Japanese American Citizen's League, San Jose Chapter

Started in 1929, the JACL is the oldest and largest Asian American Civil Rights organization in the U.S. The San Jose Chapter may be one of the oldest Chapters having roots when originally organized as the American Loyalty League in 1923 and affiliating with the National JACL in 1930. Throughout the years, the Chapter has enjoyed such leaders as Norman Mineta and Mike Honda and has pursued Civil and Human Rights issues for all Americans. Members have been active proponents for and contributors to San Jose's Japantown, one of only three remaining in the country.. Leadership development, cultural preservation, education and youth support are all part of the on-going activities of the Chapter. The Chapter office is located in the century old Issei Memorial Building (IMB), a City of San Jose historical landmark. The IMB and grounds are owned and maintained by the Chapter on behalf of the Japanese American community. Non-profit organization office space, a community room, kitchen and a secure garden area are all available for public and private use. Revenues generated through Chapter fund raisers and the IMB facility operating revenues are used to off-set the expenses of daily maintenance and long-term preservation of the property. and is a major responsibility of the Chapter. Simply put, the mission of the Chapter is: “San Jose JACL advocates for justice and works to preserve the Issei Memorial Building for future generations.”