“While it is important to win, it’s even more important to remain undefeated no matter what happens.” – Daisaku Ikeda
CORE CONCEPT
Living with freedom and happiness by overcoming the obstacles of racial and socio economic oppression in a post war world.
ACCESS
Keiko Daniels and Hatsuko, live in Alameda. It would be easy to interview them in both their homes. There is also a Buddhist community center in Oakland that will be a lovely balance for location.
STORY
This is a story of two women from Japan. They married American soldiers, immigrated to America where they became citizens, learned English, got a drivers licenses, and raised families. Post war America was not a time that was too kind to Japanese immigrants. They both overcame a lot of social oppression.
Now they are vibrant women who lead very full lives, they both participate in a chorus called "Sounds of Unity Chorus" with a very diverse group of singers in Oakland,CA.
WHO
Hatsuko and Keiko Daniels. They are the main people that I will interview, if their husbands and or children are around, I will ask their perspective too. I will also try to schedule a time to record their Choir practice. They usually hold the rehearsals at the Oakland Community Center on 38th and Opal.
WHERE
Their personal homes in Alameda, and The SGI-USA community center on 38th st and Opal in Oakland.
WHAT
Pioneer is defined as a person who is among the first to explore or settle a new country or area. These Japanese women are definitely "Pioneers" of a new area of a more socially conscious America.
WHEN
This film explores the time span from the 1950's to present day. I will discuss America's change in view of Japanese Americans.
AUDIENCE
This film is for youth. To show the generation that lived through tougher times than we ever knew. This is to show who paved the way for people who are ignorant of the clear path ahead of them. We need to document the valuable experience of our elders so that we all can learn from their lives, and their struggles.
HOW
I think I will approach a very relaxed approach where we interview the subjects in a conversation. I want to take two cameras from the front, and on from the side. Have a cup of tea, and ask a series of questions and just let them tell their stories.
WHY
History repeats itself. Unless we learn from both the mistakes and victories of our elders, we will loose and never develop. These women also have an indomitable spirit. To learn how they have overcome obstacles is very inspiring.
