October 3rd (Thursday) to 5th (Saturday), 2024 – Open to the public
October 6th (Sunday), 2024 – Only open to NAJC Member Organizations

Venues: University of Alberta, various Edmonton venues, and online.
Conference Facilities: Telus Centre (11104 87 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3 – University of Alberta North Campus)

We would like to invite everyone - EJCA members and non-members - to join this year's NAJC conference.

Theme: “Shining a Light on Our Humanity”

Join us in Edmonton for the enlightening “Northern Lights” conference, hosted by the National Association of Japanese Canadians in collaboration with esteemed partners including the EJCA. This annual conference serves as a platform for dialogue, cultural exchange, and advocacy, all under the broad theme of humanity’s interconnectedness.

Highlights include:

• October 3rd (Pre-Conference Day): Enjoy the engaging 2024 Gordon Hirabayashi Annual Lecture by Dr. Pam Sugiman "Deep and Profound Memories: Japanese Canadians, Race and the Second World War Internment" (free, but requires separate registration) 
• October 4th (Human Rights Day): Dive deep into human rights issues with a plenary session led by Dr. Pam Sugiman and participate in concurrent sessions covering Pan Asian Solidarity, Digital Literacy, and more.
• October 4th (Banquet): The day concludes with a special banquet at Lister Hall, featuring an indigenous menu and notable guest speakers.
• October 5th (Arts and Culture Day): Immerse yourself in a day dedicated to Japanese arts with workshops and demonstrations including Kendo, Karate, Kyudo, Iaido, Taiko, Calligraphy and Tea Ceremony.
• October 5th (Izakaya): The cultural experience continues into the evening with an Izakaya Social, offering authentic Japanese cuisine from Mikado and select sake from Sakagami, Calgary.