"The J-Word" 
 Building Bridges Through Dialog & Understanding

Leaders and representatives of the Asian Pacific American community and AJC (American Jewish Committee) met July 16, 2010, in Seattle, Washington, to discuss culturally sensitive language conflicts regarding the long-term, historical and controversial usage and connotations of the “J-word” from two distinct cultures; Jewish and Japanese American, and to come to a proactive resolution and joint statement.

By “J-word,” we refer to the various permutations of the term “Jap,” “JAP,” or “J.A.P” and the unfortunate implications for people in the Japanese and Jewish communities.

Usage of “J-word” as a Jewish characterization: The acronym J.A.P. is understood to mean “Jewish American Princess.” It is widely considered a deprecating stereotype and prejudicial pejorative characterization of Jewish women and is oftentimes the basis for anti-Semitic and sexist jokes both inside and outside the Jewish community and in popular culture   Usage of the term is not intended to refer to or insult Japanese people, however, the impact of the usage may result in that effect.

Japanese American and Asian American view of “J-word:”

The word “Jap” has a long and bitter history that is meant to disparage and demean. This expression of both contempt and hate cripples the spirit of an entire ethnic group. During World War II engagement with Japan, the term "Jap," used in newspapers, motion pictures, propaganda and public signage incited hateful racist sentiments and rationalized the unconstitutional imprisonment of 120,000 persons of Japanese ancestry on the West coast. More than two-thirds of these people were American citizens and the others were denied the path to citizenship. To those interned in these American concentration camps, the term is a painful reminder of injustice, denigration and attacks they continue to endure.

Therefore, between the Jewish and Asian Pacific American communities, we unanimously agreed that we find the use of the “J-word” in any form – with or without punctuation marks, to be reprehensive, disrespectful and insulting.

In solidarity with one another, we pledge to speak out in opposition and to take action to stop the usage of the “J-word” in its various forms by:

• Making intentional efforts to create awareness of the negative impact of the “J-word” in any form.

• Taking appropriate action when we encounter usage of the term to challenge, inform and educate that the “J-word” is unacceptable.

• Creating teachable moments to educate the public and future generations to eliminate use of the “J-word," especially in those communities where the Japanese American experience and presence is not well known.

• Posting and promoting this pledge to mobilize commitment from others both within and outside our respective communities. This campaign will include public statements, emailing and editorializing about this joint statement and educating people through Internet links and resources. We will encourage joint opportunities with other social justice groups, including local and national levels of leadership.

Co-Chair: Bettie Luke, Asian Pacific American community and Asian Pacific Islander Coalition of King County (APIC)