People

Brett Esaki (Co-PI) is an Assistant Professor of Practice in East Asian Studies (EAS) and the Coordinator of the Asian Pacific American Studies (APAS) at the U of A. An award-winning scholar, his research explores the intersection of Asian American spirituality and art, and considers how it relates to African American and Native American religion, art, and history. Esaki will lead Japanese American outreach, curriculum development, and advise research. This project will support 4 of his student- and public-facing courses, APAS (current), CIELO, and the Humanities Seminars Program (prospective). On a personal note, all of Esaki’s grandparents were interned. His great-grandfather was sent to a high-security prison, and his maternal family was interned at Tule Lake due to the Loyalty Questionnaire. This family history animates his work on Japanese American history and culture, fostering expansive connections with groups who prioritize equal justice for all.

Beth Weinstein (Co-PI) is an architect and professor of Architecture in the College of Architecture, Planning and Landscape Architecture (CAPLA) at the U of A. Weinstein’s research examines (dis)appearances and (in)visibilities related to climate catastrophe, states of exception, labor, and collaboration. She is a co-founder of ReSI (Remembering Spaces of Internment), an international, interdisciplinary network that studies spaces of internment and their administering organizations. She has directed four international exhibitions and performances, and six publications concerning spaces of internment. She will consult on the project's design components and incorporate the project content in 3 of her current architecture courses.