Abstract:

"From the remarks of prominent politicians to sambo dolls and 'darkie' toothpaste, the perception of most Americans is that the Japanese view African Americans and other ethnic minorities as inferior. These negative perceptions have led to anger and frustration among African Americans in the U.S. Ironically, despite the perception, some African Americans have made Japan their home and profess to find Japanese culture overall more tolerant than American culture. How can they find a home in Japan? What is it about Japanese culture that can generate such enthusiasm and passion? What are the internal conflicts African Americans must experience living in Japan? This program examines the complex lives of African Americans living in Japan and is the culmination of two years of research, development and production in Japan and the US. "