Just like “hello” in English, in Okinawa men will greet you with “Haisai,” and women will say, “Haitai”, regardless of the hour. The original Okinawan language, Shimakutuba, was once banned because Okinawan people had to use standard Japanese after Okinawa was merged into Japan. Therefore, the use of the native Okinawan language was on the decline. But in 2006 the Okinawa Prefectural Government proclaimed September 18 as “Shimakutuba-no Hi” (Island Languages Day) recognizing five Okinawan langua

In the Okinawan language, there is a concept called “Yuimaru,” which means “the circle of the people” or "spirit of cooperation". This concept describes how Okinawans take care of their neighbors to ensure we all feel connected and valued. Our military community also embodies this life style in the unique ways we support our Soldiers and families to stay ready and resilient. To help PCSing children find their "Yuimaru" and feel welcomed in their new community, schools and youth/teen centers offe