Venice Japanese American Memorial Monument

Venice Japanese American Memorial Monument Los Angeles: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction: History and Significance

The Venice Japanese American Memorial Monument (VJAMM) stands at the historic intersection of Venice and Lincoln Boulevards in Los Angeles, California, serving as a profound testament to a pivotal chapter in American history. This monument commemorates the forced removal and incarceration of over 1,000 Japanese Americans from the Venice, Santa Monica, and Malibu communities during World War II, following Executive Order 9066. Many of those affected were American-born citizens, uprooted in April 1942 and sent to the Manzanar War Relocation Authority camp—a defining violation of civil liberties in the United States (venicejamm.org; venicechamber.net; Rafu Shimpo).

The VJAMM is more than a physical marker; it is a living educational resource and a call to safeguard civil rights for all. Its bold black granite obelisk, inspired by the Manzanar cemetery monument, features detailed inscriptions, personal testimonies, and a map tracing the journey from Venice to Manzanar. Its creation is the result of persistent community advocacy, uniting students, educators, business owners, and civil rights leaders.

Accessible 24/7 and free to all, the VJAMM invites visitors to reflect on the resilience of Japanese Americans and the enduring importance of constitutional protections. Its location alongside other cultural landmarks, such as the Venice Beach Boardwalk and Venice Hongwanji Buddhist Temple, makes it a focal point for exploring Los Angeles’ diverse history.

This guide offers comprehensive insights for visitors—covering the monument’s history, cultural significance, design, community involvement, travel tips, accessibility, and nearby attractions.

Introduction
The Forced Removal and Executive Order 9066
The Japanese American Community: Past and Present
Creation and Symbolism of the Monument
Design and Features
Dedication and Community Involvement
Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets, Accessibility
Special Events and Educational Programming
Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Visuals and Media
Related Resources and Further Reading
Conclusion and Visitor Takeaways
References

The Forced Removal and Executive Order 9066

Following the attack on Pearl Harbor in December 1941, anti-Japanese sentiment intensified across the U.S. In February 1942, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed Executive Order 9066, authorizing the forced removal and incarceration of more than 120,000 Japanese Americans from the West Coast (venicechamber.net). Venice, Santa Monica, and Malibu were among the communities most deeply affected.

In April 1942, approximately 1,000 Japanese Americans—many of them U.S. citizens—were ordered to gather at the northwest corner of Venice and Lincoln Boulevards, now the site of the VJAMM. Here, families boarded buses bound for Manzanar War Relocation Authority Camp, over 220 miles away (venicejamm.org; pacificcitizen.org). The process was abrupt and traumatic, with families given just days to sell property and pack. The consequences were devastating, resulting in lost homes, businesses, and emotional distress (venicepaparazzi.com).

The Japanese American Community: Before and After 1942

Japanese immigrants established vibrant communities in Venice and West Los Angeles by the early 20th century, creating institutions such as the Venice Hongwanji Buddhist Temple and the Venice Japanese Community Center (venicewlajacl.org). The forced removal fractured these communities, and although many families never returned post-war, those who did demonstrated remarkable resilience, rebuilding lives and reestablishing roots in the area (venicejamm.org).

Creation and Symbolism of the Monument

The VJAMM was born out of local activism in 2009, led by Venice High School student Scott Pine and teacher Phyllis Hayashibara. Their efforts catalyzed the formation of the Venice Japanese American Memorial Monument Committee, which brought together community members, businesses, and organizations (venicechamber.net).

Funded by grassroots efforts and grants—including a National Park Service matching grant and annual fundraisers led by Esther Chaing of Hama Sushi—the project culminated in the dedication of the monument on April 27, 2017 (venicepaparazzi.com; pacificcitizen.org). The obelisk’s front inscription urges ongoing vigilance in defending constitutional rights, stating:

“MAY THIS VENICE JAPANESE AMERICAN MEMORIAL MONUMENT REMIND US TO BE FOREVER VIGILANT ABOUT DEFENDING OUR CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS. THE POWERS OF GOVERNMENT MUST NEVER AGAIN PERPETUATE AN INJUSTICE AGAINST ANY GROUP BASED SOLELY ON ETHNICITY, GENDER, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, RACE, OR RELIGION.”

