Welcome: Portland Chapter JACL, Join Us
Portland Chapter Membership Information
What is JACL?
The Japanese American Citizens League (JACL) was founded in 1929 and is one of the oldest civil rights organizations in the United States. JACL continues to be the primary voice for upholding civil rights of Japanese Americans, with strong advocacy programs at the national level and a network of local chapters across the country engaged in a wide range of activities. Recent national programs include: Monitoring anti-Asian violence.
1. | Promoting accurate historical accounts of the Japanese American experience in school curricula and textbooks |
2. | Nikkei leadership development programs |
3. | Creation of the Legacy Fund endowment |
4. | Monitoring the implementation of redress, for which JACL was instrumental in obtaining for our community |
Do I have to be of Japanese heritage to join?
No. Portland JACL is open to anyone who has an interest in civil rights and Japanese culture. Many of our Portland members have no ancestral ties to Japan. We are a very inclusive group.
Why should I join the Portland Chapter of JACL?
The Portland Chapter of JACL helps to support and maintain the Nikkei community and provides a voice for the community to speak out against discrimination and infringement of civil rights in Oregon. As a member of the Chapter, you can reconnect to the spirit, heritage, and culture of Japanese American life through a wide range of programs and activities. Some of the major program and activities the Chapter recently sponsored or participated in include:
1. | Fighting for Civil Rights in an Era of Terror" A day of remembrance event focusing on civil rights challenges of the interment experience, racial and religious profiling, and the Patriot Act. |
2. | Nikkei Book Project - The Gift. by Deena Nakata was completed in 1995 and chronicled the Nikkei in Oregon |
3. | Memorial plaque and dedication program at the Portland Assembly Center |
4. | Annual scholarship program and high school graduation banquet |
5. | Nikkei Community Summer Picnic |
6. | Oshogatsu New Year Party |
With membership in JACL, you are also eligible for these important benefits:
1. | Scholarship Program |
2. | Long term and home health care plans |
3. | JACL Credit Union VISA card |
4. | Discounted long distance calling program |
5. | Discounted car rentals |
6. | Our monthly Chapter newsletter; and the national newspaper, the Pacific Citizen |