Bill > SR8616

This resolution acknowledges the historical injustice suffered by Japanese Americans during World War II, specifically focusing on the forced removal and incarceration of over 120,000 people of Japanese ancestry from the West Coast, including 12,000 from Washington State, following Executive Order 9066 issued by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1942. The resolution highlights the swift and devastating impact on Japanese American communities, who were forced to leave their homes, businesses, and personal belongings with little notice, and were initially detained in temporary centers like Camp Harmony before being moved to inland concentration camps. Despite facing racial prejudice and unwarranted suspicion of disloyalty, Japanese Americans demonstrated extraordinary patriotism, with the 442nd Regimental Combat Team earning numerous military honors, including 7 Presidential Unit Citations and 21 Medals of Honor. The resolution also recognizes civil rights activists like Gordon Hirabayashi and notes that a 1982 congressional commission found no military justification for the internment, attributing it to racial prejudice and political failure. Ultimately, the resolution calls for remembering this painful history, honoring Japanese American veterans and survivors, and promoting the message "Nidoto Nai Yoni - Let it Not Happen Again" as a reminder of the importance of protecting civil liberties for all.

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=8616&Year=2025&Initiative=false