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Defining Courage - September 20
Vaccine Clinic - September 24
Samurai Movie Night - October 3
Open House Chicago - October 17-18
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Defining Courage is on September 20th!
Defining Courage tells the powerful story of the Nisei Soldiers—Americans of Japanese ancestry who served in the segregated military units of the 100th Infantry Battalion, 442nd Regimental Combat Team, Military Intelligence Service, and 522nd Field Artillery Battalion during World
War II.
Through powerful storytelling, music, and archival history, the production explores the extraordinary experiences of these soldiers, who faced prejudice at home while fighting for their country abroad. Narrated by Emmy Award-winning ABC7 Los Angeles news anchor and filmmaker David Ono, with music curated by Music Director Chris Wade, Defining Courage offers a moving look at their legacy and what it means to be
an American.
Tickets are on sale now—don't miss your chance to experience this special story!
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Thank You for Supporting JASC at the
Chicago Stars Japanese Heritage Day!
We had a blast joining the Chicago Stars as the Community Spotlight for this year’s Japanese Heritage Day!
We had such a great time connecting with the community, enjoying the game-day atmosphere, and sharing more about JASC’s programs and services. Visitors to our table could write their names in Japanese, learn more about our organization, and enjoy sports- and Japanese American-themed temporary tattoos!
Thank you to everyone who purchased tickets through our special JASC ticket link. Your support directly helps JASC continue providing programs and services that benefit our community.
Thank you to the Chicago Stars for welcoming JASC and creating this opportunity for us to connect with fans and celebrate Japanese American culture together. And, of course, thank you to everyone who stopped by our table to say hello!
We had a fantastic time and hope to see you at another JASC event soon!
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JASC will host a vaccine clinic on Thursday, September 24, from 11:00 AM–1:30 PM, offering flu and COVID-19 vaccinations.
The clinic will be available to ADS clients and homemakers from 11:00 AM–12:30 PM, and will be open to the community from 12:30–1:30 PM.
RSVP is required so we can ensure an adequate number of vaccine doses are available.
All attendees must RSVP through the link below and complete the Walgreens Vaccine Consent Form - please email the completed form to pdesouza@jasc-chicago.org by September 22. Paper forms are also available at the JASC office.
Please note: Vaccines for individuals age 65+ are covered by Medicare/Medicaid. Uninsured individuals may have an out-of-pocket cost of approximately $78. Individuals aged 64 and under who are uninsured may be eligible to receive vaccines at no cost through Walgreens’ coverage program.
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JASC is hosting an Introductory Japanese calligraphy class on Friday, September 25, 2026.
No previous experience necessary. Students will learn foundational skills in a fun and engaging environment!
Class will be held in JASC's Lower Level Activity Room.
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Samurai Movie Night
Saturday, October 3, 2026
We hope you will join us for the next Samurai Movie Night! Presented in partnership with the Japanese Mutual Aid Society, we will be screening the Seven Samurai (1954) at JASC.
Click below to RSVP.
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October Adult Cooking Class
Everyone loves gyoza, but getting that perfect juicy center and golden-crisp skirt takes practice.
Join our Gyoza Party to master every step—from rolling and folding to the perfect sizzle!
Come hungry, leave with a new signature dish to show off at your next gathering!
Registration will open on Friday, September 11th.
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Open House Chicago 2026
We’re happy to be participating in Open House Chicago again this year!
Join us on October 17–18 as we welcome visitors to JASC throughout the weekend.
We’re planning a few special events and activities, so stay tuned for more details as we get closer to the weekend. We look forward to seeing you!
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Tampopo Kai Fall Session Starts This Saturday!
The Tampopo Kai Fall Session begins this Saturday, September 12! We look forward to welcoming our students back for another session of Japanese language learning.
Please note that registration will look a little different this year. Students will purchase a class bundle and then use a separate Attendance Form to let us know which classes they plan to attend. This helps us prepare materials while allowing families flexibility with their attendance.
Please note: Tomoko Hanna Sensei and Sachie Sensei will be teaching the classes on September 12. Naomi will return on September 19.
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NEW Conversational Japanese Class!
Are you somewhere between the Intermediate and Advanced stages of your Japanese studies and looking for more opportunities to
practice speaking?
We’re excited to introduce our new Conversational Japanese class!
Designed for students who have studied Japanese for 3+ years or are approximately at the JLPT N3–N1 level, this class places a greater emphasis on speaking, listening, and comprehension skills.
Rather than following a traditional textbook, each class will be guided by student interests, conversation topics, and teacher input—creating a dynamic and engaging learning experience while exploring a variety
of subjects.
Thursdays | 6:00–7:00 PM
August 27–October 15, 2026
Online via Zoom
Students can register for the full 8-week session or choose individual drop-in dates that work with their schedule.
Registration is now open!
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September Nihongo Table
Join us at Nihongo Table for casual chatting in Japanese, fun activities, snacks and more!
The next Nihongo Table will be on October 22 featuring an onigiri-making workshop!
