‘Finding Your Japanese American Roots’ at J-Sei

EMERYVILLE — Ready to explore your family history? Learn from genealogist Linda Harms Okazaki on hw to get started on researching your Japanese ancestry on Thursday, Oct. 27, from 6 to 9 p.m. at J-Sei, 1285 66th St. in Emeryville.

Linda Harms Okazaki

Discover how to access records from early immigration to the U.S., World War II incarceration, post-war resettlement, repatriation and redress. Then learn how to navigate research sources in Japan, from finding your koseki to visiting with realtives, temples and cemeteries to connect you with your family roots.

Workshop is suitable for beginners and more experienced researchers. The cost is $30 per person.

Okazaki is a budding genealogist, avid gardener, enthusiastic cook, empty-nester, energetic traveler and gaijin girl. Documenting Japanese American family history is her current feverish interest.

“If you have ever had an inkling to research your family’s documented story, it is essential to attend Linda Harms Okazaki’s astonishing genealogy workshop for Nikkei and take copious notes,” said artist/writer/historian Patricia Wakida. “You will be guided by an expert in navigating resources to help locate the essential clues necessary for unlocking Japanese American genealogy. Okazaki can take you step by step, lighting a path into the past.”

For reservations or more information, contact Jill Shiraki at (510) 654-4000 or jill@j-sei.org. Come early, bring your own dinner or pick up nearby, and enjoy the company of other attendees. Limited on-site and ample street parking is available in the evenings and on weekends.