George H. W. Bush

In 1988, the Civil Liberties Act was passed, calling for a formal presidential apology and authorizing reparations of $20,000 for each surviving internee who was a U.S. citizen or legal resident immigrant at the time of internment. The following letter accompanied each $20,000 check.

A monetary sum and words alone cannot restore lost years or erase painful memories; neither can they fully convey our Nation’s resolve to rectify injustice and to uphold the rights of individuals. We can never fully right the wrongs of the past. But we can take a clear stand for justice and recognize that serious injustices were done to Japanese Americans during World War II.

In enacting a law calling for restitution and offering a sincere apology, your fellow Americans have, in a very real sense, renewed their traditional commitment to the ideals of freedom, equality, and justice. You and your family have our best wishes for the future.

Sincerely,

George Bush

President of the United States

(1991)