The Japanese American Association of New York, Inc. (JAA) traces its institutional history to organizations established to support Japanese immigrants and the broader Japanese American community in New York. In 1952, the organization merged with the Japanese American Welfare Society, known in Japanese as the New York Kyosaikai. Following the merger, it adopted the name The Japanese American Association of New York, Inc.

The merger brought together community welfare work, mutual assistance, and efforts to represent and strengthen the Japanese and Japanese American population of New York. At a time when the community was rebuilding its institutions and public presence after World War II, JAA provided an important organizational center for social services, cultural activities, public programs, and community cooperation.

In 1954, JAA published this Manifesto, setting forth the principles and aspirations of the newly reorganized association. The document reflects the organization’s commitment to assisting community members, encouraging mutual understanding, promoting friendship between Japan and the United States, and contributing to the wider civic life of New York.

Today, JAA continues this mission as one of the oldest and most important Japanese American community organizations in the New York area. Its programs serve people of different generations and backgrounds through social welfare services, cultural and educational activities, community events, and the preservation of Japanese American history and heritage.