Every year in June we set aside an evening at the Hawaii Okinawa Center to remember our ancestors, family members, friends, and all of Okinawa who experienced the tragic Battle of Okinawa in 1945. Many perished during the war while some survived and lived to share their horrific stories. It is through personal remembrances, music, prayer, and getting together as family, that we join Okinawa on June 22nd (Hawaii Time), to pray for peace and to remember those we lost.

Our theme for the commemoration is, “Surviving the Past and Present – Remembering the Battle of Okinawa.” As survivors were interviewed many attributed their survival to the precious beni imo, the Okinawan sweet potato. The beni imo continues to be one of the symbols of survival and longevity to the people of Okinawa.

IREI NO HI
Date: June 22, 2023
Time: 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Place: Hawaii Okinawa Center Legacy Ballroom

Program:
• Interview with Kyoko Hijirida, Sensei
• Music by Norman Kaneshiro, Sensei
• Videos courtesy of the HOT video team
• Fellowship with others for a thoughtful evening of remembrance

No RSVP necessary. Just come!

NOTE: If you are able, please bring your favorite beni imo dish to share!
Everyone is welcome so please share this information with family and friends, especially our youth, so they may learn more about their Uchinaanchu history.

With Aloha,
Gwen Fujie and the HUOA Club Sustainment Committee