November 26, 2005

  • RIP Pat Morita (June 28, 1932 - November 24, 2005)


    While most people know Pat Morita as Mr. Miyagi, I know him more as an individual that was born in Isleton, CA, fought a debilitating childhood disease of spinal tuberculosis, was interned as soon as he recovered, resettled in Sacramento, CA and went on to become an important actor for Asian Americans.


    Here in Sacramento, the Morita family operated a restaurant called "Ariaki Chop Suey." I've been to the former location and although it's not there anymore, knowing that it was once there is important to me.


    He also stated numerous times his understanding of the struggles of Asian Americans in society, often citing his experiences being interned as a newly able to walk child, as well as in Hollywood, where he sometimes took less than flattering roles.


    All in all though, being that he died on Thanksgiving Day, "Thank you Mr. Morita."