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Relationship between Japan & Hawaii

Posted on 03.08.17 8:34PM under Uncategorized

It’s complicated! Japanese first landed in Hawaii as plantation workers in 1806. At their height in 1920, they constituted 43% of Hawaii’s population. As of the 2000 census, there were 16%, but that doesn’t count the hapa-haoles of which there are many. Of course we will always “Remember Pearl Harbor!” However, the 442nd Infantry Regiment became the most decorated unit in U.S. military history.

In January 2017, a permanent exhibit that honors WWII Nisei veterans.

“The Japanese American soldiers fought two battles during the war: the Axis enemies in Europe, Asia, and the Pacific and domestic racism and suspicion at home,” said Wes Deguchi, Nisei Veterans Legacy president. “This exhibit will expose millions of travelers, not only from our country but overseas as well, to the heroism and achievements of these veterans. Very few of them are still with us to tell their stories in their own words, so it was our goal that this exhibit and the work of the NVL tell of their sacrifices for Hawaii, our nation, and the world. We’re very grateful to the Hawaii Department of Transportation for this opportunity and to our volunteers for their time and creativity.”

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“Through this exhibit, millions of people who pass through Honolulu International Airport each year will have the opportunity to learn more about the heroism and service of Japanese American World War II veterans, who bravely fought for the United States even as their loyalty was questioned at home,” said U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono, D, Hawaii.

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