Japanese American Citizens League
Champion Award

Washington, DC
September 19, 2007

The Japanese American Citizens League held their Inaugural National Gala Awards Dinner, "A Salute to Champions," on September 12 in Washington, DC. I was honored to be named one of five "Champions" recognized at the event for my work to conserve the Minidoka National Historic Site.

The other Champions included State Farm Insurance, Karen Narasaki of the Asian American Justice Center, Ambassador Ryozo Kato of Japan, and my colleague Senator Daniel Inouye.

Because I was unable to attend the event, representatives from the Japanese American Citizens League, including Mr. Floyd Mori, the national director of the League, visited with me in my Capitol office and presented me with the Champion Award.

During times of war, countries often make mistakes with the best of intentions. The treatment of Japanese Americans during World War II was a dark period in our history, and one we could repeat if future generations forget. Conserving the sites of the camps and establishing educational opportunities will help ensure we don't repeat our past mistakes.

Learn more about the Minidoka National Monument, located in Jerome County, Idaho, 15 miles east of Jerome and 15 miles north of Twin Falls.