[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 25 (Thursday, February 14, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E196]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                           DAY OF REMEMBRANCE

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                          HON. DORIS O. MATSUI

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, February 14, 2008

  Ms. MATSUI. Madam Speaker, on February 19, this Nation will recognize 
the 66th anniversary of the ``Day of Remembrance.'' This was the day in 
1942 that President Roosevelt signed Executive Order 9066, which led to 
the internment of over 120,000 Americans of Japanese ancestry.
  The President's decision to intern Americans was an avoidable 
consequence of racial prejudice and wartime hysteria. The government at 
all levels was blinded by war, and made decisions that were contrary to 
our Constitution. The failure of each branch of government to uphold 
the rights of individuals must be taught so that future generations 
resist succumbing to the politics of fear.
  Because of one of the darkest periods of our Nation's history, we 
learned of the damage that could be done when we let the politics of 
fear cloud our judgment. I hope every American will take this day to 
reaffirm their commitment to our Constitution and the rights and 
protections it guarantees for all of us. This commitment is a way to 
prevent such injustice from ever becoming a reality again.
  Congress has not only recognized a Day of Remembrance, but it also 
supports and funds internment site preservation as the physical 
reminder of past inequality. I look forward to working with my 
colleagues to ensure that future generations will be able to visit the 
internment camps to gain a better understanding of the previous 
generation's experience.
  This year also marks the 20th anniversary of the enactment of the 
Civil Liberties Act of 1988. This act proves what is great about our 
country. When this act passed, our Nation formally acknowledged and 
apologized for violations of civil liberties and constitutional rights 
of over 100,000 interned Americans.
  As we look back on a time in our Nation's history, and how our 
country has responded since, we should have hope for the future. Around 
the world, human rights violations continue unabated. Yet, we can 
combat this by working with a single purpose towards a future wherein 
every person, regardless of race, gender, nationality or creed enjoys 
equal treatment in this world.
  And today, 66 years after the signing of Executive Order 9066, we 
must renew our commitment to bringing these rights to all people.

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