The Greater Los Angeles Chapter of the Japanese American Citizens League (JACL) is currently accepting applications for its annual scholarship, offering between $500 and $1,000 to eligible students.
Honoring a Legacy of Activism
The scholarship is named in memory of Hana Uno Shepard (1918-1987), a dedicated member of the chapter who actively participated in the redress movement during the late 1970s and early 1980s.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify, applicants must be graduating high school seniors with a strong academic record, be of Japanese descent, reside in either Los Angeles County or Orange County, and come from a single-parent family. The scholarship funds can be used at any accredited college, university, community college, fine arts school, or vocational school.
Despite a name change in 2014 – removing the designation “Singles” – the chapter has maintained its long-standing tradition of providing scholarships to students from single-parent households.
The scholarship aims to provide financial assistance to students while also introducing them to the JACL’s mission and vision: to foster a society that values fairness, equality, and social justice through respect for diversity.
Applications are available through high school counselors and on the GLA JACL website at https://www.glajacl.org/scholarship. Submissions can be made via a Google form on the website, emailed to [email protected], or postmarked by May 1. Questions can be directed to the provided email address.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the scholarship amount?
The scholarship offers between $500 and $1,000.
Who was Hana Uno Shepard?
Hana Uno Shepard was a chapter member who was active in the redress movement during the late 1970s and early 1980s.
Where can I find the application?
Applications can be found at high school counselors’ offices or on the GLA JACL website at https://www.glajacl.org/scholarship.
What role do civil rights organizations play in supporting students pursuing higher education?
