Dear Friends:

Welcome to the 72nd Nisei Week Foundation Japanese Festival!

The Nisei Week Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to promote the Japanese and Japanese American heritage throughout southern California. Our all-volunteer organization has worked tirelessly throughout the year to bring you a festival that offers a multitude of opportunities to celebrate this unique cultural heritage in its contemporary setting.

This year’s theme, “Celebrating Global Unity,” reflects the diversity of culture that comprises the “Little Tokyo” area of downtown Los Angeles and the larger community that relates to it. It also rejoices in the global outpouring of support that has enabled our family and friends in Japan to recover from the disastrous earthquake and tsunami of last year.

I invite you to enjoy Nisei Week in its entirety throughout these nine days of cultural and community celebration. Taste the delicious foods, see the colorful displays, listen to traditional and contemporary music, and take in the wonderful grand parade!

I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the Nisei Week Board of Directors and Program Committee Members, Festival Sponsors, and the many supporters and volunteers who help make this festival the great success that it is year after year.

Come one, come all, and enjoy the 72nd Nisei Week Foundation Japanese Festival!

Gratefully,

Reverend Mark M. Nakagawa
2012 Nisei Week Foundation President