Governor Murphy Establishes January 30 as Fred Korematsu Day of Civil Liberties and the Constitution
01/30/2023
TRENTON Governor Phil Murphy today signed a joint resolution (AJR98) designating January 30 of each year as Fred Korematsu Day of Civil Liberties and the Constitution in New Jersey. The day of recognition honors the legacy of Fred Korematsu, an American civil rights activist of Japanese heritage who fought against the wrongful incarceration of Japanese Americans during World War II.
Governor Murphy was joined today by Dr. Karen Korematsu, daughter of Fred Korematsu and Founder and Executive Director of the Fred T. Korematsu Institute; Ambassador Mikio Mori, Consul General of Japan in New York; Vice-Consul Haruna Maki; legislators; and advocates to commemorate New Jerseys first Fred Korematsu Day of Civil Liberties and the Constitution, which will be celebrated annually on Mr. Korematsus birthday.
In setting aside a day permanently recognizing the contributions of Fred Korematsu, we are recommitting ourselves to our nations ideal of protecting civil liberties,
said Governor Murphy. While we can never rectify the injustices woven into the fabric of our nations history, we can ensure that the stories of those who fought against injustice are never forgotten. History must be our guide for creating a better tomorrow. I am honored to sign this resolution and to put New Jersey firmly, and forever, on the side of Fred Korematsu and all who keep his legacy alive.
AAPI stories often go unknown, unrecognized, and can slip through the cracks of history into the forgotten. New Jersey is doing a great thing by honoring Fred Korematsu and his courageous activism for civil rights not only to celebrate his service and perseverance, but for recognizing a true AAPI civil rights champion,
said Congressman Andy Kim. Fred always stood for what was right and offered his life and story to combat discriminatory policies and xenophobia in our country. May Fred Korematsu Day of Civil Liberties and the Constitution be a lasting recognition of his impact and the many contributions of the AAPI community to our nations story.
With the increasing need for mutual understanding among different communities, it is more important than ever to remember, recognize, and honor Fred Korematsus legacy of civil rights and liberties,
said Ambassador Mikio Mori, Consul General of Japan in New York. His legacy continues to inspire people of all backgrounds and demonstrates the importance of speaking up to fight injustice. Let us remember and celebrate this day to learn from history and commit to never letting hatred and racism dictate our actions again.
{snip}