# Fred Korematsu Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2021

This bill awards the Congressional Gold Medal to Fred Korematsu, a Japanese American civil rights hero who fought against the U.S. government's forced internment of Japanese Americans during World War II. The Congressional Gold Medal is one of the highest civilian honors Congress can give, and it's awarded to recognize extraordinary achievements and contributions to American society.

Fred Korematsu became famous for refusing to obey the government's order to report to an internment camp in 1942. Instead of complying, he challenged the order in court, arguing that the government had no right to lock up American citizens based solely on their race or ethnicity. He lost his case at the time, but decades later, in 1983, a federal judge overturned his conviction after evidence showed the government had hidden important information from the courts. Korematsu spent the rest of his life speaking out against racial discrimination and defending civil rights.

By awarding him this medal, Congress is officially recognizing that Korematsu was right to stand up against an unjust government policy, and that his courage in fighting for his rights—even when he lost—was an important contribution to American democracy and the ongoing struggle for equality. The medal serves as a permanent reminder that the internment was a serious mistake and that individuals have a responsibility to challenge government actions they believe are wrong, even when the odds are against them. This bill doesn't change any laws or create new programs; it's purely a symbolic honor meant to celebrate Korematsu's legacy and the principles he fought for.

Fred Korematsu Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2021

Hirono, Mazie K.

Fred Korematsu Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2021 This bill provides for the award of a Congressional Gold Medal posthumously to Fred Korematsu in recognition of his contributions to civil rights, his loyalty and patriotism to the nation, and his dedication to justice and equality.