June 2024 Newsletter (Correction)
Barrack Relocation & Restoration Now Complete!!
After overcoming numerous setbacks, the restoration of the barracks has finally reached completion. The process for relocating and restoring a barrack began in 2019 after securing generous support of a JACS grant through the National Park Service. After the original barrack intended to be restored was burned down, we were able to secure another one and have finally completed its restoration.
For those that attended the 2023 Poston Pilgrimage, you saw the barrack before any of the restoration began. At that time, the barrack's walls seemed susceptible to outward pressure. However, with the implementation of reinforcements, the barrack is now stable and solid.
Employing an innovative aging formula and methodology developed by Deep Roots Craftsmen, all new wood utilized in the restoration has seamlessly melded with the original materials. Though discernibly new, itharmoniously blends with the aged aesthetic of the historic building, ensuring continuity in its appearance and preserving its authenticity.
Thanks to the unwavering commitment of all involved and the vital support of a JACS grant through the National Park Service, the barracks now stand as a testament to both our past and our dedication to preserving it for future generations.
Help Us Match Our Save America's Treasures Grant: Join Our Go Fund Me Campaign With a Goal of Reaching $100,000 by Oct. 30, 2024
We are thrilled to have been awarded the highly prestigious Save America's Treasures Grant of $297,000 from the National Park Service. Matching funds are required in this same amount to restore the adobe classroom buildings at our Poston Elementary School Site, Camp I, a National Historic Landmark.
What makes Poston unique? Located on the Colorado River Indian Tribes Reservation, Poston is the only former incarceration camp with a school complex that is still standing in its original location. Please help us preserve this precious historic site. Thanks in advance for your contribution to this cause that means so much to us
GoFundMe : https://gofund.me/6c5a251a
Poston Designated as Recipient of Ireicho and Ireihi Gifts Funded by the Mellon Foundation.
Many of you have paid tribute to your family name with a stamp in the Ireicho (Book of Names) currently housed at the Japanese American National Museum in Los Angeles. Now, Poston will have its own Ireicho.
We are proud to announce that Poston has been selected as one of the incarceration sites to receive a Poston specific Ireicho (Book of Names) and the installation of a Ireihi sculptural piece. The board of the Poston Community Alliance and the Tribal Council of the Colorado River Indian Tribes are currently working with Duncan Ryuken Williams, Director of the Irei Project, to plan for the design of the sculptural piece. We anticipate receiving the Ireicho (Book of Names) by December 2025.
The Ireihi (Sculptural Installation) will reflect a symbolic representation of those incarcerated at the Poston concentration camp in a sculptural form. We are honored to be able to work with Duncan Ryuken Williams in this deeply moving project that will inspire us all.
Poston Pilgrimage October 25-26, 2024
Please join us for our 2024 Poston Pilgrimage. A description of events, schedule, keynote speaker and workshops is outlined on our website here. To register, visit our Eventbrite page.
Eventbrite https://www.eventbrite.com/e/poston-pilgrimage-2024-tickets-904398378897
Website : https://www.postonpreservation.org/pilgrimage
In Memoriam Photos
After our banquet, we will be showing photos in remembrance and to honor those who where incarcerated at Poston. If you would like a family member included, please submit your photo. Include birth and death year and camp address such as Camp I, Block 21, 11-D. The charge for each photo is $50.00.
Please send photo to postonalliancel@gmail.com. Send payment via Paypal to postonalliancel@gmail.com or send payment and photo to:
Poston Community Alliance 1902 Strayhorn Rd. Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
The Blue Jay Film wins the Audience Choice Award
We are excited to announce that The Blue Jay has won the Audience Choice Award in the Trendsetter Shorts category. Many thanks to all those who voted. We are now in the second round with judges judging. We will keep you posted.