Bridging local communities to the world through Japanese language and culture.
SJA started as Save Japanese in Arlington in May 2018, after the Arlington Public School System (APS) announced its intention to end the Japanese language program. SJA launched a student-led grassroots campaign, organizing a petition, and making an appeal at the school board meeting. The Japanese program was reinstated at all high schools in the county that school year. As of 2021, about 100 students are enrolled in Japanese classes at three high schools in APS.
To continue our grassroots promotion of Japanese language and culture in Arlington, SJA, now with a new name, Study Japanese in Arlington, became a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization in September 2018. We continue to create free Japanese language and cultural opportunities for residents of the DC area.
Outreach & Festivals
SJA hosts at least one larger festival per year, seasonal cultural events, and a college info series.
Education Programs
SJA runs Japanese language classes, provides information on resources for AP Japanese students, and offers origami classes.
