yuimaru

In 1948, the Hawaii Okinawan community banded together to help the people of Okinawa after the devastation of WWII. They raised over $50,000 (today, that would be about half a million) and sent over 550 pigs from Omaha, Nebraska (via Porttland, Oregon) on the USS John Owen. Seven men were sent to keep the pigs alive. One month later, the pigs arrived in Okinawa. The pigs were distributed across the islands. Okinawans today still talk of the pigs that came across the sea and how much this life saving gift of aloha changed their lives.

This story is about yuimaru. Communities supporting one another, especially in times of need. It is a reminder for all of us to live yuimaru, in both small and big endeavors and decisions.

A special commencement celebration featuring Okinawan drumming was held on the Great Lawn of Kapi’olani Community College on Saturday, May 14, 2011. Program ran from 6 pm and to 9 pm.

Eisa is a form of dance and drumming unique to Okinawa. Participating eisa groups were Chinagu Eisa Hawaii, Hawaii Eisa Chimugukuru Daiko Hawaii and the Young Okinawans of Hawaii. Taiko Center of the Pacific and the Paranku Clubs of Hawaii performed as special guests.
The event showcased the different styles of eisa (traditional and contemporary) with the contrast of Japanese taiko. It also united all four groups in an exciting finale!

There was also a gathering of the Shisa Lions and live music by Urizun Minyo Group, Derek Fujio, Norman Kaneshiro and Derek Ichiro Shiroma.