Nankuru Naisa
If you ask most people in Okinawa today the meaning of the Uchinaaguchi phrase nankuru naisa, you will most likely hear the Japanese phrase nantoka naru, which roughly translates to “somehow, something will become of it.” For many, nankuru naisa represents the easy-going, happy go-lucky islander lifestyle that has come to dominate depictions of Loochoo and its people. However, a deeper examination of the phrase, its original context, and the history of Shimanchu shifts the meaning of nankuru naisa from an expression of passive resignation, to one of deep conviction and fortitude to stand up and persevere against daunting or even impossible odds. For our very first virtual summit, we will hear stories of those who have chosen to take a stand in what they believe in and challenge our worldwide participants to find empowerment and hope in our culture and identity.
LooChoo Identity Summit 