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How Hawai'i Protected Japanese Americans From Mass Internment And Transformed Itself

Mark Twain

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Published in Inclusion: How Hawai I Protected Japanese Americans From Mass Internment Transformed Itself And Changed America

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In the wake of the Pearl Harbor attack on December 7, 1941, the United States government authorized the mass internment of Japanese Americans, a dark chapter in American history. But in Hawai'i, where Japanese Americans made up a third of the population, a different story unfolded.

Inclusion: How Hawai‘i Protected Japanese Americans from Mass Internment, Transformed Itself, and Changed America

by Tom Coffman

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Hawai'i's unique history and culture played a key role in protecting Japanese Americans from internment. Hawai'i had been a melting pot of different cultures for centuries, and Japanese Americans had been an integral part of the community since the late 19th century. They were well-integrated into society, and many had served in the military. As a result, there was widespread support for Japanese Americans in Hawai'i, and the government was reluctant to intern them.

In addition, Hawai'i's military governor, General Delos Emmons, was a strong advocate for Japanese Americans. Emmons believed that interning Japanese Americans would be a mistake, and he worked to keep them out of the camps. Thanks to Emmons' efforts, and the support of the local community, Japanese Americans in Hawai'i were spared the fate of their counterparts on the mainland.

The decision to protect Japanese Americans in Hawai'i had a profound impact on the state. It helped to create a more inclusive and tolerant society, and it laid the foundation for the state's modern-day diversity. Today, Hawai'i is home to people from all over the world, and it is a model of racial harmony.

The story of how Hawai'i protected Japanese Americans from mass internment is a powerful reminder of the importance of tolerance and understanding. It is a story that should be told and retold, so that we can all learn from the mistakes of the past and build a more just and equitable future.

The Aloha Spirit

The aloha spirit is a key part of Hawaiian culture. It is a spirit of love, compassion, and understanding. The aloha spirit was on full display during World War II, when Hawai'i welcomed Japanese Americans with open arms.

The aloha spirit is not just about tolerance. It is about embracing diversity and celebrating the unique contributions of all people. It is a spirit that has made Hawai'i a special place, and it is a spirit that can inspire us all.

The story of how Hawai'i protected Japanese Americans from mass internment is a story of hope and resilience. It is a story that shows us the power of tolerance and understanding. It is a story that inspires us to build a more just and equitable world.

Inclusion: How Hawai‘i Protected Japanese Americans from Mass Internment, Transformed Itself, and Changed America

by Tom Coffman

4 out of 5