CHAIRMAN ASKING FOR CO-OPERATION WITH ARMY HEADS

Federal Authorities Kindly In Course; Promise Given To Soften Hardship

COUNCIL NEEDING HELP

By JAMES Y. SAKAMOTO
(Chairman, Emergency Defense Council, JACL Seattle)

We have been at war for three months. I am afraid many of us are not yet fully aware of war's implications.

We are on the verge of the most important period in the history of the Americans of Japanese descent. Yet many of us are sitting by complacently, with a pleasure-as-usual attitude.

It is good sense to be calm and sit tight, but that does not mean to be unaware of the problems that face all of us. Be prepared for anything. Anything is possible in war.

Do Not Realize Problems

Too many of us, I am afraid, do not realize the magnitude of the problems facing us in the issue of evacuation. At this writing nothing is definite except the outline of designated areas. But if reports of wholesale movement by sections are correct, it will be the greatest mass movement of populations in the United States since the end of the period of westward migration.

We have been in constant touch with the government officials on this problem. We have their assurances of every support. They have been kindly and understanding. They admit that a problem of this sort cannot be solved without a great deal of mental hardship, but they have pledged their best to avoid as much of the physical hardship as possible.

Must Help Ourselves

Yet, it is not right to throw the entire burden on the government. If we expect help, we must first help ourselves. We must wake up to the facts and extend aid to the less fortunate among ourselves. There are many of them. The second generation must guide and help their elders.

We have set up the machinery of the Emergency Defense Council of the Japanese American Citizens League. A mere handful of workers are putting in long hours to ease the shock of readjustment for the Japanese. They need assistance. You can serve your people and your nation by offering your assistance.

Must Cheerfully Obey Orders

If and when the orders come, they will be from the Army. They must be obeyed. Do so cheerfully and co-operatively, for that is in the best interests of the United States.

This is a time when tempers may run short and nerves are on edge. Try to be kindly and neighborly, especially to the older generation. We are all in the same difficulties, and our burdens will be that much easier to bear if we can help lighten each others' loads.

The Japanese American Citizens League office is open to serve you. Take your questions there. But remember, too, that their resources are limited, and they need your help to take care of a mountain of work to be done.

General Rules To Follow

Let these be your guides for the uncertain future:

1. Be prepared for anything.
2. Be neighborly.
3. Co-operate with the government and your leaders.
4. Don't sell out at a sacrifice. The government is making plans to help you take care of your property.
5. Anticipate your problems and prepare yourselves accordingly.
6. Volunteer your assistance to the JACL.

If we do these things we will be able to ride out a difficult storm. We will be scoring a triumph for the American way of life.