President’s Message

Hi everyone!
The GVJCCA and NAJC would like to thank the Vancouver Japanese Language School & Japanese Hall, Nikkei Place, Alan Emmott Centre, Canadian Race Relations Foundation, City of Burnaby, City of Vancouver, Japan Air Lines, Front Line for Peace, Tonari Gumi, Powell Street Festival Society, Mary Matsuba and all the volunteers who assisted during the Celebration, the numerous sponsors, all the panelists and the many registrants who participated during the 20th Anniversary of Redress Celebration. If there was any one else I missed please let me know, as without your efforts the Celebration would not have been the wonderful success that it was. The success of such a large event as this is so dependent upon volunteers, and we were fortunate to have many. We would also like to extend a special appreciation to all the members of the old Redress Committees who were in attendance. If it wasn’t your efforts during the Redress period, this event would not have any meaning for Japanese Canadians or Japanese immigrants. We thank you all!!

Just as a reminder, there will be an official opening of Murakami Gardens on Salt Spring Island on October 4th. This land was graciously donated by the Murakami family in order to build 27 low-cost housing units for individuals and families at risk of homelessness, and other social challenges. The Murakami’s were the only Japanese Canadians to return to Salt Spring Island after being incarcerated during World War II. Rose and Richard Murakami view this generous gift as a way of giving back to the people of Salt Spring Island community

On November 1, the GVJCCA will be holding a fundraising dance at Nikkei Place. This will be an opportunity to bring friends and dress up. Costumes will not be mandatory but since it will be Halloween weekend, why not join in the fun and disguise yourself? Prizes will be given to participants Tickets will be available soon through the GVJCCA office at 604.777.5222 or email gvjcca@shaw.ca . The cost is $20 per person.

The GVJCCA Volunteer Party will be a little late this year on November 22, at Nikkei Place from 6 – 8 pm. This is a special event for the GVJCCA to thank all its volunteers, donors, and advertisers for the year. We hope you can attend and enjoy seeing your many friends again before succumbing to the anxieties of the Christmas season.

Thank you
Ron Nishimura, President Greater Vancouver Japanese Canadian Citizens’ Association