Jon Osaki

Jon Osaki is an award-winning filmmaker who has directed and produced promotional, educational, narrative, and documentary films. His initial interest in film grew from his desire to share the stories of the Japanese Community Youth Council, where he has served as Executive Director since 1996. Over the past few years, he has had films screened at film festivals and community events across the country. As a filmmaker, Jon views this genre as the next step in his lifelong pursuit of social justice and equity.

As a long-time child and youth development advocate, Jon believes in using film to bring stories and history to life for younger generations. He is motivated to inspire the next generation of storytellers to keep vital chapters of this country's history alive and relevant for the leaders of tomorrow.

Jon's latest film, Reparations, explores the four-century struggle to seek repair and atonement for slavery in the United States. He was motivated to make this film because of his deep belief that communities of color can only achieve liberation by standing with one another. Reparations seeks to educate other communities about the Black reparations movement and how vital it is to healing this country.

In addition to Reparations, Jon's first film in the New Day collection, Alternative Facts: The Lies of Executive Order 9066, reveals a largely untold aspect of the Japanese American incarceration story. ln today's climate of fear and "fake news" the story of the unjust World War ll incarceration of Japanese Americans is a cautionary tale about this country's democracy and the fragile balance of power within our government. This feature documentary chronicles the dark, twisted plot of conspiracy, deceit, and one of the most nefarious cover-ups in American history.

Jon also produces content for the Stop Repeating History campaign, which seeks to educate the public on the importance of political engagement and how we can all take action against hate.