FEATURED EVENT
LECTURE | UNDER THE CHERRY TREES
In Japan, people have long strolled under masses of cherry blossoms in a springtime
tradition known as hanami (花見; flower viewing). Today,
millions of people enjoy a similar experience in Washington, D.C., made possible
through the combined efforts of Japanese and American individuals who shared a vision.
Local writer Diana Parsell, author of Eliza Scidmore:
The Trailblazing Journalist Behind Washington’s Cherry Trees,
will share the history and symbolism of cherry blossoms in Japan and trace the remarkable
story of how they came to grace the banks of the Potomac River.
In this richly illustrated talk, learn about the cultural and spiritual meanings
behind hanami that has connected people, places, and histories across generations and continents
ABOUT THE PRESENTER
Diana Parsell
Author
Diana Parsell is a professional writer
and former journalist with a keen interest in Washington, D.C., history. Over a thirty-year
editorial career, she did writing, editing, and project management for numerous nonprofits
and publications, including National Geographic and The Washington Post. She also
worked as a writer-editor for several
major science and environmental organizations in Washington and Southeast Asia.
She is the author of Eliza Scidmore: The Trailblazing Journalist Behind Washington’s Cherry Trees
(Oxford University Press, 2023). A graduate of Marietta College in her native Ohio, she holds
a publication specialist certificate from George Washington University and master’s degrees
from the University of Missouri and Johns Hopkins University.
As an outgrowth of her book research at the Library of Congress, she now volunteers there as a
docent for public tours. She lives with her husband in Falls Church, Virginia.
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