This online seminar centers on films that represent historically marginalized communities in Japan: LGBTQIA+ (Funeral Parade of Roses, 1969), Okinawans (Untama giru, 1989), Zainichi Koreans (Chong, 2000), and Japanese-Brazilians (Saudade, 2011). The instructor will provide historical background on each group and information on the production and reception of the film before segueing to a focused discussion wherein participants will offer their own reflections and analysis. In so doing, we will consider such questions as: How do these films challenge perceptions of Japan’s supposed homogeneity and/or critique its history of colonialism? How are members of these communities represented in the films? What is their relationship with Japanese mainstream society and how do they negotiate systems of oppression and discrimination? Through textual analysis and discussion, this program seeks to expose participants to the diversity of Japanese cinematic expression and encourages them to interrogate common stereotypes regarding what constitutes Japanese culture.
Program Leader
Nathaniel Heneghan is an independent scholar, poet, playwright, and punk rock drummer based in Seattle, WA. He received his PhD from the University of Southern California, and his research examines the evolution of Zainichi Korean representation in literature and film from the colonial period to present. His current project explores notions of confession and “coming out” in recent Zainichi cultural production.
Dates and Time
Wednesday, April 9, 2025, 4 to 6 PM (Pacific Time)
Wednesday, April 23, 2025, 4 to 6 PM (Pacific Time)
Wednesday, May 7, 2025, 4 to 6 PM (Pacific Time)
Wednesday, May 21, 2025, 4 to 6 PM (Pacific Time)
This program will take place on Zoom.
Program Expectations
Participants are expected to view the film and read any supplementary materials (links to watch the movies, essays, interviews, etc.) prior to each class. All materials will be provided by the instructor.
Program Benefits
- Access to online resources.
- Free WA OSPI clock hours.
- Completion stipend for the purchase of additional classroom resources.
Application
This program is free and open to K-12 teachers of all grades and subjects. Space is limited. To apply, please follow this link. For any questions, just send us an email at earc@uw.edu.
This program is sponsored by the East Asia Resource Center at the University of Washington and funded by a Freeman Foundation grant in support of the National Consortium for Teaching about Asia (NCTA).