Miree Ya Kugani: A Bright Hopeful Future - Celebrating the 125th Anniversary of Okinawan Immigration to Hawaii
February 7, 2025-May 19, 2025
Location: Bridge Gallery
On January 8, 1900, twenty-six Okinawan men arrived in Honolulu and were recorded as the first Okinawan immigrants to Hawaii. In the following years, more Okinawan Issei (first-generation) immigrated to Hawaii to work as laborers for the booming plantation industry. They persevered through harsh labor conditions and established roots in Hawaii in hopes of a brighter future. Today, there are estimated to be over 40,000 Okinawans living in Hawaii, now into the fifth and sixth generations.
This exhibit commemorating the 125th anniversary highlights the history of Okinawans in Hawaii from the first immigrants’ arrival to their impact on the present generations. Learn about the rich culture of Okinawa and how the culture is being perpetuated in Hawaii.
