Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HR77

Introduced

1/28/25

Refer

1/28/25

Caption

This resolution supports the designation of Fred Korematsu Day of Civil Liberties and the Constitution.It also encourages all people to reflect on the importance of political leadership and vigilance and on the values of justice and civil rights during times of uncertainty and emergency.

Impact

The resolution highlights and reflects on the historical context of Korematsu’s resistance against Executive Order 9066, which led to the forced incarceration of over 120,000 Japanese Americans. By recognizing this day nationwide, it emphasizes the ongoing need for civic education concerning civil liberties and the protection of constitutional rights. Korematsu's actions, particularly his legal battles challenging his wrongful conviction, are positioned as critical lessons on the fragility of these rights during emergencies.

Summary

HR77 seeks to designate January 30, 2025, as ‘Fred Korematsu Day of Civil Liberties and the Constitution.' This resolution honors Fred Korematsu's legacy as a symbol of the struggle for civil liberties, particularly regarding the rights of individuals during periods of national security crises. The day serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining vigilance for civil rights, especially in challenging times where historical injustices, such as the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II, have occurred.

Contention

While there appears to be broad support for the commemoration of Fred Korematsu, there may be differing opinions on how effectively the resolution will educate the public about civil liberties issues or address contemporary freedom challenges. Some might argue that more expansive legislative measures are needed to protect civil rights today rather than a single day of recognition. The discussion surrounding the significance of Korematsu's legacy could also highlight the ongoing impact of government actions during crises and their correlation to contemporary issues of racial and national identity.

Congress_id

119-HRES-77

Policy_area

Civil Rights and Liberties, Minority Issues

Introduced_date

2025-01-28

Latest HR77 Activity

Companion Bills

US SR47

Related bill A resolution designating January 30, 2025, as "Fred Korematsu Day of Civil Liberties and the Constitution".

Previously Filed As

US HR74

Recognizing the importance of establishing a national "Fred Korematsu Day of Civil Liberties and the Constitution".

US SR19

A resolution recognizing the importance of establishing a national "Fred Korematsu Day of Civil Liberties and the Constitution".

US HB640

Fred Korematsu Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2023

US SB137

Fred Korematsu Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2023

US HB639

Korematsu-Takai Civil Liberties Protection Act of 2023

US SB129

Korematsu-Takai Civil Liberties Protection Act of 2023

US SR923

A resolution recognizing the critical importance and contributions of global civil society in advancing human rights, condemning the use of political imprisonment as a tool of repression, and calling for the release of political prisoners across the world in commemoration of Human Rights Day on December 10, 2024.

US HR751

Expressing support for the designation of October 1, 2023, as "National Animal Rescue Day" to create awareness of the importance of animal adoption, to educate on the importance of spaying and neutering animals, and to encourage animal adoptions throughout the United States.

US HR1335

Supporting the designation of July 21, 2024, as "Guam Liberation Day".

US HR779

Recognizing the importance of the National Park Service in preserving the legacy of LGBTQI+ people and honoring their contributions to American history through the preservation of historic places and landmarks.