Commission on Wartime Relocation and Internment of Civilians

Definition

The Commission on Wartime Relocation and Internment of Civilians was established in 1980 to evaluate the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II and make recommendations for reparations. This commission played a crucial role in acknowledging the injustices faced by Japanese Americans and advocating for compensation and redress, which is closely linked to broader discussions about resettlement and redress for marginalized communities affected by wartime policies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The commission's report, released in 1983, concluded that the internment of Japanese Americans was based on racial prejudice, war hysteria, and a failure of political leadership.
2. The findings of the commission contributed to the passage of the Civil Liberties Act of 1988, which provided reparations to former internees.
3. The commission highlighted the importance of safeguarding civil liberties during times of national crisis, emphasizing that such actions can lead to discrimination against specific groups.
4. Public hearings were held by the commission to gather testimonies from Japanese American internees, making it one of the first instances where their experiences were officially documented.
5. The establishment of the commission marked a significant shift towards recognizing and addressing historical injustices faced by minority communities in America.

Review Questions

• What was the main purpose of the Commission on Wartime Relocation and Internment of Civilians, and how did it address issues related to wartime policies?
  • The main purpose of the Commission on Wartime Relocation and Internment of Civilians was to assess the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II. It aimed to uncover the truth about the reasons behind their incarceration and its impact on individuals and families. By holding public hearings and gathering testimonies, the commission highlighted systemic racism and wartime hysteria, ultimately advocating for justice and compensation for those affected.
• In what ways did the findings of the commission influence government policy regarding reparations for Japanese Americans?
  • The findings of the commission significantly influenced government policy by validating the grievances of Japanese Americans and highlighting the need for redress. Its report led to increased public awareness about the injustices faced during internment. This culminated in the passage of the Civil Liberties Act of 1988, which not only offered reparations but also formally acknowledged the government's wrongdoing. This legislative action underscored a broader commitment to rectifying historical injustices faced by marginalized groups.
• Critically evaluate how the Commission on Wartime Relocation and Internment of Civilians has shaped contemporary discussions about civil liberties in times of crisis.
  • The establishment and findings of the Commission on Wartime Relocation and Internment of Civilians have profoundly shaped contemporary discussions about civil liberties during crises. By documenting injustices committed against Japanese Americans, it served as a cautionary tale about how fear can lead to discriminatory practices. Today, its legacy prompts ongoing debates about how societies respond to perceived threats without compromising individual rights. The commission's work emphasizes vigilance against racial prejudice in policy-making, serving as a reminder that protecting civil liberties is crucial, especially during times of national emergency.

Related terms

Japanese American Internment: The forced relocation and incarceration of around 120,000 Japanese Americans in camps during World War II, based on fears of espionage and national security.

Redress Movement: A social movement that sought acknowledgment, apology, and reparations for past injustices, particularly focused on the experiences of Japanese Americans during WWII.

Civil Liberties Act of 1988: A United States federal law that granted reparations to surviving Japanese American internees and formally apologized for the injustices they faced during World War II.