Okaeri Connects!
Okaeri Connects! English is for LGBTQ+ Nikkei/Japanese folks to find each other and create affirming spaces by sharing our personal experiences and stories. We believe that building relationships, being seen, and connecting ourselves within our big Nikkei world can improve the quality of our lives.
We started Okaeri Connects! a monthly virtual support group back in 2020, as a way to continue fostering spaces for Nikkei LGBTQ+ individuals. Available in both English & 日本語, we have sessions dedicated to LGBTQ+ community as well as Parents/Allies. Make sure to register for 2024 sessions below!
Okaeri Connects! English is for LGBTQ+ Nikkei/Japanese folks to find each other and create affirming spaces by sharing our personal experiences and stories. We believe that building relationships, being seen, and connecting ourselves within our big Nikkei world can improve the quality of our lives.
We meet online every second Sunday of the month from 4-5:30PM PT/ 5PM MT / 6PM CT / 7PM ET. Join us!
To support this monthly program, visit our donation link here. Please make sure to add “Okaeri” in the Notes during check out. Thank you!
December Parents & Caregivers Session (English)
12/1 (Sunday) 2:00-4:30 PM PT
Guest Speaker: Dr. Huong Diep
Join our Parents & Caregivers session to learn more about how to compassionately communicate with and support your LGBTQ+ loved ones. As we enter the holiday season, we hope this workshop can open up more connection amongst your families.
Why attend Okaeri Connects? Check out the testimonials from our attendees:
“Okaeri Connects is the place where I keep in touch with old friends and make new friends. it’s where I can continue to learn something new about race and ethnicity, and sexuality with people whom I feel comfortable with.” —Asako Hanafusa
“It can be hard to build connections in our day to day living but the people in okaeri connects are kind, authentic and welcome you to celebrate all parts of who you are!” —Jamie Yabuno
“I was surprised by how quickly I felt at home in Okaeri Connects... Everyone was learning more about Japanese and queer culture and heritage. everyone immediately welcomed and accepted me.” —Xander
LGBTQ+を自認（またはそうかもしれない）人たちの集まり. 北米に住む日系LGBTQ+の仲間と繋がりたい、LGBTQ+のことをもっと知りたい、周りに相談できる人がいない、差別のない社会を作りたい。。。様々な思いを持つ人たちと、お互いに支え合う環境を一緒に作りませんか？月一回集まって日本語によるコミュニティーを作りましょう。
*１０月当事者グループは休みます。
毎月のプログラムをサポートするには、こちらの寄付リンクを訪問してください。チェックアウト時に備考欄に「Okaeri」と記入してください。ご支援いただきありがとうございます。
親・アライ日本語ワークショップ：LGBTQ+ 101
１２月８日 （日曜日）12PM PT / 3PM ET
ゲストスピーカー：矢部文
悪気なく使った言葉が、LGBTQ+の人たちとその家族をモヤモヤさせていることがあります。
その言葉の根底に隠れている考えとは？ LGBTQ+でない人たちにとって、LGBTQ+当事者の問題とは本当に無縁？
アライに出来ることって何？
この無料オンライン・ワークショップでは、実例をとおしてLGBTQ+でない私たち（親、家族、同僚、友達、アライ）が知っておきたいことを話し合っていきます。どなたでもぜひ、気軽に参加下さい！
矢部 文（やべ・あや）
「オカエリ・コネクツ！」共同ファシリテーター。レズビアンの娘をもつ母親の立場から、日本人を含むアジア系ＬＧＢＴＱ＋当事者とその家族を可視化し、誰もが生きやすい社会づくりを目指して活動中。ニューヨーク在住。