2003 President Message
By Chogi Higa
First and foremost, I would like to thank everyone for making this past year such an incredible success. All of you have made my first year as OAA President a very valuable experience. After 40 years of membership in this organization, serving most of it as a board member, I was honored that you had chosen me to take the leadership role.
During the next presidential term, I would like to continue fostering the growth of the OAA by expanding our activities within our organization, as well as extending and promoting the Okinawan arts to the greater society.
I would like to proceed in cultivating a bridge to our native islands, while expanding our dialogue with our heritage. I envision the OAA participating in more international exchanges of ideas and creativity pertaining to the Okinawan people and culture.
After living in the shadows of mainland Japan, there is now a growing interest in the Okinawan experience. Doctors and scientists have for many years researched the reason for Okinawan longevity. Culture enthusiasts have marveled at the fascinating performing arts of the islands, while historians have been tracing the migration of its people to numerous countries internationally.
In this time of renewed awakening, the OAA is playing a vital role as a source for historical knowledge. This past year, three professors of the University of the Ryukyus and seventeen high school teachers visited the OAA Center to research Okinawan immigrants on the west coast of the United States. We were more than welcome to host a research and interview session for them during their scholarly visit to the US. The History Committee of the OAA has also began their intensive process to research, document, and publish another book on Okinawans in the US.
In closing, I would like to extend a warm welcome to our growing membership of young Okinawans. It is for your future that we continue to strive for the betterment of our organization and the community. Thank you all for supporting this beautiful organization, and may you continue celebrating the Okinawan culture. Hi sai, gusuyo chuu-wuganabira kutu-shin wii-soogwachi nnkeeti yugafuu-tushi Nayuru gutu unigee sooyabiin.
Good day to all. I pray that this year will be very fruitful and prosperous for everyone.
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