MI’s Kusakabe featured in ‘Origins: Our Thousand Days’ Cascade PBS docuseries
Published 8:30 am Thursday, March 26, 2026
Special to the Reporter
On the evening of March 12 at SIFF Cinema Uptown in Seattle, Mercer Island resident Judy Kusakabe attended a special preview screening of season four of the Cascade PBS docuseries “Origins” titled “Origins: Our Thousand Days.”
Season four of the short-form docuseries directed by filmmaker Andrew Inaba explores the story of the imprisonment of Japanese Americans following the attack on Pearl Harbor, told through the unique lens of Pacific Northwest communities.
Inaba interviewed Kusakabe for the five-part series.
Kusakabe has a long history with the Mercer Island School District. Annually, she gives presentations to fourth-graders at our elementary schools on the incarceration of Japanese Americans during World War II. Her unique and inspiring educational presentation connects with students.
“Judy has been a longtime and deeply valued guest presenter in our school communities,” said West Mercer Elementary Principal Megan Isakson.
“Through her storytelling and personal connection, she brings the realities of Japanese American incarceration to life in ways that go far beyond a social studies textbook. Over many years, she has built strong, meaningful relationships with students, staff, and families. We are honored to partner with her and to provide a space where her story, and this important history, can continue to be shared.”
“My reason for giving my presentations for the 30 years is that I want to share our stories. Nidoto Nai Yoni Kodomo No Tame Ni – This must never happen again, for the sake of the children,” said Kusakabe.
“Also, Okage Sama De – Because of you, I can be strong. I want to honor my parents, my family, my friends, and their families, all those who were incarcerated,” continued Kusakabe.
Kusakabe’s children attended Mercer Island schools as have several grandchildren, some of whom have recently graduated from Mercer Island High School. Kusakabe’s daughter Andrea Fukano is a special services paraeducator at Islander Middle School.
“The documentary episodes I saw at the screening were very emotional for me, and my family to see. Andrew did an excellent job to show the raw reality of what happened during the incarceration. I could tell that the film really touched the empathy and the hearts of those who viewed it because, as I was passed, in my row, people thanked me. That meant a lot to me because they were thanking me for my part in telling about our history,” said Kusakabe.
“We were absolutely floored and so honored to have my mom be included,” said Fukano. “What a beautiful film. Wow!”
Chapter one of “Our Thousand Days” will be broadcast on Cascade PBS at 8:50 p.m. on April 16 and available online the next day.
