Honorable Gavin Newsom, Governor
1303 10th Street, Suite 1173
Sacramento, CA. 95814
SUBJECT: AB 279 (Muratsuchi) URGE YOUR SIGNATURE
Dear Governor Newsom:
The Nikkeijin Kai of Colorado continues its support of AB 279 as it awaits your signature. Our organization wholeheartedly supports SOS in its actions to insure the safety of our seniors as well as continuing the culturally appropriate services previously assured to them.
We were extremely disappointed that the eviction of 80, 90, and 100 year old Japanese American seniors living in the Sakura Intermediate Care Facility (ICF) was not halted and consequently, the unique and only culturally appropriate ICF for Japanese Americans in the nation has closed its doors.
Even more tragic is the transfer trauma that the seniors experience as a result of the eviction and the risk of catching the Delta increases compared to remaining at the Sakura ICF safely which has been 100% COVID free throughout the pandemic. We understand that Kei-Ai LA and Kei-Ai South Bay Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNF) have the highest COVID death toll west of the Mississippi, and Pacifica Companies has allowed COVID transfer patients from other hospitals or facilities into the Sakura Gardens Assisted Living facilities and the death toll has increased.
With the passage of AB 279, seniors at the Kei-Ai LA and Kei-Ai South Bay Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) will avoid any possible eviction or forced transfer, and culturally appropriate programs and services will have to be maintained as part of the Condition of Sales requirement during the pandemic or during the state of emergency.
Many members of our organization maintain business as well as family relations within California due to our “relocation” during WWII. We follow California politics closely and applaud your recent win over the recall.
Asian Pacific Islanders continue to support the progressive policies that you and your administration have put forth during your tenure as Governor. We urge you to sign AB 279 immediately.
Sincerely,
Marge Taniwaki
Board Member
Nikkeijinkai of Colorado
Serving the JA Community since 1907
