The JCCH is built upon the Kachikan values that the Issei pioneers brought with them from Japan. Over the generations, these values have been passed down in our community and ties us to the shared values of our neighbors, regardless of ethnicity.
Kōkō
Filial Piety
Kōkō means dutiful obedience to parents. The obligation to “honor thy father and mother” continues throughout one’s life.
On
Debt of Gratitude
On means obligation, being indebted to someone for their kindness, favor, care, and help. It is a debt of gratitude that is lifelong.
Gaman
Quiet Endurance
Gaman means the acceptance of and ability to deal with life’s adversities. It is maintaining one’s dignity and honor with diligence and perseverance.
Ganbari
Persistence
Ganbari means persistence, steadfastness to a purpose or course of action.
Shikata Ga Nai
Acceptance with Resignation
Shikata-ga-nai is acceptance of fate circumstances that cannot be helped. Japanese believe that when there is no other alternative, one must accept one’s fate and circumstances, no matter how unfortunate.
Kansha
Gratitude
Kansha means gratitude, being grateful or thankful by expressing one’s appreciation.
Chūgi
Loyalty
Chūgi means loyalty, the consistent adherence to a cause, principle, or person. Chūgi is defined as faithfulness, truth, and fidelity.
Sekinin
Responsibility
Sekinin means responsibility, being accountable or answerable to something within one’s power. It is taking care of self and others, fulfilling obligations, contributing to the community and building a better world.
Haji
Shame
Haji means shame. Japanese culture is predominately one of shame whereas American culture is identified as a guilt culture. Among the Japanese, shame extends to the family and serves as a deterrent for unacceptable behavior. Children of Japanese families are reminded never to bring shame to the family.
Hokori
Pride
Hokori means pride, the antithesis of haji. It is a time of glory or triumph for a person.
Meiyo
Honor
Meiyo means honor, attaining distinction, prestige, fame and dignity.
Giri
Sense of Duty
Giri means moral obligation, repayment of kindness with kindness, or reciprocal gift-giving. Doing good for someone with a sense of duty is considered giri.
Gisei
Sacrifice
Gisei means sacrifice, giving up one thing for another. It is surrendering something of value for the sake of a higher goal.