Toronto NAJC launches fundraiser to save Moriyama-designed Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre

A fundraiser has been started in an effort to save the original Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre (JCCC) located at 123 Wynford Drive in Toronto.

The building, designed by the late Raymond Moriyama, holds deep cultural, historical and architectural significance, and is currently at risk of being almost entirely demolished to make way for condo towers.

“Less than 20 years after Japanese Canadians were unjustly incarcerated during the Second World War, the Japanese Canadian community built the JCCC as a living monument to celebrate their ancestry, regain a sense of self-respect and promote friendship with all Canadians through culture,” reads the GoFundMe page. “Due to a funding shortfall at that time, 75 community members stepped forward and put second mortgages on their homes and businesses to finance the building.”

According to the fundraiser page, the Toronto NAJC has opposed this development and received significant pro bono legal support for over a year.

It noted, however, that to continue contesting the developer’s plan for 123 Wynford Drive at the Ontario Land Tribunal hearing in August, funds must be raised.

The page also noted that the surrounding neighbourhood already has 10,000 homes in the approval pipeline and is in desperate need of a community hub.

“As this Toronto neighbourhood continues to grow, it’s important for residents to have spaces to gather,” reads the page. “The building holds significance not only for the Japanese Canadian community but for all Canadians. It stands as a testament to the roots of multiculturalism and a memorial to the history of Japanese Canadians. This landmark reflects the spirit of friendship that is embodied in the inclusive values that define our nation.”

The fundraiser has raised over $14,000, and is just over $5,000 short of its $20,000 goal.