by Jo Anne Shiosaki
Broome’s Nikkei history was honoured recently, over 70 special guests and Nikkei families gathered for the opening of When You Call My Name exhibition at the historic Sailmakers’ Shed. As one of Broome’s oldest surviving pearling‑era buildings, the Sailmakers’ Shed provided an apt and deeply symbolic venue—its weathered timbers and working‑history atmosphere echoing the stories of hard labour, migration, and community carried by Broome’s pre‑war Japanese families.
The exhibition brings forward the lived experiences of more than 200 Japanese residents from Broome and down the coast of Western Australia, who were removed from their homes during World War II, interned interstate, and in many cases deported to Japan. For several families present, this marked the first time their histories had been publicly acknowledged in their hometown.
An incense ceremony invited attendees to pause and honour those who endured separation, loss, and displacement, creating a moment of collective reflection within the historic walls of the old Sailmakers Shed. Guests were invited to explore the artworks by Michael Jalaru Torres and Ben Shiosaki, alongside family photographs, archival materials, and personal testimonies entrusted by Nikkei families.
As visitors moved through the exhibition, elders, descendants, and community members shared stories and reflections, creating space for healing, conversation, and a renewed commitment to recognising Broome’s long and interconnected heritage.
The exhibition was attended by representatives from the Broome Shire Council and Taiji Council—Broome’s sister city—and by Deputy Consul General Mr Daisuke Hasegawa, whose presence underscored the enduring cultural and historical ties between Broome and Japan. Their participation added a diplomatic and intergenerational dimension to the event, affirming the importance of carrying forward our shared history.
The Broome and Western Australian families were honoured to take part in When You Call My Name and extend their heartfelt thanks to WYCMN project initiator Mayu Kanamori, project facilitators Sophie Constable, and Chie Muraoka of Nikkei Australia for the opportunity to honour our ancestors and share their stories with the wider community.
The WA project team including Jo, Michael Jalaru Torres, and Ben Shiosaki worked closely on this exhibition with families in WA. The artworks featured in the exhibition can be seen in more detail on the When You Call My Name website. All photos of the Broome exhibition supplied by Jo Shiosaki and Shoko Ono.
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