Telling America's Stories: Congress Approves Renaming of the Bainbridge Island Japanese American Exclusion Memorial

Background: On September 17, under unanimous consent in the Senate, House bill HR 4751, approving renaming of Bainbridge Island Japanese American Exclusion Memorial received full Congressional approval, after passing last week in the House. The legislation now moves to President Obama’s desk to be signed into law.

Statement by Rob Smith, Northwest Regional Director for the National Parks Conservation Association

“There’s a lot to be shared in a name; words matter, and now the full story of the Japanese-American experience during World War II is properly reflected in the name of this important National Park site. This small change allows bigger things to move forward, including National Park Service signs and brochures to help visitors connect with this special place and our shared history. We thank Representative Kilmer for his leadership on this legislation, and Senators Murray and Cantwell, who brought the legislation to the Senate floor where it received final Congressional approval today – an achievement for our national parks in this Congress.”

Statement by Clarence Moriwaki, President of the Bainbridge Island Japanese American Exclusion Memorial Association

“Officially adding ‘exclusion’ to the name of this beautiful memorial is so vital to completely tell this sad chapter of American history, and hopefully it will inspire everyone to never let fear, hysteria and prejudice deprive anyone of life, liberty and equal protection under the law.”

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About National Parks Conservation Association
Since 1919, the nonpartisan National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) has been the leading voice in safeguarding our national parks. NPCA and its more than one million members and supporters work together to protect and preserve our nation’s natural, historical, and cultural heritage for future generations. For more information, visit www.npca.org.