Observed on January 30, the Fred Korematsu Day of Civil Liberties and the Constitution is celebrated in California and an increasing number of states. This day pays tribute to the birthday of Fred Korematsu, a prominent Japanese-American civil rights activist renowned for his resistance against the internment of Japanese Americans. Additionally, it serves as a recognition of American civil liberties and rights outlined in the Constitution of the United States. This historic day stands as the first in U.S. history named after an Asian American.

History and Significance: Fred Korematsu was born on January 30, 1919, in Oakland, California, to Japanese immigrant parents. In the aftermath of the attack on Pearl Harbor, President Franklin D. Roosevelt issued Executive Order 9066 in 1942, which authorized the forced removal and internment of over 120,000 Japanese Americans, most of whom were U.S. citizens. Korematsu, who was 23 years old at the time, refused to comply with the order and went into hiding to avoid internment. He was eventually arrested, convicted of violating military orders, and sent to an internment camp.

Korematsu challenged the constitutionality of the internment order, taking his case all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court in 1944. In a controversial decision, the Supreme Court ruled against him, upholding the internment as a "military necessity." Despite the setback, Korematsu continued to fight for civil rights throughout his life. Decades later, in 1983, his conviction was overturned in a federal court after it was revealed that the government had withheld critical evidence during the original trial, which showed that Japanese Americans were not a threat to national security.

Korematsu's courage and determination have made him a symbol of the fight for civil liberties and the protection of constitutional rights. In 2010, California became the first state to officially recognize January 30th as Fred Korematsu Day of Civil Liberties and the Constitution. Other states, including Hawaii, Virginia, and Florida, have since followed suit, recognizing the day as an important occasion to honor Korematsu's legacy and educate the public about civil rights and social justice.

Key Themes of Korematsu Day:

• Civil Liberties: Korematsu Day emphasizes the importance of protecting individual rights and freedoms, even in times of crisis. It serves as a reminder that civil liberties must be upheld for all, regardless of race, ethnicity, or national origin.
• Justice and Equality: The day highlights the ongoing struggle for justice and equality in America, recognizing the challenges faced by marginalized communities and the need for vigilance in defending their rights.
• Constitutional Rights: Korematsu Day underscores the significance of the U.S. Constitution as a safeguard for individual liberties and the rule of law. It encourages reflection on the role of the judiciary in upholding constitutional principles.
• Racial Discrimination: The day serves as a solemn reminder of the devastating impact of racial discrimination and the importance of resisting prejudice and injustice in all forms.

Ways to Celebrate Korematsu Day:

• Educate Yourself: Take time to learn more about Fred Korematsu's life and the history of Japanese American internment during World War II. Read books, watch documentaries, or attend lectures that provide insight into this dark chapter in American history.
• Share His Story: Spread awareness of Fred Korematsu's legacy by sharing his story with friends, family, and colleagues. Use social media, blogs, or community forums to highlight the significance of Korematsu Day and the lessons it teaches about civil liberties.
• Engage in Civic Action: Honor Korematsu's legacy by getting involved in civic activities that promote justice and equality. This could include volunteering with civil rights organizations, participating in social justice campaigns, or advocating for policies that protect individual rights.
• Attend Events: Look for events in your community that commemorate Korematsu Day, such as panel discussions, film screenings, or educational workshops. Many schools, libraries, and cultural organizations host events to honor the day and encourage public engagement.
• Reflect on Civil Liberties: Take a moment to reflect on the importance of civil liberties in your own life and in society as a whole. Consider the ways in which you can contribute to the protection and promotion of these rights for all people.
• Visit a Museum or Memorial: If possible, visit a museum or memorial dedicated to the history of Japanese American internment or civil rights. The Japanese American National Museum in Los Angeles and the Fred T. Korematsu Institute offer valuable resources for learning about this history.
• Support Legal Advocacy: Consider donating to or volunteering with organizations that focus on legal advocacy and the protection of civil rights, such as the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) or the Fred T. Korematsu Institute.

Notable Quotes by Fred Korematsu:

• “If you have the feeling that something is wrong, don’t be afraid to speak up.”
• “Protest, but not with violence. Practice respect for others and treat people as you would want to be treated.”
• “I’d like to see the government say that they have learned from the past mistakes. They would like to see the people learn from the past, too.”

Interesting Facts About Fred Korematsu and His Legacy:

• Presidential Medal of Freedom: In 1998, Fred Korematsu was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation's highest civilian honor, by President Bill Clinton in recognition of his lifelong commitment to civil rights.
• Legal Precedent: Although Korematsu’s original Supreme Court case was never formally overturned, it is widely regarded as a cautionary example of judicial failure in protecting civil liberties during times of national crisis.
• Educational Impact: The Fred T. Korematsu Institute, established in 2009, continues to educate people about civil liberties and social justice through educational programs, curriculum development, and public events.

Conclusion: Korematsu Day is a powerful reminder of the importance of defending civil liberties and standing up against injustice. Fred Korematsu's courageous fight against the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II serves as an enduring example of the need to protect constitutional rights for all individuals, especially in times of fear and uncertainty. On January 30th, take the time to honor Korematsu's legacy by educating yourself and others, engaging in civic action, and reflecting on the ongoing struggle for justice, equality, and the protection of civil liberties in America.