Volunteers clean up First Street North during Little Tokyo Sparkle 2022.
Little Tokyo Sparkle is set for Saturday, May 18, starting at 9 a.m. at the JACCC Plaza, 244 S. San Pedro St.
LT Sparkle is also known as Nancy Kikuchi Volunteer Day, honoring the late Nancy Kikuchi, who tirelessly volunteered for many Little Tokyo organizations. “Volunteering is a ‘do good, feel good’ activity,” she would say. She would be thanking you for volunteering although she herself would probably be volunteering to organize Little Tokyo Sparkle!
Little Tokyo holds a special place in all our hearts. Its history is nearly 140 years — many of our grandparents lived, shopped and socialized here, and early Japanese immigrants created a vibrant community only to have it annihilated during World War II. It was resurrected from the dust and sand of concentration camps.
It has gone through many changes — evacuation, eminent domain, redevelopment — the changes continue today.
Nonprofit organizations, community groups, temples and churches, cultural and arts organizations, small businesses, residents and visitors today define Little Tokyo’s ever-changing character. And as evidenced by the community’s participation, Little Tokyo has special meaning and is a special place for all of us.
Let’s take pride in its struggles and beautify our unique place in Los Angeles. It is this history, our pride and continued struggle to maintain and redefine Little Tokyo that will continue its legacy for future generations. Your participation is a part of that endeavor. Thank you!
You can sign up at: https://www.littletokyosparkle.com