Contest Inspiration

"Grandfather’s Journey" by Allen Say

Grandfather's Journey is about a young man who immigrates to the U.S. seeking for opportunities. The story depicted him wandering through cities, deserts, and farms throughout the vast country. Eventually, he returned home to Japan to marry his childhood sweetheart. They moved back to the U.S. and settled in San Francisco, where they had a daughter. Once she was of age, the family moved back to Japan, where the daughter started her own family and had a son. The grandson, who is the author of this book, recounts his grandfather's experiences living in both countries. He grew up in Japan hearing all about how his grandfather spent his youth in the U.S., developing a connection to both countries and eventually visiting the U.S. when he became an adult. Both the U.S. and Japan felt like his home, coinciding with his cultural identity.

This book and my experience of making the family documentary inspired me to launch this project-based community contest. I believe it's a great way to retell individual family's immigration stories, share with the community, and value our cultural heritage.