The Japanese American Citizens League held its 54th National Convention in the birthplace of American democracy, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The convention’s theme was “Looking Into the Future Together,” held in partnership with OCA – Asian Pacific American Advocates and APIAVote, focusing on unity among the AANHPI communities.
Key highlights of the event include:
- The welcome reception at the Philadelphia City Hall, where attendees heard from Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su and Philadelphia Councilwoman Nina Ahmad.
- The National Council adopted resolutions to update membership protocols, take action on the Gaza conflict and hate crimes, and support the Salt Lake City Japantown.
- Workshops covered topics including African American reparations, election strategy, social media marketing, the future of internment sites, and more.
- The APIAVote Presidential Town Hall featured speakers including Vice President Kamala Harris, Tamlyn Tomita, and members of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus.
- Japanese American of the Biennium Awards were conferred upon Judge Dana M. Sabraw, Dr. Satsuki Ina, and David Ono.
- Ruby Pins were awarded to Teresa Maebori of the Philadelphia Chapter and Steven Okamoto of the San Mateo Chapter for their exceptional service to the JACL.
- The Sayonara Banquet concluded the convention, with the awardees recognized and the recently elected National Board members sworn in, with the oaths delivered by Congresswoman Jill Tokuda of Hawaii.
Please click the link below for the full statement from JACL National, which includes details on the new constitutional amendments, resolutions, and event photos.