5/04: Lecture: Spirituality and Lunar events in Okinawa

On May 4 (Saturday), 4 p.m. Pacific, the Okinawa Association of America (OAA)’s Young Okinawans of Southern California (YOSC) will host “Ryūkyūan Spirituality and Lunar Events in the Spring” online via Zoom and in-person at the OAA Center in Gardena. Please register here: tinyurl.com/yosc-lunar-24, (310) 532-1929.

Lecturer Yukiko Akamine (University of the Ryukyus, Okinawa International University, Okinawa University) will be joining the event online from Okinawa. Her in-depth presentation will include introductions to Okinawan spirituality, ancestor worship, and the Lunar calendar with a focus on important springtime traditions.

In-person attendees will have a chance to taste chinbin, a traditional crepe-like dessert that is traditionally served on Yukka nu Hii (during which dragon boat races are held and chinbin is served at the family altar to pray for the health of children). (Subject to change)

The OAA Center is located at 16500 S. Western Ave., Gardena 90247. On-site parking is accessible behind the Western Avenue buildings off 165th Place. The event will be hosted in the Yamauchi Building (south side of the lot). For online participants, the Zoom link will be emailed on the day of (please check the spam/promotions folder).

Awarded as one of 2023’s California Nonprofits of the Year, the Okinawa Association of America, Inc. (OAA) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that is dedicated to preserving and promoting Okinawan culture. Formed by first generation Okinawan immigrants (issei), the OAA has grown into a multi-generational organization that hosts numerous events throughout the year including cultural lectures, performances, social gatherings, and senior-focused activities. 2024 marks the organization’s 115th anniversary as well as the 25th anniversary of the OAA Center in Gardena.