The 2014 National Convention will be held in San Jose, California from Wednesday, July 9, through Saturday, July 12 at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel located at 2050 Gateway Place.  This venue, in the heart of Silicon Valley, is very close to the Norman Y. Mineta International airport and a short trip to Japantown, one of the nation’s three remaining “J-towns.”  The convention will precede the local Obon Festival and will showcasebon odori (Japanese folk dancing).  Conventioneers and boosters will be able to enjoy the cultural extravaganza and even join with 2,000 dancers in the largest such gathering in the country!

The convention theme: WE ARE AMERICA is a reflection of the diversity within the Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) community and the important role we play in our nation’s socio-economic future.  For far too long, AAPI’s and other people of color have struggled to gain acceptance as Americans.  The 2014 JACL National Convention will focus on raising awareness about diversity and inclusion of communities of color as an integral part of the fabric of American society.

The JACL organization is steeped in legacy reflected at the National Conventions where honors and awards are bestowed on deserving recipients who have played critical roles in advancing the cause of justice in America.  Living legends Norman Y. Mineta and Mike Honda will participate in select functions and activities of the San Jose convention to help uphold this level of prominence. 

A crucial component and priority of the JACL is our investment and support of our youth.  Young adults are an integral part of the convention planning committee.  And the JACL, through the National Youth/Student Council, will actively encourage and provide financial support for youth from across the nation to attend the convention as America’s future leaders.

For more information and/or to register for the convention check the website at : http://www.2014.jacl.org