JACL DC
Japanese American Citizens League, Washington DC Chapter
The Washington, D.C. Chapter of the Japanese American Citizens League (JACL DC) supports and advocates for human and civil rights. The JACL DC Chapter is also dedicated to preserving the heritage and legacy of the Japanese American community through cultural, educational, commemorative, and networking opportunities.
The Japanese American Citizens League, Washington DC Chapter (JACL DC) was established in 1946, shortly after the end of World War II. Based in the nation's capital, JACL DC advocates on behalf of the Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander community. Working with local, regional, national, and international organizations, JACL DC educates the public on the history of Japanese Americans while also protecting and advancing the rights of all.
This chapter also partners with other local organizations and hosts opportunities for individuals in the community to connect for cultural and social events such as the annual Cherry Blossom Festival Freedom Walk and the Smithsonian Day of Remembrance. With our unique geographical location, the nation’s capital, and surrounding environs, we offer opportunities to connect with nationally significant organizations such as the National Japanese American Memorial Foundation, the Embassy of Japan in the United States, the US-Japan Council, and JACL National. Our members hail from the DMV: Washington, DC, Virginia, and Maryland.
Summer Co-Presidents Note
​Dear JACL DC Members and Friends,
As summer begins, we want to take a moment to thank all of you for your continued engagement and support of our chapter. The first half of the year has been filled with meaningful events, community building, and opportunities to reflect, learn, and celebrate our shared heritage and mission.
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We were honored to observe Memorial Day with solemn gratitude, remembering the sacrifices of Japanese American veterans and their enduring legacy. In that same spirit of reflection and recognition, our community gathered at the Smithsonian American Art Museum for a special event featuring Congressman Mark Takano of California. Congressman Takano shared his insights and personal stories of his ties to Mine Okubo, one of the Japanese American artists featured in the Pictures of Belonging exhibition.
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Our spring programming also included the powerful graphic novel event, Living History, at the Japan Information & Culture Center (JICC), which highlighted storytelling as a tool for preserving our history and engaging new generations. It was deeply moving to see how art, memory, and identity intersect in this creative format.
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In May, the JACL DC Young Professionals co-organized a successful and fun-filled AANHPI Trivia Night, drawing participants across the DMV area. The energy and enthusiasm of our younger members give us great optimism for the future.​
Recently, we held our Annual Summer Picnic, always a favorite occasion for family, food, and community connection.
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Looking ahead, we are excited about several upcoming events. The annual JACL National Convention will be held in Albuquerque, New Mexico, this July—a chance for chapters across the country to connect, learn, and reaffirm our shared mission.
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Please mark your calendars for our Keiro Kai celebration, taking place this year on Sunday, September 14. We’ll be sharing more details soon, but we promise it will be a heartfelt tribute to our elders and a joyful gathering for all.
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As always, thank you for being part of the JACL DC family. We’re proud of all we’ve accomplished together, and even more excited about what lies ahead.
Warm regards,
Edson Mori, Co-President
John Tobe, Co-President