From Race to Ethnicity: Interpreting Japanese American Experiences in Hawai‘i

The book "From Race to Ethnicity: The Transition of Japanese Americans in Hawai'i" discusses the historical and contemporary experiences of Hawaiis Japanese Americans, analyzing how they have transitioned from a highly racialized minority to one of the most politically and socioeconomically powerful ethnic groups in the islands. It explores the differential functioning of race and ethnicity over time, highlighting how race worked against Japanese Americans while ethnicity worked in their favor as they gained greater political and economic power. However, the book also notes that ethnicity has continued to work against Native Hawaiians, Filipino Americans, and other minorities, contributing to ethnic inequality in Hawai'i.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 29 February 2024
Publisher: University of Hawai'i Press

This groundbreaking book is a significant contribution to the field of ethnic studies, providing a comprehensive and nuanced exploration of the historical and contemporary experiences of Hawaiis Japanese Americans. Given that race played a central role in shaping social relations in Hawai'i, and later ethnicity emerged in the 1970s, the book offers a multi-perspective analysis of these experiences, considering both racial and ethnic dimensions. The transition from race to ethnicity is intricately documented, showcasing how Japanese Americans, initially marginalized as racialized immigrant laborers, have evolved into one of the most politically and socioeconomically influential ethnic groups in the islands.

To facilitate this understanding, the author has crafted a comprehensive racial history of Japanese Americans, tracing their early struggles against oppressive working and living conditions on the sugar plantations to labor organizing and the rise to power of the Democratic Party after World War II. The book then delves into how Japanese Americans have maintained their political influence into the twenty-first century, examining the recent advocacy and activism of individual yonsei (fourth-generation Japanese Americans) who work on behalf of ethnic communities other than their own.

From Race to Ethnicity is particularly relevant in the current scholarly discourse surrounding the relative analytical significance of race and ethnicity. The book's novel analysis offers a compelling account of how race operated against Japanese Americans and other non-Haoles (Whites) by restricting their full and equal participation in society. However, by the 1970s, ethnicity began to work in their favor, granting them greater political and economic power. It is important to note, however, that ethnicity has continued to pose challenges for Native Hawaiians and Filipino Americans.

In conclusion, this groundbreaking book is a vital addition to the field of ethnic studies, offering a rich and nuanced exploration of the historical and contemporary experiences of Hawaiis Japanese Americans. Through its multi-perspective analysis, it sheds light on the complex dynamics of race and ethnicity, illuminating how they have shaped the lives and experiences of this community. By examining the transition from race to ethnicity and the ongoing challenges faced by different ethnic groups, From Race to Ethnicity provides valuable insights into the broader sociological and political landscape of Hawai'i and beyond.

Weight: 388g
Dimension: 140 x 216 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780824897871