Rep. Patsy Mink
2135 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, DC 20515
Web: www.house.gov/mink/
Phone: (202) 225-4906
Fax: (202) 225-4987
District Office: Honolulu
District Phone: (808) 541-1986
September 20, 2000
The Honorable Bruce Babbitt
Secretary
U.S. Department of Interior
1849 C Street NW
Washington, DC 20240
Dear Secretary Babbitt:
I have received numerous letters from concerned citizens regarding the controversy surrounding the Masaoka creed to be inscribed on our National Japanese Memorial which is scheduled to be unveiled in November of 2000.
I am certain you are aware of the issue. Many who oppose the inscription have written you and others in your department. They have not been responded to regarding their deep consternation over what should be a proud and deserving moment for Japanese Americans.
The unforgettable experience of alienation, racism, and injustice suffered by Japanese Americans must not be further exacerbated by the neglect of your department to look seriously at the reasons why many believe the Memorial fails to accommodate their views. As of July 26, 2000, 980 signatures have been gathered in protest of this inscription.
The JACL creed has distinct negative connotations which are alarming to many survivors and families of survivors who have memories that remain indelible in their minds. The words themselves appear patriotic, even benign. But to overlook the tension being caused by this controversy would be a travesty.
There are studies that have verified this matter. One such would be The Lim Report, an investigative study written in 1990 by Deborah K. Lim, initiated by the JACL, the very organization Masaoka led. The JACL felt it was imperative to know where Masaoka and the activities of JACL stood with the internees. The report revealed grave mistrust and questions that remain.
Those who have written to you and others in your department deserve a response. Thank you very much.
Very truly yours,
Patsy T. Mink
Member of Congress