The publication is reproduced in full below:
GO FOR BROKE STAMP
______
HON. DORIS O. MATSUI
of california
in the house of representatives
Wednesday, June 16, 2021
Ms. MATSUI. Madam Speaker, it is an honor to recognize the toughness and resiliency of the Japanese American soldiers of the four forty-
second regimental combat team during World War II. Men and women who stepped up to fight for American prosperity while their families were simultaneously forced into confinement camps.
This stamp, which displays their motto ``Go For Broke,'' honors the patriotism Japanese American soldiers exemplified despite the betrayal they faced at home. Under these charged circumstances, the 442nd proved itself as one of the most decorated unit of its size and length of service in the entire history of the U.S. Military.
As a community with a shared, and at times, painful history, it is important to have a symbol. A national symbol of perseverance.
Many Americans don't know the stories of their own family tree . . . they likely don't know the bravery of the Japanese American soldiers during WWII, soldiers of the 442nd and others, who helped save our country while our own government was tearing apart our families.
The stamp will shine a light on this chapter of history. And to teach that we are all Americans. To see the United States soldier's face on the stamp, an Asian American face.
This stamp is also the symbol of the tireless efforts of three wonderful women--FUSA Takahashi, AIKO King and CHIZ Ohira, who truly drove the effort to make this a reality.
The story behind the creation of this stamp speaks to the dedication and strong fabric of the Japanese American community. This was a community-led effort, started over 15 years ago, that brought together many generations. I saw up close how hard it was to convince their fellow colleagues that this is important, to work with the community, to talk to their legislators.
Just earlier this month, I had the pleasure to see its unveiling in Sacramento and speak to Fusa about the importance of this community symbol. We all shared our stories from that chapter of time.
I know that many families who were incarcerated did not tell their stories once they were allowed back home. It was painful to be incarcerated, to live behind barbed wire and lose your homes, businesses and even loved ones.
We remembered when our community stood up and shared our painful past with Congress and across the country, fought for redress and the Civil Liberties Act. We recounted the many efforts of educating our neighbors and our children, to remind them that we are everyday Americans and what happened was wrong.
And now, recently, we understand how important it is to continue to teach about our history because people are hurting, especially with the horrific events that have targeted the AAPI community. Looking at the past, one thing we've learned is that we have to stand up for each other.
As we continue to strive to become a more tolerant nation, we must do our part in overcoming societal wrongs, and we must also remember the strength of our nation when we come together toward a shared goal.
The Go For Broke Stamp is a symbol of education, of healing, and of community. The Japanese American experience is a vital piece of American history, and in order to have a stronger democracy, we must lift each other up and tell our stories.
I am glad that this stamp will serve as a reminder of the Japanese American story, and the bravery and patriotism of these American heroes.
____________________
SOURCE: Congressional Record Vol. 167, No. 105
The Congressional Record is a unique source of public documentation. It started in 1873, documenting nearly all the major and minor policies being discussed and debated.
House Representatives' salaries are historically higher than the median US income.
Alerts Sign-up