ENMA

ENMA began as an ad hoc group of community minded volunteers in 1998. For the nine (9) years prior to 1998 a group of volunteer's known as the "Japan Week in Bellevue Committee" presented a Japanese Style Festival. The group announced their intention to suspend operations following the 1997 festival. Leaders in the Greater Seattle Japanese Community encouraged a continuation of the festival (matsuri) offering their support. We accepted the challenge to present a fall matsuri for the 1998 season changing the name to the Eastside Nihon Matsuri Association. We operated under the auspices of the Lake Washington Japanese American Citizens League in 1998, and again in 1999. Recognizing the community's interest in continuing this tradition of a fall matsuri that is complementary to the Seattle Cherry Blossom Festival held in the spring brought about the realization that incorporation as a tax exempt non-profit organization would be advantageous for the purposes of recruiting volunteers, focusing effort, and gaining financial support. Our Vision:

Increased awareness and participation in Japan related educational and cultural events

Continued strong presence of Japanese related arts and cultural activities

A diverse population engaged in the observance and practice of Japanese arts forms

Increased exchange between citizens of Japan and America through the arts

Maintain the "purity" of the art forms through understanding, exchange, and practice

Improved mutual understanding and appreciation of cultures between citizens of Japan and America