There are several committees in the district that focus attention to areas of interest to our members and district as a whole. It is at the committee level that JACL's work becomes most effective. The committees work out the details of such things as how a public policy issue affects people and makes recommendations to the District Council to what positions it should take. Committees also bring together people from many chapters to work as one.
- Civil Rights - The Civil Rights Caucus was formed as a way to bring together JACL members interested in advocating for civil and human rights. In addressing issues affecting the Asian Pacific Islander American community, the Civil Rights Caucus has held issue forums on Proposition 209 and on gay and lesbian rights. It has also addressed the issues of hate crimes and immigrant rights. The Civil Rights Caucus meets every month. New members are always welcome. Info: crc@jaclpsw.org.
- Leadership Development - The committee develops and promotes leadership to members of the district. The JACL/OCA Washington, D.C. Leadership Conference is co-sponsored with the Organization of Chinese Americans. This conference features meetings with legislative, representative, workshops on our national political structure, and media advocacy. The PSW district has participated in several internship programs including the California Asian-American Student Intership Coalition (CASIC) through the California Japanese American Community Leadership Council (CJACLC), Nikkei Community Internship Program (NCI) as well as the Venice-Culver JACL Chapter's Francis Kitagawa Internship Program.
- Youth
- Education - The education committee develops educational material for primary and secondary school curriculum along with the National JACL Education committee. The district sponsors workshops for educators to use the National JACL Education Curriculum Guide to teach the Japanese American experience to students. The Education Committee also assists members in gaining scholarship information.
- Awards Dinner - Started in 1997, the Pacific Southwest District Council has hosted a fundraising dinner with its proceeds going to youth related programs. The dinner committee is always looking for new members and has monthly meetings. If you are interested in joining, please contact the PSW Regional office.
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Golf Tournament - In 2007, PSW hosted its second annual golf tournament. Held at the beautiful San Juan Capistrano Golf Course, this event brought together serious and weekend golfers. Proceeds from the event helped to further develop the youth and leadership programs in the district. This committee meets regularly and is always looking for new members. Sponsorship opportunities are available. Keep checking to see information regarding next year's tournament. See 2007 Results.