Audacious, not blithe

First person account

Erica Naito-Campbell, author of “Portland’s audacious champion,” shared some insights on her famous grandfather, Bill Naito, at a Pearl District Neighborhood Association in January. Naito was an optimist, exuding cheerful pragmatism that endeared him to a generation of civic leaders and activists.

But Naito-Campbell said all was not light-hearted and calm within. Naito never forgot the offense to himself and his people when the United States interned West Coast residents of Japanese descent during World War II. He overcame it with the spirit of a samurai warrior, masking the pain he felt with a smile and positive energy. Achieving success for himself and his community would prove his worthiness, and it did. But it was never easy.

I read the book, but the lecture added something that will stay with me

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