The U.S.-Japan Council (USJC) mourns the passing of former U.S. Secretary of Transportation and former U.S. Secretary of Commerce, the Honorable Norman Y. Mineta. Serving on the USJC Board of Councilors since 2010, Mr. Mineta was a longtime member and supporter of the Council. As Vice-Chair of the Board of Councilors, he was passionately dedicated to USJC’s mission and its growth. As a champion for developing Japanese American leaders, Mr. Mineta embodied the values of USJC and was a source of pride and inspiration for the greater Asian American community. Mr. Mineta was a dear friend of the Council whose immeasurable contributions helped strengthen U.S.-Japan relations.
USJC President and CEO Suzanne Basalla said, “Norm Mineta’s personal story, public service career, commitment to the community, and passion for social justice have inspired all of us in the Council. His warmth, humor, and resilience reached us across generations and borders. We will miss him deeply. On behalf of the Council, I would like to extend my condolences to Norm’s family and loved ones. USJC will cherish his incredible legacy.”
Chair of the U.S.-Japan Council and Executive Chairman of Central Pacific Bank Paul Yonamine said, “Norm was such a great and accomplished individual and yet so humble and approachable. His contributions to our country and organizations like the U.S.-Japan Council were tremendous and lasting.”