JACL National Board Statement | February 15, 2026
February 18, 2026
For Immediate Release
Contact:
Saki Mori, Interim Executive Director, smori@jacl.org
Seia Watanabe, Vice President of Public Affairs, swatanabe@jacl.org
On February 15th, the JACL National Board made the decision to implement an emergency expenditure reduction plan which includes the layoff of three of our staff. This decision was made based on updated financial projections and an evaluation of National JACL programs. These actions were taken after deep consultation and reflect the challenging landscape for membership-based non-profits alongside rising personnel and program costs. This decision was necessary based on our fiduciary duty as stewards of JACL.
The JACL National Board expresses its gratitude and appreciation to the staff for their service and dedication to JACL’s mission. Their hard work over a combined 40 years of service has advanced the JACL and the community at large.
Despite these challenges the board is determined to secure the future of JACL and continue its mission to defend civil rights and support democracy.
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The Japanese American Citizens League is a national organization whose ongoing mission is to secure and maintain the civil rights of Japanese Americans and all others who are victimized by injustice and bigotry. The leaders and members of the JACL also work to promote cultural, educational, and social values and preserve the heritage and legacy of the Japanese American community.
