for Teens: Shojo Manga Characters
Profile image of JSeducation JSeducation
July 10, 2025 - July 31, 2025 | Virtual
Manga for Teens: Manga Portraiture
Profile image of JSeducation JSeducation
July 12, 2025 | In Person / Virtual Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
Connecting Our Global Community: Panel Discussion and Book Talk
Profile image of editor editor

Discover Nikkei Updates

DISCOVER NIKKEI PROGRAM
July 12 • Burnaby, British Columbia
Join us for a book talk, reception, and panel discussion on Japanese Canadian history. The panel discussion will also be live-streamed via Zoom!
NIKKEI CHRONICLES #14
Nikkei Family 2: Remembering Roots, Leaving Legacies
Baachan, grandpa, tía, irmão… what does Nikkei family mean to you? Submit your story!
SUPPORT THE PROJECT
Discover Nikkei’s 20 for 20 campaign celebrates our first 20 years and jumpstarts our next 20. Learn more and donate!