HOUSE RESOLUTION COMMEMORATING JANUARY 30, 2026, AS "FRED KOREMATSU DAY OF CIVIL LIBERTIES AND THE CONSTITUTION"

Plain-English Summary

This is a House Resolution from the Rhode Island General Assembly that officially recognizes January 30, 2026, as "Fred Korematsu Day of Civil Liberties and the Constitution" in the state of Rhode Island. The resolution is a formal expression of the legislature's values and serves as a public commemoration rather than creating any new laws, programs, or government spending.

Fred Korematsu was an American citizen of Japanese descent who famously refused to comply with the forced relocation and internment of Japanese Americans during World War II. He was arrested and convicted, but decades later his conviction was overturned, and he became a celebrated civil rights hero. He received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1998. January 30th was chosen because it was his birthday. Several other states have already established similar commemorations in his honor.

This resolution affects Rhode Island residents broadly by encouraging awareness and reflection on civil liberties, constitutional rights, and the history of civil rights in America. It is primarily symbolic in nature — honoring Korematsu's legacy and reminding the public of the importance of protecting constitutional rights for all people. The resolution has already passed the Rhode Island House of Representatives.