Chicago Jazz Musician Gets Kicked Out
I wanted to point out this story which I found at the Chicago Reader’s website and fellow music blogger, Peter Margasak. His blog is called “Post No Bills.” While I certainly hope you check out this blog right here, I also recommend you visit Peter’s blog from time to time. He writes well.
Nori Tanaka is a transplant from Japan. He has set up shop here in Chicago and rapidly become one of the most-prominent jazz drummers on the local jazz scene. He has played with people like Bobby Broom, Robert Shy, Ron Dewar, and Dennis Carroll. He also studied English and was allowed to stay here while he went to school.
Back in 2003 he applied an “Artist’s Visa” which is officially known as an O-1 Visa. He was denied the visa. Nori enrolled at Northern Illinois University to extend his stay. He earned his Master’s Degree while there. He then pursued more learning for another year to try to extend his stay.
Well, now that’s over. He does not have the means or money to try applying for the O-1 Visa again. So, this means he will be going home to Japan.
According to Peter’s article, he will try to get a job at a large Japanese firm, make some money, and try to return to the U.S. While I do not know what can be done to help this musician out, if anyone has any suggestions, you may want to contact either me or Peter at the Reader.
I hate it when the government tries to push out artists. I don’t want to get on a whole immigration rant, but this one seems rather silly. It’s sad to see a talented musician getting the boot, you know?
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