Kansha History: Nikkei Farm History is a fiscally-sponsored project of California Black Media, a registered 501(c) (3) non-profit organization: Tax ID # 46-2808252.
“Uncovering lost stories, families finding their heritage, reconnecting with the land – Kansha History is building on traditions and creating a sustainable future. I love it!”
— Miyoka Oshima, President of Vesper Society, Advisory Committee
“I’m hoping Kansha History will uncover the forgotten stories of how Japanese American families applied their hearts, sweat, and shovels to make California an agricultural powerhouse.
— Jon Funabiki, Emeritus Professor of Journalism at San Francisco State University, Advisory Committee
— Glenn Tanaka, Farmer and Owner of Tanaka Farms, Advisory Committee
— Jere Takahashi, retired Lecturer in Ethnic Studies at UC Berkeley, Author of Nisei/Sansei, Advisory Committee
— John Kawamura, Director of HealthCare Economics, UnitedHealth Group, Advisory Committee
Amanda Mei Kim was raised on a tenant farm in Saticoy, CA. Her Japanese- and Korean American ancestors farmed and sold produce in California for over 100 years. She has a BA in American Studies from Brown University and has worked on two oral history projects. She is also an essayist and the executive director of California Foodshed Funders.
— Amanda Mei Kim, Lead Researcher & Project Director
Stephanie Cheung, a minimalist experience designer with over a decade of experience from soft goods to digital products. She enjoys working for a good cause.
— Stephanie Cheung, Experience Designer
I care about this project because family history is important to me. Uncovering lost legacies so descendants can reconnect with their roots is a dream come true!”
— Audrey Lynn Quach, Research Assistant