If you have any questions, please reach out to Ruby Grillier at rgrillier@jasc-chicago.org
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Join Our Team!
We are looking for a Director of Development to join our team.
To apply, please send a resume and cover letter to info@jasc-chicago.org.
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Join Our Team!
We are looking for Japanese Language Teachers to help us grow the Adult Language Program.
To apply, please send a resume and cover letter to info@jasc-chicago.org.
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New JASC Community Spotlight Series
Introducing JASC’s new Community Spotlight series!
We’ll be highlighting the guests and community members who are sharing their passions, doing meaningful work, and making an impact in Chicago and beyond.
Click to read more about Ryosuke Kawamura, a Japanese exchange student from Kyushu University, and his experience at JASC.
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Join our Ikebana classes!
Discover the beauty and simplicity of ikebana, the Japanese art of flower arranging. Learn the fundamentals of the Ohara School of Ikebana as you create your own beautiful floral arrangement. Each class is a complete, stand-alone experience, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced participants. Explore seasonal flowers, develop new skills, and express your creativity in a welcoming environment.
September class dates are available! Click below to register.
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Japanese Conversation Table
Thursday, October 8, 2026
10月の日本語お話会は10月8日（木）
です
開催日：10月8日
開催時間：午後12:00から2:00まで
参加費：１人/１回10ドル
日本語で交流したい方へのお知らせです。（日本語の会話クラスではありません。）
普段あまりほかの方との交流のない方、一人でお住まいの方、思いっきり日本語でおしゃべりしてみませんか？
楽しい話題や暮らしのアイデアを分け合い、ちょっとした悩みや不安など、皆で話し合えば解決法がでてくるかも知れません。いろいろなことを日本語で話し合い、英語社会で溜まったストレスを解消しましょう。
このプログラムに興味のある方、参加したいと思われる方は、Eメールで川口ケイclasses@jasc-chicago.org とルビー・グリリエー rgrillier@jasc-chicago.org
または電話：773-275-0097内線226, までご連絡ください。
Calling all native Japanese speakers to our monthly gathering of fellowship and connection with other native Japanese speakers! Please note this is not a Japanese language class but rather a time for fellowship while speaking in fluent Japanese.
Date: Thursday, October 8, 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm
Cost: $10 per person, per session
Location: JASC 5700 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago IL 60659
JASC's Conversation Table welcomes everyone to share their experiences, ideas, and stories through social interaction and offers an opportunity to expand their social networks with others in the local community.
If you know someone who would like to participate, please contact Kay Kawaguchi by email at classes@jasc-chicago.org or call her at 773-275-0097 x 226 and leave a message to RSVP. Kay can answer any questions about the program in Japanese or in English. You may also reach out to Ruby Grillier at rgrillier@jasc-chicago.org
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Make This Fall Unforgettable for Your Kids!
Looking for an exciting, memorable day camp experience? Join us at JASC for our Fall Sports Day Camp (Aki no Undokai)!
Campers will team up for traditional Japanese sports day games, learn how to craft their own onigiri bento lunch, and experience the power of teamwork in a fun, supportive environment.
To make the day even more exciting, Kana Kendziera, a former member of the Japanese national volleyball team, will be joining as our special guest to inspire our young athletes!
Spaces are limited. Sign up today to give your child a day filled with energy, culture, and fun!
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JASC’s Adult Day Services provides older adults with a safe, engaging environment that supports their physical, mental, and emotional well-being through customized care plans and daily activities like art, music, and dance. Located at 5700 N. Lincoln Ave., our program also offers respite for family caregivers and the added support of two on-staff Registered Nurses.
Interested in Adult Day Services?
For more information, you can contact us:
We urge prospective clients and their families to tour our new facility on 5700 N Lincoln Ave and check out this wonderful program.
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Cranes for Peace Project
A new project has been launched by the Japanese Culture Center and the Osaka Committee of Chicago Sister Cities International, and the Japanese American Service Committee is proud to be a partner!
We’re setting a goal to fold over 1,000 origami cranes to contribute to this collaborative art project—and we’re calling on our community to help us reach it.
You can participate by:
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Folding cranes at home (please leave wings up and unfolded for storage)
- Joining upcoming folding workshops at JASC, where we’ll provide the origami paper and guidance
If you’d like to drop off your folded cranes at JASC, please contact Ruby at rgrillier@jasc-chicago.org, and we’ll make sure they are transported to the Japanese Culture Center.
We are proud to announce that thanks to our amazing community, we have collected over 5,000 cranes! Thank you so much for your help!
We are still collecting cranes into August if you would like to join.
Click below to learn more about the project and how to participate!
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JASC is hosting an Opening Program for the traveling exhibit Crystal City: America’s Last WWII Concentration Camp on Saturday, October 17.
Hear personal stories from Crystal City camp survivors and descendants, followed by a screening of the short documentary Then Becoming Now. The program will explore the experiences of incarceration, resilience, and the lasting legacy of Crystal City.
RSVP is required and seating is limited to 100 guests.
