Wendy Matsumura, "Waiting for the Cool Moon: Anti-Imperialist Struggles in the Heart of Japan's Empire" (Duke UP, 2024)
New Books in East Asian Studies
Okinawan Women's Roles in Colonial History
Exploring the overlooked roles of Okinawan women as workers, activists, and blue clerks within Japan's empire, compared to Korean and Budaku women workers, and discussing the challenges in forming solidarity amidst exploitation by colonial policies. Reflecting on the significance of documenting the labor and activism of Okinawan women in anti-imperialist and feminist frameworks, while emphasizing the importance of understanding collective efforts beyond written records. Detailing the research process for the book, including examining farm household survey ledgers from pre-war Okinawa and discussing the struggles of ordinary people during times of imperialism and fascism, aiming to avoid reproducing dehumanizing narratives and keeping the memories of lesser-known individuals alive.
