FACEism: Los Angeles Fashion Designer Sheds Light on the Immigration Act of 1924
As 2024 comes to a close, we reflect on a pivotal moment in history that occurred 100 years ago — the Immigration Act of 1924. This largely forgotten law significantly impacted America’s demographic landscape. Through her innovative designs, a young Los Angeles fashion designer is bringing attention to this event and showing how knowledge can empower us all.
Fashion as a Medium for Change
The fashion world thrives on change, introducing new styles and trends every season. However, Michelle Hanabusa, a Los Angeles-based designer, uses fashion as more than just a creative outlet; she employs it as a vehicle for storytelling and advocacy.
“I’ve never been good with words, so fashion has been my way to express emotions and thoughts,” Hanabusa explains. “If I was going to do something on my own, it was going to have a purpose.”
Celebrating Diversity: The Roots of “American Made”
Hanabusa’s journey began with a project called “American Made,” celebrating the diversity that defines the United States. “We photographed 500 people across the U.S., showcasing the richness of our community’s stories,” she recalls. This grassroots initiative emphasized that America’s strength lies in its diversity.
Confronting Hate: The Birth of “Hate Is a Virus”
Amid a wave of hate crimes targeting Asian Americans, Hanabusa felt compelled to act. The phrase “Hate is a virus” emerged from a conversation with a team member, sparking the creation of a single T-shirt. Within weeks, the design went viral, garnering over 3 million impressions and igniting a movement against hate.
Highlighting History: The “1924” Collection
Hanabusa’s latest project, “1924,” sheds light on the Immigration Act of 1924, a law designed to maintain America’s ethnic composition as predominantly Western and Northern European. This legislation severely restricted immigration from Asian, African, and other non-European countries, disproportionately impacting Japanese immigrants.
Inspired by her mentor, civil rights activist Mike Murase, Hanabusa delved into the act’s history. “The Immigration Act of 1924 was essentially an exclusion act,” says Murase, founder of UCLA’s Asian American Studies program. “It targeted immigrants of color, particularly from Asia and Africa, while favoring European countries.”
For Hanabusa, the act’s implications hit close to home. “My great-grandfather immigrated to the U.S. in the early 1900s,” she shares. “It’s powerful to think about how this law could have impacted my family’s journey.”
Using Fashion to Inspire Action
Through her brand, Uprisers, Hanabusa aims to educate and inspire. “Fashion can get people’s attention and motivate them to take action in their own creative ways,” she says. The “1924” collection serves as a reminder of America’s complex history and a call to vigilance against discriminatory policies.
The Road Ahead
Hanabusa’s mission is resonating beyond the fashion world, earning the attention of major brands and fostering collaborative projects. Her commitment to using fashion for social good is redefining the industry’s role in advocacy and education.
For those inspired by her work, the Uprisers brand is available in select stores and online. Simply search for “Uprisers Clothing” to explore collections that combine style with purpose.
