On May 9th, educators and community leaders from across Orange County gathered not just to learn—but to connect. What began as a panel discussion on the historic Mendez v. Westminster case became something deeper: a reminder that our stories, struggles, and successes are woven together. From Japanese American and Mexican American families to Jewish, Black, and white allies, history revealed a powerful truth—we are kindred spirits, interconnected by a shared pursuit of justice and dignity for all.

A powerful family backstory that helped shape the landmark 1947 Mendez v. Westminster school desegregation case, now a required part of California's K–12 curriculum, holds vital lessons for today’s classrooms.

March is Women’s History Month and a great time to share the many contributions of women throughout history. Of course, we wouldn’t need a special month if these women had been acknowledged throughout history, right?  This is particularly true for the woman I’m highlighting in my March blog: Mitsuye Endo.

I am my father’s daughter and many who knew him say that I have his smile and his knack for making friends!  Well, I inherited much, much more from my dad and this month, I’m honoring him with some of my favorite memories of my dear dad.