THE JACL NORTHERN CALIFORNIA - WESTERN NEVADA - PACIFIC (NCWNP) DISTRICT

The Japanese American Citizens League, Northern California - Western Nevada - Pacific (NCWNP) District sponsors educational programs for its members and the public. Programs have focused on such topics as hate crimes, which taught our members how to work with their local police departments to combat hate violence; on homophobia in the Japanese American community, which served as an opportunity to open a dialogue and break down the stereotypes and fear that keep us apart; and on the Nisei resisters of conscience, which featured both veterans and resisters sharing their stories in an effort to bring a healing to our community.

The NCWNP District sponsors activities that remember and honor our elders as well as those that nurture our youth. Each year in May, we co-sponsor Memorial Day services with VFW Nisei Post #9879 and the Military Intelligence Service Association of Northern California. It is a time to pay tribute to the men and women of our community who served their country in uniform. Each year in June, we sponsor a JACL Junior Olympics, where youth teams throughout Northern California spend a fun-filled day competing in a variety of track and field events.

NCWNP involves itself in efforts to ensure the future viability and vitality of San Francisco's Japantown. The NCWNP District has been involved in the campaign to have the Japanese YWCA returned to the community's ownership and is currently involved in the battle to save Japantown Bowl. Efforts have included letters to the Mayor of San Francisco, speaking before the Board of Supervisors, circulating petitions, picketing, working with the media, and educating the broader community. While the alley has been sold to an outside developer, efforts continue to seek a resolution that is both sensitive and responsible to the community's needs and future.