Honoring History: Our Hito Hata Screening & Discussion

Official poster for Hito Hata: Raise the Banner, a landmark 1980 film that tells the powerful story of Japanese American immigrants and their fight for belonging.

On March 9, our community gathered at the Japanese American Museum of San Jose for a special screening of Hito Hata: Raise the Banner. This landmark 1980 film, produced by Visual Communications, tells the powerful story of Japanese American immigrants, capturing their struggles, resilience, and pursuit of the American dream.

About Hito Hata: Raise the Banner

Directed by Robert A. Nakamura and Duane Kubo, Hito Hata was one of the first feature films created by and for the Asian American community. It follows Oda, an elderly Japanese immigrant, as he reflects on his life in America—from working on the railroads to facing displacement in Little Tokyo. Through his journey, the film highlights the struggles and contributions of early Issei and Nisei generations, tackling themes of racism, resilience, and identity.

Produced by Visual Communications, the nation’s first Asian American media organization, Hito Hata was a groundbreaking effort in preserving and sharing Japanese American history. At a time when AAPI stories were largely overlooked in mainstream media, the film became a powerful tool for cultural preservation and representation. While it remains lesser-known due to limited distribution, it is recognized as a significant work in Asian American cinema.

Screening & Discussion

Following the film, attendees participated in a lively discussion, reflecting on its historical significance and the ongoing need to preserve and uplift AAPI stories. Panelists shared insights into the challenges of Asian American representation in media, the importance of intergenerational storytelling, and how films like Hito Hata provide a window into forgotten histories.

The event sparked deep conversations, bringing together film enthusiasts, historians, and community advocates. Guests left with a renewed appreciation for the role of storytelling in preserving cultural memory and strengthening our collective identity.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us for this powerful evening! We look forward to hosting more events that celebrate AAPI heritage and amplify our voices. Stay connected for updates on upcoming screenings and discussions.