This page is a running collection of the live oral histories conducted for Kizuna Project. As time comes between ourselves and the stories that made us, it becomes ever more important to listen carefully to the people who have lived those stories. We learn from their challenges and their triumphs, keeping history alive and honoring the experiences of Japanese families in America. The most recent interviews will always be listed first.
Miyoko Marian Matsunaga was born in 1926 in Kahuku, colloquially called “Marconi,” a small town on the northern tip of O’ahu. Marian and her seven siblings walked two miles to the public school and attended Japanese language school afterward. When WWII started, all Japanese language schools were shuttered, and her public school closed two days a week, sending students to work on the sugar cane and pineapple plantations to fill the labor shortage from men going to war. Please read her bio here and then listen to the video.
Carolyn Hanano Skinner and her mother were sent to the Heart Mountain camp under Executive Order 9066, and her father was arrested and scheduled for deportation to Japan. His landscape clients appealed to the government on his behalf, and he was allowed to join them. Her brother was later born there. Please read her bio here and then listen to the video.
Tsugiuo “Harley” Fujimoto was born in Colorado, the son of sharecroppers. His father worked in the Wyoming coal mines in the winter for extra income. With the bombing of Pearl Harbor, he was drafted and assigned to the 442 Regimental Combat Team. He then went to Military Language School. Please read his bio here and then listen to the video. Harley is receiving his questions in writing due to impaired hearing.
Trista Tamura, a passionate public school art teacher, reveals her personal journey as a fourth-generation Japanese American. Growing up in the quiet town of Hood River, Oregon, and now calling Tucson home for the past 16 years, Trista’s story is one of resilience and transformation. Her journey is a powerful reflection of self-discovery, a heartfelt reconnection with her cultural heritage, and an enduring determination to inspire hope and possibility for her son’s future. Please read her bio here and then listen to the video. Trista is wearing glasses in the interview due to cancer treatment.