BEYOND the FENCE, a memoir reading by Mieko Anne Walden

Sunday, June 2, 2024

1:30pm-3:30pm

For many years, Mieko has been writing about her experiences of being adopted from an Okinawan orphanage as a child by an American family who eventually brought her to the U.S. when she was eight. Her writings include nostalgic memories of Okinawa of the 1960s, sad memories of parting with a grandmother, confused memories of being adopted by an American family that provided material comfort but forced her to give up all of her connections to Okinawa, and unspeakable memories of abuse by the people she should have trusted the most.

Mieko’s first reading at J-Sei was in October 2022. Because of the overwhelming interest in hearing more stories, Mieko will be sharing additional excerpts from her memoir-in-progress about her childhood in Okinawa and adapting to her life as an adoptee in the U.S.!

Using writing as a tool to share her personal story, Mieko has discovered courage, healing, and support. We invite you to join us as she shares her deeply personal and moving story.

Everyone is welcome to attend. Light refreshments will be provided. Please RSVP to jill@j-sei.org with “Memoir 6/2” in the subject line.