Japantown Task Force urges Board to endorse cultural preservation CHESS report

In a vibrant gathering at San Francisco's city hall, community leaders and advocates passionately voiced their support for the Cultural Heritage and Sustainability Strategy (CHESS) report, aimed at preserving the rich history and cultural identity of Japantown. The meeting, held on July 4, 2025, showcased a united front from various stakeholders, all eager to see the report endorsed by the board.

Rosalind Tonai, a board member of the Japantown Task Force and executive director of the National Japanese American Historical Society, opened the discussion with a heartfelt plea for the CHESS report. She emphasized its role as a roadmap for correcting past injustices through community-led initiatives, highlighting the importance of cultural preservation in a neighborhood that has faced significant challenges over the years.

Lucy Fisher, another board member, echoed these sentiments, noting the report's potential to recognize other Japanese American cultural institutions in San Francisco, such as the recently renovated pagoda in the Japanese Tea Garden. Her remarks underscored the ongoing efforts to enhance cultural exhibitions and performances, fostering a deeper appreciation for the contributions of the Japanese community.

Melissa Bailey Nihei, a grants manager for the Japantown Task Force, shared her personal connection to the community, reflecting on her family's history and the importance of sustaining Japantown for future generations. Her testimony resonated with many, illustrating the deep-rooted ties that bind the community together.

Support for the CHESS report extended beyond Japantown, with representatives from other cultural districts, including the Castro LGBTQ Cultural District and the Transgender District, expressing solidarity. Tina Valentin Aguirre and Samuel Fevella both highlighted the collaborative spirit among cultural districts, emphasizing the shared goal of preserving San Francisco's unique character.

Scott Hamaguchi, a board member of the Japantown Task Force, reminded attendees of the historical significance of their work, linking it to the broader narrative of Japanese Americans in the city. He urged the board to recognize the long-term implications of their decisions, reinforcing the idea that today's actions will shape the future of cultural preservation.

Glynis Nakahara, board president of the Japantown Task Force, concluded the public comments with a powerful statement about the community's resilience. She articulated the CHESS report as not just a document but a symbol of empowerment and self-determination, representing a collective aspiration to reclaim and celebrate their cultural heritage.

As the meeting progressed, it became clear that the CHESS report is more than a strategic plan; it is a testament to the enduring spirit of a community that has faced adversity yet continues to thrive. The board's upcoming decision on the report will not only impact Japantown but will also resonate throughout San Francisco, reinforcing the importance of cultural identity in the fabric of the city.