Congressional Gold Medal Awarded Posthumously to Civil Rights Advocate Fred Korematsu
This Act posthumously awards the Congressional Gold Medal to Fred Korematsu, a citizen who challenged the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II. This recognition honors his lifelong dedication to civil rights, justice, and equality, serving as a powerful national reminder of the importance of protecting constitutional guarantees against discrimination. The medal will be displayed at the Smithsonian Institution for public viewing and research.
Key points
Authorizes the posthumous award of the Congressional Gold Medal to Fred Korematsu for his contributions to civil rights and patriotism.
Acknowledges the historical injustice of the Japanese American internment and the government's suppression of evidence in Korematsu's original Supreme Court case.
The medal will be given to the Smithsonian Institution for display, ensuring his legacy remains a public lesson on vigilance in protecting constitutional rights.
Reinforces the national commitment to equal justice under the law and cautioning against repeating past mistakes based on race or ethnicity.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_137
Sponsor: Sen. Hirono, Mazie K. [D-HI]
Process start date: 2023-01-30