The Japanese American Cultural and Community Center (JACCC) in Little Tokyo will hold a hope and memorial service on Thursday, March 17, 2011, for victims of the earthquake and tsunami that struck Japan late Friday.

 “Seeing the devastation so far away can leave people with a sense of helplessness, but Thursday's memorial will provide an opportunity for the community to come together, and reflect on the suffering of countless individuals and our interconnectedness,” said JACCC Executive Director Chris Aihara.

The interfaith service and community gathering will begin at 6:30 p.m. at the JACCC Plaza at 244 South San Pedro Street in downtown Los Angeles. It will be open to the public. There will be representatives from Japan disaster relief funds, for individuals who wish to make a contribution.

Opened in 1980 JACCC serves as an important cultural bridge between the United States and Japan and a center for Japanese American community activities.

The event is co-sponsored by Asia America Symphony Orchestra, COLD TOFU Improv, East West Players, Go For Broke National Education Center, Japan America Society, Japanese Chamber of Commerce of Southern California, Japanese American Citizens League - Pacific Southwest District, Japanese American National Museum, Keiro Senior Health Services, Little Tokyo Business Association, Little Tokyo Roots, Little Tokyo Senior Residents Association, Little Tokyo Service Center, METRO, Mikawaya, Nikkei Interfaith Council, Nisei Week Foundation, Pacific Commerce Bank, The Robert Group, and the U.S.-Japan Council. (confirmed list at time of release)

Honorary Co-Chairs: Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard, State Senator Kevin deLeon, Assembly Speaker John A. Perez, Assemblyman Warren Furutani, and Councilwoman Jan Perry.

For more information, visit www.jaccc.org

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