Celebrating 125 Years of Okinawan Immigration

The first immigrants from Urasoe did not arrive in Hawaii until June 14, 1904. The four immigrants were Taro Uchima and Kamato Uchima, both from Nishihara village and Ryujiu Miyagi and Seiko Kinjo, both from Nakama village. Another four more arrived in Hawaii during the latter part of 1904. In 1905, another six immigrants from Ahacha, Takushi and Nishihara villages arrived. By 1906, almost 200 Urasoe immigrants arrived in Hawaii. These immigrants from Urasoe were all men, ranging in ages 16 to about 40 years old. These men were primarily contracted to be laborers for the sugar or pineapple plantations. By the end of the Taisho Period (1926) about 600 people emigrated from Urasoe.

In 1912, the Isseis established the Urasoe club. Unfortunately, historical records of the first several decades are unavailable.
During the past 40 years, the Urasoe Shi Jin Kai has been an active participant in the HUOA activities. During the late 1980s, Urasoe became responsible for the t-shirt booth during the two-day Okinawan Festival. The club has also been one of the primary “andagi cooking” crew during several HUOA events, including Saturday during the annual festival. In addition, event chairs have frequently tasked Urasoe to cook andagi during events held at the Hawaii Okinawa Center.

Urasoe has been successful in the athletic programs sponsored by HUOA. In 1985, Urasoe won both the softball and mixed volleyball championships. In subsequent years, Urasoe has been a frequent winner of the mixed volleyball championship.

Urasoe’s dedicated support of HUOA can be directly attributed to President George Miyashiro who is finally retiring after 40 years of personal sacrifice. During this period, he has led the transition from the 1st and 2nd generations to where we are today. He has fostered an environment that ensures both the young and the old are kept involved. Over 200 members volunteer every year at the annual festival. The older members help fold 5,000 to 6,000 t-shirts that are sold at the festival. The younger adults (volleyball and softball players) staff the andagi booth. The t-shirt booth is staffed primarily by the younger generation. Many adults began their involvement when they were children and now involve their children in the Okinawan experience. George Miyashiro has been the driving force in ensuring that Urasoe fully support the annual festival.

2025 will be a transition year for the club. During this period, the club leadership will shift to the 4th and 5th generations. As part of this transition, we hope that both generations become more aware of their ancestors. We expect them to bring technology and innovative ideas to ensure our membership continues to share the Uchinanchu spirit and fully support the Okinawan community.