Thursday, January 25, 2007
Rep. Becerra Introduces Bill to Investigate Japanese Latin American Internment During WWII
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representative Xavier Becerra (CA-31), with Representatives Daniel Lungren (CA-3), Mike Honda (CA-15), and Chris Cannon (UT-03), today introduced the "Commission on Wartime Relocation and Internment of Latin Americans of Japanese Descent Act."
If signed into law, the Commission on Wartime Relocation and Internment of Latin Americans of Japanese Descent Act would create a commission to investigate and study the wartime actions taken by the U.S. government with regard to Japanese Latin Americans during World War II and make recommendations to Congress for any appropriate remedies based on their findings. The commission would be composed of nine members, three each appointed by the president, the speaker of the House, and the president pro tempore of the Senate.
The 1981 Commission on Wartime Relocation and Internment of Civilians report led to the Civil Liberties Act of 1988, which provided an official apology and financial redress to most of the Japanese Americans who were subjected to wrongdoing and confined in U.S. internment camps during World War II. This act was the culmination of a half century of struggle to bring justice to those to whom it was denied.
"With the 26th anniversary of the Commission on Wartime Relocation and Internment comes the reminder that another aspect of this unfortunate part our nation's history has yet to be explored," Rep. Lungren said. "As a member of the original Wartime Relocation Commission, I appreciate this further opportunity to co-sponsor legislation with the purpose of gaining a greater understanding of the wrongs that were committed."
Companion legislation to Rep. Becerra's bill was also introduced today in the United States Senate by Senator Daniel K. Inouye (HI). Joining Sen. Inouye on the bill were Senators Ted Stevens (AK), Lisa Murkowski (AK), Carl Levin (MI), Patrick Leahy (VT), Daniel Akaka (HI), and Robert Bennett (UT).
"The lessons of history," Senator Inouye said, "can be painful. But that pain can also strengthen our nation, and our commitment to its democratic ideals, which include equal justice for all."
"The commission will have an educational purpose as Americans of all ages will be fully informed about this unfortunate episode in our history," Rep. Becerra said. "I thank Senator Inouye for his commitment to continue leading this effort. I especially am grateful to Representatives Lungren, Honda, and Cannon for joining me on this important bill. Furthermore, I commend the nonprofit advocacy organizations Campaign for Justice and the Japanese American Citizens League's efforts for bringing this crucial issue into the light of day."