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"OBON": Staged Readings of a Work-in-Progress Play by Yū Miri
Yū Miri, one of Japan’s most acclaimed playwrights and novelists, will present staged readings of her work-in-progress “OBON.” Based on oral history interviews that Yū and her collaborator Michael Bourdaghs (University of Chicago) have carried out with approximately fifty members of Chicago’s Japanese American community, the play brings together professional actors with community member interviewees to reimagine the multi-generational history of a Japanese American Chicago, including the 20,000 persons who moved to the city from wartime incarceration camps and their descendants, as well as more recent arrivals from Japan and elsewhere.
Three public events are scheduled as this phase of the project wraps up:
Thursday, 9/17: 6:00 p.m., "Sound and Voice in the Work of Yu Miri," Room 314 at the DePaul University Lincoln Park Student Center (2250 North Sheffield Ave, Chicago, IL 60614). This will include a reading by Yu Miri from her novel End of August, a panel discussion of her work by several scholars, and finally a staged reading of one scene from the work-in-progress playscript "OBON." The event should last about 90 minutes (no registration required). Sponsored by the Japan Foundation, the DePaul University Humanities Center, and the University of Chicago Center for East Asian Studies.
Monday, 9/21: 7:00 p.m.: staged reading of work-in-progress play "OBON," Theater West, Logan Center for the Arts. The event should last about 75 minutes; registration required: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/obon-staged-reading-of-a-work-in-progress-by-yu-miri-tickets-1993633115315?aff=oddtdtcreator
Wednesday, 9/23: 7:30 p.m.: staged reading of "OBON," Theater 1, Theater Wit (1229 W Belmont, Chicago IL 60657). The event should last about 75 minutes; registration required: https://www.theaterwit.org/tickets/productions/615/performances#top
The staged reading events are sponsored by the Pozen Family Center for Human Rights, the Center for East Asian Studies, and Arts and Humanities Division (all University of Chicago), and Theater Wit.
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Join FSF and NEIU for an evening of community, history, and celebration marking the 45th anniversary of the 1981 CWRIC hearings and the public launch of Reckoning with Redress - a cinematic digital history project years in the making.
This event is free and open to the public. Visit fullspectrum.education for more details and to RSVP.
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Could You Have Missing Money Waiting for You?
Did you know that 1 in 4 Illinois residents has unclaimed funds waiting for them? The Illinois State Treasurer’s Office is currently holding over $5 billion in forgotten cash, stocks, and property. This includes things like forgotten bank accounts, uncashed checks, utility deposits, and life insurance proceeds.
The state's ICash program is a free service dedicated to safety-keeping these assets
until they can be returned to their rightful owners or heirs. The average claim paid out is $1,000—and it costs absolutely nothing to get your money back! For more info visit https://icash.illinoistreasurer.gov/ or reach out to the office at 800-961-8303.
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HAPPENING AT AIRMW: AMPLIFY!
September 24th, 25th & 26th | AIRMW Cultural Hub | 9:00AM-9:00PM
AIRMW Cultural Hub (4875 N Elston Ave. Chicago, IL 60630)
The Music of Asian America Research Center, in partnership with Asian Improv aRts Midwest and Elastic Arts, is pleased to present “AMPLIFY! A Festival of Asian American Music, Sound, and Scholarship 2026.” The festival brings together engaged scholarship and live performance to cultivate a vibrant community of musicians and sustain dialogue across artistic, academic, and public spheres. AMPLIFY! also offers a platform for collaboration, critical inquiry, and creative exchange, centering the rich histories, aesthetics, and politics that define Asian American sound. Together, we aim to elevate marginalized voices, nurture intergenerational mentorship, and build lasting networks that reach beyond the festival. Both participants and audiences will explore pressing questions about cultural memory, migration, solidarity, experimentation, and the evolving landscape of Asian American music-making in Chicago and across the Americas.
RSVP requested.
For a complete schedule and more information visit: https://asianamericanmusic.org/fest2026/
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SHUBUKAI 50TH ANNIVERSARY PERFORMANCE
Saturday, Sept. 19th | The Edge Theater | 3:00PM
5451 N Broadway, Chicago, IL 60640
Join us for the 50th anniversary of Shubukai with a full program of special guests: Koryu Nishikawa, Kanshichinao Fujima and Yurina Fujima and supported by Tsukasa Taiko & Toyoakimoto Shamisen
More information TBA
RSVP HERE
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One-Day Beginner Shamisen Workshop
AIRMW Cultural Hub (4875 N Elston Ave. Chicago, IL 60630)
$180 / person (workshop fee includes instrument rental) Payment is non-refundable.
A 3 hour one-day beginner workshop intensive in ozashiki style shamisen with Toyoakimoto to learn fundamentals of how to hold and play the Japanese three-stringed lute.
Sunday, October 4th (+ kids)
5:00 - 8pm (adults)
Open to all ages and experiences. Maximum of 5 participants.
Workshop fee includes instrument rental.For questions email: info@airmw.org
REGISTER HERE
Payment due upon registration and nonrefundable*
If you would like to pay via Zelle, please send us an email before
completing the registration form.
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