Japanese American Citizens League Portland Chapter

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About Japanese American Citizens League Portland Chapter

The Portland Chapter of the Japanese American Citizens League is the oldest and largest Asian American civil rights organization serving the Portland, OR community and beyond. Founded in 1928 and joining the national organization in 1929, Portland JACL works to promote and uphold human and civil rights while preserving the cultural heritage and values of Japanese Americans. As a membership-driven organization, the chapter focuses on advocacy, community education, and social justice initiatives that extend beyond the Japanese American community to support civil rights for all people.

Portland JACL's work encompasses historical education and remembrance, community engagement, and active advocacy on contemporary civil rights issues. The organization hosts annual Day of Remembrance events commemorating the incarceration of over 120,000 people of Japanese ancestry during World War II, maintains scholarship programs for community members, and organizes cultural celebrations including the Nikkei Holiday Party and community picnics. The chapter also coordinates volunteer-driven initiatives in web development, social media, membership coordination, and newsletter development. Portland JACL remains entirely volunteer and member-run, allowing community members to contribute directly to the organization's mission through committee participation and event support. Whether through attendance at community events, membership involvement, or volunteer service, Portland JACL provides multiple pathways for individuals in Portland, Oregon to engage with Japanese American culture, history, and the broader civil rights movement.