Eo Hanabusa (they/she)

Bio

Eo is a 4th generation Japanese American based in the San Francisco Bay Area. They graduated from UC Irvine with a degree in ecology and evolutionary biology. While she spent much of her time in a green house and lab on campus, Eo’s multidisciplinary interests lead her to take part in oral history research of the AAPI community in Orange County during the pandemic. Eo also became interested in science communication, exploring radio production and even science comedy! In their work, Eo focuses on intentional communication strategies that integrate science and spiritual frameworks to share ecological and cultural knowledge. In her free time you can find Eo doodling, making Japanese music playlists, and going on nature walks. Please feel welcome to connect!

Solidarity Arts Fellowship reflection

Joining Vigilant Love (VL) as a fellow expanded my vision of restoration. Listening to the experiences of Muslim and Japanese American community members, you learn that surveillance has fragmented land, communities, and individuals for decades by classifying people and persecuting them. This surveillance can morph into implicit forms, like a voice of doubt in your head. VL staff and fellows put together space to untangle ourselves from some of the holds of surveillance that have followed us across generations. There is still work to be done, but you gain the strength to help others - VL is restoration in progress!

Object of resilience

Eo’s object of resilience is an “Omamori” or protective amulet from a temple in their mom’s hometown.