Design and Features

Physical Description and Symbolism

The monument is a nine-foot-six-inch tall, 12,500-pound black granite obelisk placed prominently at the intersection of Venice and Lincoln Boulevards (Rafu Shimpo). Its shape mirrors the Manzanar cemetery obelisk, and the polished granite surface holds inscriptions recounting the forced removal, honoring those affected, and acknowledging donors and supporters (Venice JAMM). A map etched onto the back traces the journey from Venice to Manzanar, visually connecting local and national history.

Materials and Durability

Solid black granite was chosen for its dignity and resilience, withstanding the elements and even accidental damage over the years. Its enduring presence ensures that this history remains accessible for future generations (Rafu Shimpo).

Dedication and Community Involvement

Dedication Ceremony

On April 27, 2017, the VJAMM was officially dedicated in a ceremony featuring community members, officials, and descendants of those incarcerated. Notable speakers included Warren Furutani, Ruth Galanter, Joel Jacinto, Zev Yaroslavsky, and others (Rafu Shimpo). The event emphasized the importance of remembrance and vigilance.

Grassroots Advocacy and Ongoing Support

The monument’s realization was made possible by students, educators, local businesses, and organizations. Venice Community Housing acts as fiscal sponsor, and volunteers from groups such as Venice High School, Venice Hongwanji Buddhist Temple, and Girl Scout Troop 5325 maintain the site (Rafu Shimpo; Yo Venice). Fundraising and commemorative events, like the annual Hama Sushi fundraiser, continue to support the VJAMM (Venice Paparazzi).

Educational Outreach

The VJAMM Committee partners with local schools and organizations to promote civil rights education, integrating the monument into curricula and public programs (Venice JAMM). The monument also features in local art and cultural initiatives.

Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets, Accessibility

Hours: The monument is open to the public 24/7.

Admission: Free; no tickets required.

Location: Northwest corner of Venice Boulevard and Lincoln Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90291.

Accessibility: The site is wheelchair accessible, with paved sidewalks and curb ramps. Inscriptions are legible from both seated and standing positions. Public transportation options are available, and nearby street parking can be found (though it may be limited during peak times).

Special Events and Educational Programming

The VJAMM is a focal point for:

Annual Commemorations: Events such as the annual Day of Remembrance in April feature speeches, performances, and personal narratives (VJAMM events).
Educational Tours: Periodic guided tours are organized by the VJAMM Committee, especially for schools and community groups.
Volunteer Maintenance: Community members are welcome to join regular cleaning and upkeep activities.

Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions

Best Times to Visit: Daytime is recommended for optimal visibility and safety. Spring and fall offer comfortable weather.
Nearby Attractions: Venice Beach Boardwalk, Venice Canals Historic District, Venice Hongwanji Buddhist Temple, Abbot Kinney Boulevard, Santa Monica Pier.
Amenities: Cafes and restaurants are nearby; public restrooms can be found along Venice Boulevard or at Venice Beach.
Safety: The area is generally safe, but visitors should be aware of traffic and surroundings, particularly after dark.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: The monument is accessible 24 hours a day, year-round.

Q: Is there an admission fee or ticket required?
A: No, visiting the monument is free and open to the public.

Q: Is the site wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, the monument and surrounding sidewalks are wheelchair accessible.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Guided tours can be arranged for groups through the VJAMM Committee; check the VJAMM website for details.

Q: Are there special events at the monument?
A: Yes, events such as the annual Day of Remembrance are open to the public. Schedules are posted online.

Q: Is photography allowed?
A: Yes, respectful photography is welcomed.

Visuals and Media

High-quality images and virtual tours are available on the VJAMM website, with descriptive alt text for accessibility. The site also provides interactive maps and educational resources.

Conclusion and Visitor Takeaways

The Venice Japanese American Memorial Monument is not just a historical landmark, but a living call to remember and defend the rights of all. Its creation and continued stewardship exemplify the power of community action and the enduring need for vigilance against injustice. Visitors are encouraged to engage with the monument respectfully, participate in commemorative events, and explore Los Angeles’ broader heritage.

For more information, event updates, or to support preservation efforts, visit the official VJAMM website. Tools like the Audiala app can further enrich your experience with guided audio tours and historical context.

The VJAMM stands as a reminder: safeguarding constitutional rights is a shared responsibility, essential to ensuring that injustices like those endured by Japanese Americans never happen again (venicejamm.org; Rafu Shimpo; venicechamber.net).