The Okinawa Association of America (OAA) recently gathered approximately 430 attendees at the Carson Community Center in Carson for its annual Fresh Year’s celebration. The event served as both a cultural showcase and a formal transition of leadership for the organization.
Cultural Preservation and Performance
The program opened with Kaimaku, featuring classical Okinawan music and dance. Performances included “Akanma Bushi,” “Shura Bushi,” and “Medetai Bushi,” delivered by the Ryukyu Koten Afuso Ryu Ongaku Kenkyu Choichi Kai Los Angeles Shibu and the Ryukyu Sokyoku Koyokai Los Angeles shibu.
The festivities continued with a diverse array of traditional arts, including a lion dance by Shishigumi Los Angeles and original choreography titled “Higashikuma Udui.” Martial arts were also highlighted through demonstrations by USC Kendo and 9th-dan hanshi Tsukasa Gushi in Uechi-Ryu Karate-Do and Ryuko Tsuru Karate Kobudo.
Leadership Transition and Community Recognition
A central component of the gathering was the installation of the 2026 officers, board members, and chairpersons. This process was led by Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi following a presidential message from Victoria Nishiuchi.
The organization also recognized key contributions to its infrastructure. President Nishiuchi and Assemblymember Muratsuchi presented a special award to architect Skyler Kogachi for his professional work on the renovation of the OAA Center located in Gardena.
Diplomatic presence was noted with a greeting from Consul Tomoyuki Yamagata on behalf of the Consulate General of Japan in Los Angeles. Yamagata also participated in the kagami-biraki, a traditional sake barrel ceremony, alongside other community and business leaders.
Commemoration and Celebration
The event balanced celebration with reflection, including a “Year in Review” video and a moment of silence for members who have passed away. Traditional customs were further observed as attendees born in the Year of the Horse were invited to the stage for a special toast.
The evening concluded with a lively performance by Ryukyukoku Matsuri Daiko Los Angeles Branch and a collective “Kachaashii/Atchamee” dance. Janet Yamaguchi won the event’s grand prize, a $1,000 cash donation provided by Uyehara Travel.
Future Outlook
With the installation of the 2026 board and various chairpersons, the OAA may now move toward implementing new goals for the coming year. The newly appointed leaders across departments—including culture, history, and scholarship—could introduce updated programming for the community.
the completion of the OAA Center renovation in Gardena is likely to provide a modernized hub for the association’s activities. This upgraded facility may facilitate expanded efforts in preserving the Uchinaaguchi language and supporting Young Okinawans of Southern California.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who presided over the installation of the 2026 OAA officers?
Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi, who grew up on U.S. Military bases in Okinawa, installed the 2026 officers, board members, and chairpersons.
What was the purpose of the presentation to Skyler Kogachi?
Architect Skyler Kogachi was recognized for his work on the renovation of the OAA Center in Gardena.
What was the grand prize of the event drawing?
The grand prize was $1,000 in cash, which was donated by Uyehara Travel and won by Janet Yamaguchi.
How important is the preservation of traditional arts like the sanshin and koto in maintaining community ties for the Okinawan diaspora?
