
Maloy Joins Bipartisan Introduction Of Fred Korematsu Congressional Medal
Congresswoman Celeste Maloy joined Representatives Mark Takano (CA-39), Vince Fong (CA-20), and Young Kim (CA-40) in introducing the Fred Korematsu Congressional Gold Medal Act. This legislation seeks to posthumously award Fred Korematsu with the Congressional Gold Medal in recognition of his dedication to civil rights, patriotism, and the pursuit of justice and equality.
Representative Maloy emphasized Korematsu’s enduring legacy, noting his connection to Utah, where he was unjustly interned during World War II. “The story of Fred Korematsu, a civil rights hero in American history, has been well preserved in Utah where he was unjustly interned for several years,” Maloy stated in a press release. “Fred's life teaches us that our liberties can easily be taken away, and it's up to each generation to fight to protect them. It is only fitting that he receives the highest honor Congress can bestow.”
Fred Korematsu was a prominent civil rights leader who resisted the wrongful internment of over 120,000 Japanese Americans under Executive Order 9066. Despite the personal cost, Korematsu challenged the government’s actions, leading to a controversial 1944 Supreme Court ruling that upheld his conviction for disobeying relocation orders. Evidence later revealed that the government suppressed critical information during the case, and Korematsu’s conviction was overturned in 1983.
“Fred Korematsu stood up for the over 125,000 Japanese Americans, including my parents, who were incarcerated under an unlawful executive order,” said Rep. Takano, who introduced the bill on Korematsu’s 106th birthday.
The legislation marks the first bipartisan effort to recognize Korematsu’s contributions. Reps. Fong and Kim highlighted his courage and the lasting inspiration of his unwavering fight for justice.

Fred Korematsu’s legacy influenced the passage of the Civil Liberties Act of 1988, which acknowledged the injustice of internment and provided reparations. His story serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance in safeguarding civil rights and ensuring justice for all.
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