February 19th is the anniversary of the Day of Remembrance, the day in 1942 when Executive Order 9066 requiring the internment of all Americans of Japanese ancestry was issued. Students at the then Broadway High School (BHS) were included in the internees. Each year, Seattle Central recognizes this significant event and pays tribute to the BHS students.
The Seattle Colleges 2022 Japanese American Day of Remembrance
After 80 years - Where Are We Now?
Japanese American Day of Remembrance on FEB 17th, 2022
On February 17, 2022, we mark the 80th anniversary of the signing of Executive Order 9066, the act of President Franklin D. Roosevelt that led to the forced removal and incarceration of over 120,000 Japanese Americans during World War II. This year's event features Frank Abe, author of We Hereby Refuse and Erin Shigaki, a community artist.
The importance of remembering this day in American history has never been more critical. We are reminded of the fragility of civil liberties in times of crisis, and the importance of remaining vigilant in protecting the rights and freedoms of all. With the rise of xenophobia as anti-Asian hate, anti-Semitism, continued Islamophobia and other anti-immigrant violence, we come together to say, "Never Again is Now"!
Here is a list of events shared by panelists and attendees at the Seattle Colleges 2022 event:
The Fountain in the Atrium was created by George Tsutakawa, a prominent, Seattle-born sculptor of Japanese descent.
Though Tsutakawa himself served in the military during World War II, many of his family members were imprisoned in internment camps.
Today many of his sculptures and fountains are installed throughout Seattle.
