Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan --
Marine
Corps Community Services, Okinawa hosted a traditional Japanese clothing class
for service members and their families June 19 at the
Marine and Family Programs building on Camp Foster, Okinawa.
The
class taught attendees how to wear a yukata, a traditional Japanese garment
that is worn during summer months, according to Yuko Murayoshi, instructor of
the class and class coordinator with MCCS, Okinawa. The garment is made of a thin,
light material to help stave off the heat and humidity of Japanese summers.
Being
able to physically dress in traditional Japanese attire allows service members
to feel as though they are truly involved in the community and culture,
according to Cmdr. Michael P. Venable, an aerospace physiologist with health
services support element, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary
Force.
Murayoshi
began the class explaining the purposes of different clothing articles traditionally
worn in Japan during the summer months. These garments included yukatas, sashes,
broad garments called obis, and wooden sandals called getas.
“Understanding
and (gaining) insight into the Japanese culture helps (service members and
their families in Okinawa) understand the differences between the American and
Japanese culture,” said Murayoshi. “It improves their experience here because
they are able to understand why (Okinawa residents) conduct themselves in the
way they do. There is always a language barrier, so a lot of people may be reluctant
to get out and try things. But when they get out and get to know the culture
and take part in classes and events, they feel a little bit more comfortable to
be involved in the community and build positive relationships.”
Once
Murayoshi explained traditions and purposes of the clothing, she demonstrated
the steps of donning each garment.
“These
classes not only teach them, but give special (knowledge and experience) to
take back with them to introduce Japanese culture at home,” said Murayoshi.
After
the demonstration, the attendees gathered up the colorful apparel of their
choice and stood in a semi-circle as Murayoshi assisted them in dressing in the
traditional wear.
“A lot of
people come to (Okinawa) and feel like outsiders,” [JLB2] said Venable. “They feel like they won’t know their way
around or won’t know how to (communicate), but if you don’t go out and (immerse
yourself in cultural experiences), then you’ll be locked into this base
environment and when you leave, it will be like you never went to Okinawa at
all. Being culturally aware and involved helps you feel more at home and more
connected and allow you to take a little piece of Okinawa home with you.” [JLB3]
When
all the attendees were properly dressed, Murayoshi gathered all the attendees
to pose for photos with their families.
“It’s about
appreciation,” said Murayoshi. “Your willingness to learn and exchange a word
in Japanese is really fulfilling. It speaks to (Okinawa residents) that we’re
not the only ones that are expected to learn (different cultures). They enjoy seeing
(service members) bow and have fun showing respect for our culture. That
appreciation and involvement bridges the two cultures and communities and it
brings (service members and Okinawa residents) closer.”