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What was it like to be gay and Japanese American decades ago? — Barney Cheng
Co-presented with Community Partners: Okaeri & JANM
Seattle JACL leader Bill Tashima explains how he chose to live openly as a gay man.
Lesbian activist Desiree Thompson recounts growing up in Hawai’i and how she came to accept her sexuality.
Gary, a former representative of an ex-gay ministry, explains how he became part of the LGBTQ+ community and returned to the Japanese American community.
Icon George Takei shares about his childhood crushes and the challenges of navigating his gay identity in Hollywood.
At age 16, activist June met the love of her life: another student who was her opposite. June chronicles her career in social activism and her work bridging communities.
Vocalist Melvin explains how he learned the importance of not rushing through the pain of grieving. He also shares his journey of reconciling his faith with his gay identity.
Mia explains making the momentous decision to transition so she can live authentically as her true self.
Artist and community member Roy shares about the formation of A/PLG, the first Asian queer organization in Los Angeles.
The Japanese American community has not always broadly welcomed gay, transgender, and queer Nikkei people. It took courage for LGBTQ+ Nikkei to live openly and with integrity in decades past. Hear from four LGBTQ+ Japanese Americans who are forerunners of making Nikkei communities more accepting: Melvin Fujikawa, Gary Hayashi, Bill Tashima, and Mia Yamamoto.