[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 27 (Tuesday, February 13, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E338]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




RECOGNIZING THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THE 65TH ANNIVERSARY OF EXECUTIVE ORDER 
   9066 AND SUPPORTING AND RECOGNIZING A NATIONAL DAY OF REMEMBRANCE

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                               speech of

                             HON. JOE BACA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, February 12, 2007

  Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, February 19th marks the 65th anniversary of 
one of the greatest mistakes in our country's long history.
  On that day in 1942, President Roosevelt signed Executive Order 9066, 
which authorized the internment of tens of thousands of Japanese 
Americans. This executive order was also applied to a smaller group of 
Americans of both Italian and German descent.
  In recognition of the 65th anniversary of the internments, I rise 
today in strong support of H. Res. 122. This resolution supports the 
goals of the Japanese American, German American, and Italian American 
communities in recognizing a National Day of Remembrance for those 
individuals who were unjustly imprisoned.
  It is said that those who do not learn from history are doomed to 
repeat it. A National Day of Remembrance would increase public 
awareness of the events surrounding the internment of innocent 
Americans and their families.
  While our society has made important strides towards ending racial 
discrimination and inequality in the 65 years since President Roosevelt 
signed Executive Order 9066, we still have a long road ahead of us.
  Just last week, alarming statistics were released on the resurgence 
of the KKK and other hate groups in the United States.
  This is why we must pass this resolution. Our government and our 
leaders cannot make the mistakes of the past. Instead they must guide 
us to a greater understanding and respect for all Americans.

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