[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 97 (Wednesday, July 14, 2004)]
[Senate]
[Page S8117]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     IN MEMORIAM OF MARY MIYASHITA

 Mrs. BOXER. Mr. President, I share with my colleagues, the 
memory of a remarkable woman, Mary Miyashita of Whittier, CA, who died 
on Sunday, April 25, 2004. Mary was 83 years old.
  Mary Miyashita was born in Los Angeles. She grew up in a traditional 
Japanese household until she was sent as a young woman to internment 
camps in Santa Anita, CA and Gila, AZ during World War II. While in 
camp, Mary met Eleanor Roosevelt and was introduced to the work of the 
Quaker organization: The American Friends Service Committee. This 
organization helped obtain early release of college-aged persons from 
camp. These life-changing events later gave Mary the drive and 
persistence to become involved in social causes and politics.
  Mary was an extraordinary woman, with great devotion to her family, 
her community and our Nation. Mary was a beloved wife and mother. She 
was admired by many for her strength and conviction. Mary was dedicated 
to making a difference in the world, and she did. Mary had great 
passion and believed in basic kindness to all humans.
  Mary's work in politics helped shape our Nation. Throughout the 
years, she was involved in many important history changing causes, such 
as civil rights movements, peace demonstrations, education and literacy 
drives. She was a founding member of the first Asian Pacific Caucus, 
and a founding member of the Women and Children's Crisis Shelter in 
Whittier. Mary was also a member of the executive boards of the League 
of Women Voters, Meals on Wheels, Women for Peace, Whittier Area Fair 
Housing Committee and the Whittier Area Education Study Council.
  Mary Miyashita is survived by her husband, Kazuo and her three 
children, son, David Miyashita, and daughters, Jean and Carole 
Miyashita, and son-in-law, John Martinez. She was an exceptional 
individual.
  I am proud to recognize the legacy of Mary Miyashita. We can take 
comfort in knowing that future generations will benefit from her 
courage, her vision and her leadership.

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