JASSW at the Olympic Hotel in 1929.
Our Mission and History
The mission of JASSW is to promote mutual understanding and friendship between the peoples of Japan and Washington State by providing a forum for the exchange of ideas and information.
JASSW was founded on July 24, 1923 by leaders from Seattle’s business, academic, and diplomatic communities. Except for a brief period during World War II, our organization has remained active in fostering Japan-Washington State trade, business, and cultural activities and maintains a close relationship with key government and private organizations, such as the Consulate-General of Japan and the Japan Business Association of Seattle.
Today, we maintain a diverse membership of Japanese and American corporations and individuals from throughout the state and provide varied programs that build positive U.S.-Japan relations. The Society is one of 38 independent members of the National Association of Japan-America Societies.
Until the 1980s, JASSW was run entirely by volunteers; today, our staff consists of full-time professionals and our Board of Directors is headed by an elected Chair and composed of local and state leaders in business, government, education, and the arts.
