When was the first time you heard of Fred Korematsu? Feel free to share your experiences and feelings, I can’t wait to read them!
President Bill Clinton presents the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Fred Korematsu in a White House ceremony on January 15, 1998. Source: William J. Clinton Presidential Library
“In the long history of our country's constant search for justice, some names of ordinary citizens stand for millions of souls. Plessy, Brown, Parks … to that distinguished list, today we add the name of Fred Korematsu.”
I have heard about Fred Korematsu, but was never formally taught about him and his legacy in school. Korematsu and many other AAPI activists should be included in the US education system!
I first learned about Korematsu’s life and legacy when I read Farewell to Manzanar, a true story of Jeanne Wakatsuki’s life growing up with her family in the internment camps. It’s a very honest account, and devastating to read, but it’s such a valuable resource to start with to learn about the atrocities the U.S. committed against Japanese-Americans. Fred Korematsu was one of the first people who resisted internment, and worked fiercely to protect the civil liberties of all. Happy Fred Korematsu Day!
I have heard about Fred Korematsu, but was never formally taught about him and his legacy in school. Korematsu and many other AAPI activists should be included in the US education system!
Yes, I agree, Chris! I had the same experience. The US education system is too Eurocentric...
Very thankful for AAPI activists like Fred Korematsu!
Paving the way for us!
Happy Fred Korematsu Day! There is a PBS film about Fred Korematsu, Of Civil Wrongs And Rights.
Thank you for the rec!
I first learned about Korematsu’s life and legacy when I read Farewell to Manzanar, a true story of Jeanne Wakatsuki’s life growing up with her family in the internment camps. It’s a very honest account, and devastating to read, but it’s such a valuable resource to start with to learn about the atrocities the U.S. committed against Japanese-Americans. Fred Korematsu was one of the first people who resisted internment, and worked fiercely to protect the civil liberties of all. Happy Fred Korematsu Day!
I really appreciate your insight, Eleni! Thank you for sharing that novel with me, I'll be adding it to my to-read list.