Japan, Same but Different
Growing up in Hawaii we were always called and considered a “melting pot” of people. Meaning lots of ethnicities, cultures and traditions all practiced in one place. Many of our forefathers and mothers were brought to the islands to work in the sugar plantation. But by doing this they brought together thousands of people who eventually created the unique aspect of Hawaiis blended families.
Japan for the most part has been seen as the opposite of that. Being exclusive to Japanese people for years, then slowly opening its borders to foreigners. Looking at the general population especially now that Covid-19 has caused closures and almost complete exclusion; there is very little visible signs of inclusion.
I have had talks about this with family and friends but really didn’t feel like it was the case until moving during the pandemic. Now this isn’t a bad thing, but for someone who grew up with many mixed family members and friends, its kind of an eye opening moment.
A small part of me feels like sometimes people are looking at me, trying to decide whether or not I am Japanese or something else. It honestly doesn’t bother me but the question lingers in the back of my mind.
Through the course of our almost two months here in Japan we have met a few people around the neighborhood, who are becoming close friends. The other day we were invited to a martial arts performance and practice. Being from a martial art background I was intrigued.
The style or technique is called Kalaripayattu it is derived from India and our friend is a master at it. He teaches his wife, children and some of the neighbors and their friends. The performance was in honor of HIS Gurus’ (teacher) celebration of life. It was amazing to see other cultures traditions preformed in front of us and what gave me a sense of warming feeling was the fact that the Japanese people attending were giving it respect, honor and dedication it deserved.
After the performance and practice was done, we gathered outside to enjoy some amazing Indian food prepared by our friend. He is an amazing cook and shares his experience through food with all of us. Everyone loves his food, which for me was another sign of acceptance.
The people gathered showed true and pure desire to experience the martial art, the food and the stories shared. To me, it showed almost a sense of inclusion that I was missing from Hawaii.
It dawned on me while there that being inclusive doesn’t always mean everyone being mixed or having multiple ethnicities surround you. Its about being able to embrace the culture and traditions of others. And I do know that not all of the Japanese Nationals in this country are inclusive, like everywhere there are those who are not but for the people I’ve met, they are a great example of what being accepting is.
I am so thankful to have been part of this experience. It has helped me open my eyes a little more to the subtle similarities Japan has to Hawaii in its own different way.
