Greater Toronto Chapter of the National Association of Japanese Canadians
About Greater Toronto Chapter of the National Association of Japanese Canadians
Based in Toronto, Ontario, the Greater Toronto Chapter of the National Association of Japanese Canadians represents a community-rooted organization with deep historical roots and a commitment to intergenerational justice. Founded on the legacy of the National Japanese Canadian Citizens Association established in Toronto on Labour Day Weekend 1947, the chapter carries forward the activism and advocacy of community pioneers like Roger Obata who gathered representatives from across Canada to establish the first national organization of Japanese Canadians. The NAJC Toronto chapter honors this inheritance by leveraging community history and stories to educate the public and create meaningful pathways toward justice, equity, and human rights. With a vision of a Canada where the stories and histories of all peoples are known and respected, the organization builds understanding that overcomes systemic barriers. The chapter engages multiple generations through its Board of Directors, Elders Council, and Youth Council, ensuring that both wisdom and fresh perspectives inform the organization's work. By facilitating connection through film, community events, and collaborative partnerships, the Toronto chapter demonstrates how historical consciousness and contemporary action combine to address racism and discrimination. The NAJC Toronto community remains dedicated to ensuring that the experiences of Japanese Canadians—including the history of wartime dispossession and ongoing challenges—inform broader conversations about justice and equity in Canada.