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When I was in the 4th grade, I wrote in my autobiography that I wanted to be a writer when I grew up. But my vision of a writer was someone who stayed home full time and made a living writing books. Or at least someone who got paid for writing. Years ago, I wrote a short story and someone close to me told me after reading it that I must have a lot of time on my hands.
But in 1995, I met Tony. Someone I had long-admired as a poet, writer and activist from reading his writings in The Rafu Shimpo, Tony encouraged me to write. When I complained about some injustice or another, he would say, "Baby, you should write about it." But I wasn't a writer, I insisted. But Tony can be very persuasive. I tentatively wrote my first article drawing similarities between the Thai Garment Workers who were enslaved in El Monte, and Seabrook Farms where my grandparents worked after WW2. To my surprise, the Rafu published the article. Tony bought 10 copies for me.
Tony also read my short story (Mitsugi's Christmas) and suggested that I submit it to the Rafu for their Holiday Issue. I did so hesitantly, but was thrilled when Naomi Hirahara, then English Editor called to tell me that she liked my story. I dedicated the story to my grandfathers Keiichi, who I never met, and Masashi, who I wish I could remember. Shortly after I joined the Through the Fire column at the Rafu, and have been writing a quarterly column ever since. Even though my pay is meager, only $25 per article, I found that I have a lot to say. I usually write to educate about an issue, or plug some event or organization that I'm involved in.
Years later, I am still writing. I may not write this column forever, but until we live in a world of peace, free from racism and oppression, I will always have something to write about.
Link to articles
"101 Ways to Tell if You're Japanese American" with Tony Osumi, 3/23/96
"More Ways to Tell if You're JA " with Tony Osumi, 5/3/96
Short story
Mitsugi's Christmas
All articles and stories are copyrighted.
Jenni/Tony's Homepage
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