Discover Japan’s Indigenous Ainu Culture in a Special Talk & Sharing Session!

Join us for Living Archives for Cultural Resilience and Resistance, a unique event that delves into the rich heritage of Japan’s Indigenous Ainu community and highlights the importance of preserving cultural identities.

In 2019, Japan passed a landmark law formally recognizing the Ainu as the Indigenous People of Japan. This historic achievement was the result of decades of advocacy by the Ainu community. Following the enactment of this law, the national government established the UPOPOY National Ainu Museum & Park in Hokkaido in 2020. 

The session begins with Ms. Mio Yachita, a researcher and curatorial fellow at the National Ainu Museum, who will provide an introduction to the cultural policy of the Ainu people and the establishment of the UPOPOY National Ainu Museum & Park in Hokkaido. This will be followed by a talk by Ms. Ritsuko Sasamura, a cultural specialist from UPOPOY, who will explore Ainu beliefs, their connection to Kamuy (spiritual beings), and the transmission of cultural practices. Closing the event, Wen Di Sia from Gerimis Art will share insights into documenting the arts and culture of Malaysia’s Mah Meri and Semai communities, drawing parallels between efforts to preserve Indigenous traditions in Japan and Malaysia.

Living Archives for Cultural Resilience and Resistance ~ Talk & Sharing Session about Japan’s Indigenous People Ainu

Date & Time: 4 December, 2024 (Wed), 8:00pm
Venue: Five Arts Centre, GMBB
Admission/Bookings: FREE admission. Prior booking is required by registering at https://forms.gle/GLC9yGprJ7GziAK87