Memorial rededicated as part of Nikkei celebration

Photo courtesy of Murase Associates

Street Roots vendor joins memorial with poetry

The Japanese American Historial Plaza, with its solemn pillars and rolling landscape, is an award-winning monument to our past, a place of respite and remembrance, and a place to both acknowledge and educate.

As part of the Oregon Nikkei Endowment 20th anniversary this year, ONE is hosting a rededication of the Japanese American Historical Plaza in Tom McCall Waterfront Park this Friday. The Plaza was originally dedicated in August 1990 to remember the hardships of Japanese immigrants during World War II and honor the bravery of the Japanese community. The poetry of Lawson Inada, among others — including Street Roots vendor Leo Rhodes — will be read as part of the ceremony.

Beginning at 5 p.m. at the Plaza, the celebration will include special guests Justice Michael Gillette of the Oregon Supreme Court; Lawson Inada, Oregon Poet Laureate 2006-2010; the Minidoka Swing Band; Portland Taiko, and many others.

A special collaborative project between Portland poet and writer Kaia Sand, Sisters of the Road, Street Roots, Transition Projects, Inc. and Oregon Nikkei Endowment will be part of this event.

The celebration then continues at the Bill Naito Legacy Fountain, just steps away from the Plaza, with a musical performance by The Slants. Crafts, food and beer will be on hand celebrate this award-winning landmark.

Tickets can be purchased at www.oregonnikkei.org.

Posted by Joanne Zuhl