Japanese Americans and Muslims March for Solidarity

On Saturday, March 25th, I participated in the Solidarity March and Rally co-sponsored by the Nihonmachi Outreach Committee (NOC) and the South Bay Islamic Association (SBIA).  The march was organized to oppose the growing anti-Muslim sentiments and government actions.  It was another example of how the divisive policies and attitude of the current administration have brought people together.

It was a small gathering (maybe 120 people???) that marched down 6th Street from Japantown to the plaza at City Hall.  Speakers included representatives from both the Japanese American and Islamic communities as well as other local activists and San Jose Assemblyman Ash Kalra.  Many described the impact of Executive Order 9066 signed by President Roosevelt in 1942 that resulted in the first a curfew and then the internment of 110,000 Japanese Americans, many of whom were US citizens.  Parallels were drawn to the recently proposed travel ban and registry discriminating against Muslim immigrants, refugees, residents and citizens.

San Jose's Japantown is a unique place, being both close-knit and inclusive.  How fitting that leaders from this community should reach out in unity to express their outrage and to declare NOT AGAIN.

A Day without Women Rally, San Jose March 8, 2017

I went to the Day without Women Rally at City Hall today.  It was not huge but still well-attended with a sea of women, and some men, dressed in red.  The first speaker Kevin De Leon, California State Senator and President Pro Tempore.  He spoke about growing up as the youngest child in a household of an immigrant single mother with a third grade education and pledged his support for women's rights.  Next was Cindy Chavez, Santa Clara County Supervisor, who talked about the recent community meetings asking women what the county can do to support them.  A report has been compiled and goes before the Board of Supervisors next Tuesday.  She asked that women go to support the recommendations.

Additional speakers included a woman representing female farmworkers, a Jewish Community Center, a Muslim outreach group and a resistance organizer from Redwood City.  Also, a group of girls from Downtown College Prep, each telling their story of why they are going to Rise Up.  I'm sure there will be a more complete list on Facebook or other media.

All of them were inspirational urged women to stay involved through political activism and mutual support.

Anna Eshoo Town Hall - great event!

Anna Eshoo held a Town Hall in Campbell Saturday morning, March 4. She packed the Heritage Theater and an overflow room.

It was a really inspirational event! Anna opened by talking about the 3 top issues she’s fighting for – the Affordable Care Act, investigation into Russian ties to the election, and requiring elected officials to provide their tax returns. She’s got our back! The extensive Q&A that followed covered every political issue you can think of and then some. I like her style, she’s a straight shooter – she answers everyone’s questions directly and explains why and how she is fighting for us. She’s happy to take questions and is committed to responding to everyone (http://eshoo.house.gov/).

We’re lucky to have her as our Congresswoman representing the 18^th Congressional District. Go Anna!