Hawaii, Okinawan, Okinawan diaspora, Okinawans in Hawaii, Okinawan Americans, Uchinanchu in Hawaii, Uchinanchu, Uchinaanchu 

"With this book, we celebrate 120 years of Okinawans in Hawaii. The title of this book is a fusion combining the Hawaiian word for 'thanks' and the Okinawan word for 'sharing.' 'Mahalo' expresses respectful gratitude to reflect Hawaii, the place we call home, while we honor our Okinawan roots with the word 'ayakari' in the spirit of sharing. This project was a means of 'ongaeshi,' repaying a debt of gratitude, by honoring the memories of those who came before us. It was also a means of inviting community engagement to tell the stories of the Okinawan experience in Hawaii. We feel that everyone has a story to tell; when people tell their own stories and speak for themselves, they are empowered. Therefore, it should be told in a manner that best suits the person"--From preface.

Includes illustrations.