Nanaimo Museum Addresses Social Justice & Celebrates Japanese Canadian Culture

A new exhibit at the Nanaimo Museum is marking the 30 years since the Canadian governments official apology to Japanese Canadians following a 10-year fight for redress.
 
Some 22,000 Japanese Canadians were forced to leave their homes on BC’s coast during World War II. Many were transported to internment camps while the government sold their homes, businesses and belongings.
 
Their struggle to gain an apology and compensation from Canada is celebrated in A Call for Justice: Fighting for Japanese Redress (1977-1988), a traveling exhibit from Burnaby’s Nikkei National Museum.
 
A Call for Justice will be exploring human rights and the determination of the Japanese Canadian community until September 3.
 
“This story is especially relevant on the coast,” says Aimee Greenaway, curator at the Nanaimo Museum. “Friends and neighbours were forced out of the community with little warning.”
 
The exhibit examines the ten-year fight for redress using historic photographs, artifacts, poetry, personal statements, art and video.
 
The Nanaimo Museum has also partnered with the Central Vancouver Island Japanese-Canadian Society to lead workshops on traditional Japanese practices.
 
The sessions are part of ‘Crafternoons’, a new summer program for adults. On certain Saturdays until the end of August, Crafternoon workshops will engage participants in creative, hands-on activities within the museum.
 
Kim Cowley-Adam will teach Saori handweaving on June 9th from 1 - 4pm, a technique that embraces individualism and mistakes.
 
Crafternoons will also feature practices from other cultures. On July 7th, Chepximiya Siyam, Chief Janice George and Skwetsimeltxw Buddy Joseph will lead a full-day session on Coast Salish weaving. From Squamish Nation, George and Joseph have been teaching the art of Coast Salish weaving for over 10 years. Participants will create their own weaving, using a variety of techniques, textures and colours.
 
The historic Best Western Dorchester Hotel is a great accommodation option if you’re planning to visit this fascinating exhibition. Located right downtown near bustling harbour, this boutique-style property offers excellent views, outstanding service, immaculate rooms and suites and convenient access to all of Nanaimo’s attractions.