The Resilience of the Amma: Reviving Tradition in the Face of Adversity
The Amma, often referred to as “sea women,” represent a vital cultural heritage along the Wajima coast in Japan, engaging in free diving for over 400 years to collect shellfish and seaweed. Utilizing special breathing techniques, these skilled divers have long contributed to the local economy, harvesting significant amounts of turban shells and abalone. However, the historic practice faced unprecedented challenges following a series of catastrophic natural disasters that marred this serene region.
On New Year’s Day, a powerful 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck the area, causing extensive damage to both the environment and the livelihood of the Amma. As if this were not enough, torrential rains in September followed, creating additional destruction. The idyllic sea turned murky, clouded with sediment and sand from the heavy storms, and previous fishing grounds became virtually barren.
The calamities significantly altered the seafloor, affecting the Amma's ability to fish. Kadok Natsuki, the head of a preservation group in Wajima, expressed how the seabed had risen nearly two meters, making it impossible for boats to launch. Many divers lost their homes and were forced into temporary housing. During what is typically the peak season for harvesting turban shells, the community faced a grim reality as port restoration work impeded their fishing activities.
Faced with limited options, the Amma adapted their diving skills for alternative purposes, collaborating with researchers in underwater surveys to locate less-affected fishing sites further from the coast. Their efforts bore fruit when they discovered previously undamaged grounds, leading to a new initiative.
The divers embarked on a mission to collect turban shells from these newfound aquatic habitats, transporting them back to monitor their growth. Over 100 Amma united in solidarity, gathering over 2,000 turban shells to be released strategically in a different location, with the hope of rejuvenating their populations.
Despite the community's resourcefulness and determination, challenges remain. Koki, a devoted Amma, expressed concerns about the future of their profession. With prolonged inactivity in the face of ongoing struggles, many divers may opt for retirement. Moreover, recruiting new participants has become increasingly difficult as younger generations tend to migrate toward urban centers in search of different career paths, disconnecting from their familial traditions.
The financial instability that arises from fluctuating catch amounts further complicates the preservation of their cultural identity.
In a bid to address these issues, Koki and her team convened with other Amma from across Japan for a summit aimed at preserving and passing down their heritage. The discussions echoed sentiments of hope intertwined with caution as they acknowledged the trials facing their community.
As Wajima port remains partially operational with murky waters and diving put on hold, the future of the Amma remains uncertain. Nevertheless, the collaborative spirit, enduring passion, and sheer resilience of these divers stand as testaments to their rich cultural heritage.
The journey of the Amma is a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between tradition and the ever-present forces of nature; it emphasizes the importance of adaptation, community solidarity, and the will to preserve a way of life that has defined their identity for centuries.
Through these trials, the Amma’s commitment to sustaining their profession signals not only a fight for survival but also an unwavering dedication to keeping their traditions alive against the odds.
Part 1/7:
The Resilience of the Amma: Reviving Tradition in the Face of Adversity
The Amma, often referred to as “sea women,” represent a vital cultural heritage along the Wajima coast in Japan, engaging in free diving for over 400 years to collect shellfish and seaweed. Utilizing special breathing techniques, these skilled divers have long contributed to the local economy, harvesting significant amounts of turban shells and abalone. However, the historic practice faced unprecedented challenges following a series of catastrophic natural disasters that marred this serene region.
The Impact of Natural Disasters
Part 2/7:
On New Year’s Day, a powerful 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck the area, causing extensive damage to both the environment and the livelihood of the Amma. As if this were not enough, torrential rains in September followed, creating additional destruction. The idyllic sea turned murky, clouded with sediment and sand from the heavy storms, and previous fishing grounds became virtually barren.
Part 3/7:
The calamities significantly altered the seafloor, affecting the Amma's ability to fish. Kadok Natsuki, the head of a preservation group in Wajima, expressed how the seabed had risen nearly two meters, making it impossible for boats to launch. Many divers lost their homes and were forced into temporary housing. During what is typically the peak season for harvesting turban shells, the community faced a grim reality as port restoration work impeded their fishing activities.
Adapting to New Realities
Part 4/7:
Faced with limited options, the Amma adapted their diving skills for alternative purposes, collaborating with researchers in underwater surveys to locate less-affected fishing sites further from the coast. Their efforts bore fruit when they discovered previously undamaged grounds, leading to a new initiative.
The divers embarked on a mission to collect turban shells from these newfound aquatic habitats, transporting them back to monitor their growth. Over 100 Amma united in solidarity, gathering over 2,000 turban shells to be released strategically in a different location, with the hope of rejuvenating their populations.
Cultural Heritage at Risk
Part 5/7:
Despite the community's resourcefulness and determination, challenges remain. Koki, a devoted Amma, expressed concerns about the future of their profession. With prolonged inactivity in the face of ongoing struggles, many divers may opt for retirement. Moreover, recruiting new participants has become increasingly difficult as younger generations tend to migrate toward urban centers in search of different career paths, disconnecting from their familial traditions.
The financial instability that arises from fluctuating catch amounts further complicates the preservation of their cultural identity.
A Future Unwritten
Part 6/7:
In a bid to address these issues, Koki and her team convened with other Amma from across Japan for a summit aimed at preserving and passing down their heritage. The discussions echoed sentiments of hope intertwined with caution as they acknowledged the trials facing their community.
As Wajima port remains partially operational with murky waters and diving put on hold, the future of the Amma remains uncertain. Nevertheless, the collaborative spirit, enduring passion, and sheer resilience of these divers stand as testaments to their rich cultural heritage.
Part 7/7:
The journey of the Amma is a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between tradition and the ever-present forces of nature; it emphasizes the importance of adaptation, community solidarity, and the will to preserve a way of life that has defined their identity for centuries.
Through these trials, the Amma’s commitment to sustaining their profession signals not only a fight for survival but also an unwavering dedication to keeping their traditions alive against the odds.