NAJC Chapter

The Kamloops NAJC is a chapter of a national organization. It was originally formed in 1979 as the Kamloops Redress Committee to represent the Japanese Canadians of Kamloops and Area in the fight for Redress.

In October 1988, the committee was reorganized as the Kamloops & Area Chapter of the National Association of Japanese Canadians, with the Certificate of Incorporation being received on October 9, 1992. The Kamloops & Area Chapter represents the area at the National level, sends representatives to meetings, and meets financial obligations to the National organization. They represent all people of Japanese origin in our area, not just members.

The Association is involved with political matters and issues dealing with Human Rights and with preserving our history. They have a “History Preservation” Room in the basement of the Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre and collect archival papers and museum pieces to preserve Japanese history. Donations are most welcome. They are also involved with collecting Oral Histories of our members, especially our Seniors.

Activities include an annual fundraising “Fun Casino” and a “Things Japanese” Sale, Bazaar & Tea. They also organize Nikkei Heritage Day to celebrate our Nikkei Heritage. In addition, in order to recognize people in Kamloops & Area who have made significant contributions to the JC community, Kamloops, and Canada, their names are placed on a Nikkei Honour Roll ‘in appreciation for dedicated and invaluable services to the community’. They also recommend people to receive the NAJC National Merit Award ‘for invaluable service to the Kamloops Chapter of the NAJC’.

The KJCA and the Kamloops NAJC Chapter often work as parallel organizations and co-sponsor many of the activities.