Benton County supports Day of Remembrance of Japanese Americans Incarcerated during WWII

Benton County honored the resilience and courage of Japanese Americans who faced injustice during WWII. Watch the proclamation reading, commemorating February 20, 2024, as Benton County’s Day of Remembrance of Japanese Americans Incarcerated during World War II, with Dr. Janet Nishihara from Oregon State University, Jessica Hougen, and Terri Thomas from the Benton County Historical Society.

Eighty-two years ago, Executive Order 9066 stripped Japanese Americans of their liberty, a dark chapter in our history following the attack on Pearl Harbor. Today, we acknowledge the harm done to 120,000 individuals, including those born on American soil. In Benton County, many Japanese American students from Oregon State University were impacted. Within days of Pearl Harbor, 36 of these students penned a letter pledging loyalty to the USA, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to this country despite discrimination.

Let’s remember, learn, and work towards a future where justice and equality prevail.

Watch the proclamation:

Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate based on disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please contact Cory Grogan at 541-745-4468 or pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.