Jimi Yamaichi: Architect of Memory and Community

Jimi Yamaichi (October 27, 1922-May 12, 2018) dedicated his life to preserving Japanese American history, enriching arts, and fostering community bonds.

Jimi Yamaichi holds a brick from Tule Lake inside a recreated barracks at the Japanese American Museum of San Jose. Photo by Gabriela Rossner.

Born on October 27, 1922, in San Jose, California, Jimi Yamaichi was a Nisei whose life was profoundly shaped by his experiences during World War II. At 19, he and his family were forcibly relocated to internment camps, including the Pomona Assembly Center, Heart Mountain, and Tule Lake Segregation Center. At Tule Lake, he became the head of the construction crew, imparting carpentry skills to fellow internees, some of whom later secured union positions thanks to his mentorship. 

After the war, Yamaichi faced and overcame racial discrimination, becoming the first Asian carpenter accepted by the local union hiring hall in San Jose.  His commitment to preserving Japanese American history led him to co-found the Japanese American Museum of San Jose (JAMsj), where he served as director and curator. He meticulously recreated a barracks room from Tule Lake, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into the internment experience.

Beyond his preservation efforts, Yamaichi was instrumental in educating the public about the injustices faced by Japanese Americans during the war. He actively participated in the Tule Lake Pilgrimage Committee, guiding tours and sharing personal narratives to ensure that such histories were neither forgotten nor repeated.

In honor of his dedication to cultural arts and community, the Nikkei Matsuri Festival established the Jimi Yamaichi Japanese Cultural Arts Scholarship. This award recognizes high school juniors or seniors engaged in Japanese or Hawaiian cultural arts, emphasizing Yamaichi’s belief in nurturing the next generation’s appreciation for their heritage. 

Jimi Yamaichi’s legacy is a testament to resilience, cultural preservation, and community empowerment. His life’s work continues to inspire and educate, ensuring that the stories of the past illuminate the path forward.