A mural at Johnson Middle School and the Pictures of Belonging exhibit at the Smithsonian both tell powerful stories through art. Featuring 80 years of work by Japanese American artists Miki Hayakawa, Hisako Hibi, and Miné Okubo, the exhibit traces their lives from pre-WWII to post-camp, capturing resilience and belonging through every brushstroke.

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.