From the Archives: Editorial April 1958

BIRTH OF A BULLETIN

When British Columbia is celebrating its Centennial Year with myriad kinds of activities, it is fitting that the Vancouver J.C.C.A. has chosen this year for the launching of this Bulletin. For this, too, is a sign of progress. Indeed, our community has grown together with this province and has contributed tangibly to its development; this is evident in the ever-increasing number of Japanese Canadians who are engaged successfully in the professions, trades, and industries. For some time there has been felt a need for a regular publication of this kind because in the past decade the local Japanese community has gained steadily in both size and stature. An organ of this nature will help to disseminate news of special interest to the Japanese community and be a vehicle for expressing thoughts of common interest

As we celebrate the Centenary and rejoice in the fact that we are an integral part of this wonderful province which has rewarded our endeavours abundantly for half a century, let us be mindful that while this citizenship has granted us privileges, it has increased our civic responsibility. Since the J.C.C.A. is the only nationally representative organization for Canadians of Japanese origins, it shoulders a tremendous responsibility. Whenever an important issue confronts us, it is inevitably the J.C.C.A. who must take it up on our behalf. When civic and other groups seek contact with the Japanese, they often approach the J.C.C.A. Yet those who are not familiar with the amount of routine work which the J.C.C.A. performs may believe that the organization is inactive or may even doubt its usefulness. It is hoped that the Bulletin will bring to their notice highlights of such functions. For the fact is, there are still matters that require careful attention. Not the least of these is the maintenance of good public relations with the general community. The efficacy of the J.C.C.A. depends heavily on the many fine men and women of our community who serve with devotion for the benefit of our community and country.

Complacency is an evil Japanese Canadians can ill afford. Let us believe positively in ourselves so that we may never be at a loss to show our good citizenship. Opportunities are everywhere—at work, school, church, clubs, and sports functions to name a few. Everyone is a potential public-relations man.