Hello, my name is Mayumi Sakugawa, but my real name is Emilly Mayumi Goto. Born in 2002 in Yachiyo-Shi City, Japan, my name has a deep and special meaning. Mayumi, which means “Beautiful and True Reason,” was chosen by my mother, and I feel great affection for this name. It represents my identity and connection to my cultural heritage.

My family has an interesting tradition that dates back to 1918, when my great-great-grandparents left Japan in search of a better life in Brazil. Since then, we have followed the tradition of giving our children a Brazilian first name and a Japanese middle name, a practice that helps to avoid prejudices associated with names in our society. While my real name reflects this heritage, I prefer to be called Mayumi, especially in my daily life and at work. Although my first name doesn’t resonate as well with me, I have no intention of changing it. I believe that names carry important stories and meanings.

I grew up hearing stories about the struggles and challenges my ancestors faced in their quest for a brighter future. This family tradition is very meaningful to me, and the nickname I carry among my family, “Mi,” is a loving way of connecting with them. On the other hand, my name has also exposed me to difficult situations. I have faced discrimination due to my name and appearance, which made me sad, but at the same time, it strengthened my determination to accept myself and embrace my identity.

My mother is a strong and adventurous woman who has always loved to travel and explore the world. She met my father in Chiba, Japan, in the 1990s, while they were both working at the same company. Their love blossomed amidst hardships and different cultures, leading them to build a life together for 12 years. However, in 2009, after my parents separated, my mother and I moved to São Paulo, Brazil. This transition was a defining moment in my life and brought new challenges and opportunities.

Even though I left Japan, I keep my family's tradition alive. We celebrate special dates like Matsuri and other Japanese festivals, and at home we love to cultivate Japanese culture, decorating our space with Neko Chan figures and other elements of Japanese folklore. Through these celebrations, I feel a strong connection to my roots and I have learned to value every aspect of the culture that my ancestors brought to Brazil. And my mother has always supported me and, even though she is separated from my father, she respects my origins and she loves Japan!

In addition to the affection for the surname Sakugawa, which comes from my “batchan”, paternal grandmother, (my grandfather did not want to include Sakugawa in the family and preferred Goto), but Goto is from my paternal grandfather. The surname Sakugawa has always caught my attention, because it represents the strong woman who was my “batchan”. She makes the best yakisoba in the world!

Growing up, I made many friends, but it wasn’t always easy. The struggles of adapting to a new country and dealing with societal pressure regarding my name and appearance left their mark. On the other hand, I learned to be resilient. Through education and the pursuit of self-knowledge, I found ways to celebrate my identity, rather than hide it.

In Brazil, I always tried to learn more about the local culture, making friends and understanding the different traditions. I got involved in communities of Japanese descendants and participated in events that promoted unity and celebration of cultures. My heart fills with joy when I see people like me, who honor their origins and share their stories.

Today, I have great respect for the challenges that come with my hybrid heritage. I have learned that being bicultural is a gift that provides me with different perspectives and unique opportunities. I am committed to moving my story forward, showing that the different sides of who we are can coexist and enrich our lives.

My relationship with my mother is a huge part of my life. She has always supported me in my decisions and dreamed big for me. Together, we explored both Brazilian and Japanese culture, and she encouraged me to be the best version of myself. We talk a lot about our ancestors, and their stories are a constant source of inspiration for me.

I hope to visit Japan again one day, to reconnect with the roots I left behind. Being able to explore the places where my family lived and relive their most cherished traditions would be a dream come true. And being able to see my father again.

I also have a genuine love for Japanese folklore. The stories of yokai, gods, and the traditions surrounding these enchanted characters have always fascinated me. I learned about them in preschool in Chiba.

Today, as I navigate the complexities of life, I carry with me all the teachings my family has given me. My grandmother’s patience and wisdom, my mother’s strength, and the warmth of my friends have sustained me along the way. Mayumi Sakugawa is more than a name—she is a legacy of courage and tradition that I will continue to honor.

By sharing my story, I hope to inspire others to embrace who they are and value their roots, no matter where they come from. Diversity is what makes the world beautiful, and each of us carries a piece of our story that deserves to be told. With love and care, I thank you for listening and hope that everyone finds their own voice and identity in whatever they choose to pursue.

 

© 2024 Mayumi Sakugawa