Meet Roxanne
What does AAPI Heritage Month mean to you?
To me, AAPI heritage month is a time to reflect on my identity and celebrate the traditions of our diverse community.
How has your heritage shaped the person you are today?
I am a 4th generation Japanese American. I have never been to Japan and I don’t speak Japanese. Growing up I learned of my family’s history and experiences through the stories of my grandparents’ and parents’ youth. They often told me of their times assimilating to American culture, maintaining their own culture, and even surviving U.S. concentration camps during World War II. These stories have led me to appreciate my own life and inspired me to maintain my family traditions by participating in cultural events such as Mochi-tsuki, Aki Matsuri, Nikkei Matsuri and dancing in the Japanese Obon festival. Participating in these events have led me to proudly embrace my identity as a Japanese American.