STEVESTON JAPANESE CANADIAN INTERNMENT SURVIVORS REUNION.

As a part the 75th Anniversary of the Steveston Salmon Festival (SFEST) this project would highlight an important part of the history of Steveston – the interment of the Japanese Canadian community and the Japanese Canadian Community’s return to Steveston. The event is tentatively planned for the week of June 25th, 2022. The final date is to be decided upon in discussion with the larger SFEST Committee. The purpose of the Japanese Canadian Survivors of the Internment Reunion is to provide social contact, camaraderie and connectivity for survivors and other seniors to reduce isolation and enhance social and mental wellness. The event through its connection with the SFEST will also include opportunity for the survivors to connect with the post internment generation and other members of the community.

The reunion will include Japanese Canadian Cultural exhibits and demonstrations such as Ikebana and Kendo, Judo and Karate. Entertainment will be provided including musical presentations and informational speakers. There will also be a meal provided and time allowing survivors to interact with each other. A record of the event will be kept through the use of a videographer and photographer.

The event will include interviews with the survivors and will also involve other seniors within the community and promote inter-generational events where both seniors, survivors and post internment generation can share experiences. We will be encouraging the senior survivors to bring artifacts and photos depicting their internment years and post internment years. These inter-generational activities will provide opportunities for the younger Japanese Canadians to directly experience history through the stories and experiences of the survivors. Other members of the community will be invited as the Survivors did make many connections and friendships with the families and other groups outside the Japanese Canadian Community in Steveston.

• Listing ID: 1545
• Primary Applicant: Steveston Community Society
• Joint Applicant(s): Steveston Buddhist Temple
• Event or Completion Date: Saturday, September 10, 2022
• Approved Amount: $20,000
• Location: Richmond, BC