Activism Inspiring Action, Igniting Justice: Minoru Yasui Day held April 5

Thanks to the support of the University of Oregon School of Law, the event will be held from 2-4 p.m. at the University of Oregon’s NE Portland campus, Campus Center Room 212, 2800 NE Liberty St., Portland.

“The Minoru Yasui Legacy Project is honored to recognize the incredible work of these organizations that tirelessly advocate for justice, equity, and human rights,” said Maija Yasui, member of the executive committee of the Legacy Project. “Now more than ever, we must inspire change. We must continue to fight for justice, stand up against oppression, and build a future where human rights are protected for all. The public is invited to join MYLP in person or online to honor Minoru Yasui’s enduring legacy, celebrate those who follow in his footsteps, and uphold the commitment to justice for all.”

Held in collaboration with the Japanese American Museum of Oregon, this event honors the day on March 28, 1942, when Yasui violated the military curfew that led to the forced removal and imprisonment of more than 110,000 persons of Japanese ancestry during World War II.

“This year’s Minoru Yasui Day holds profound significance as we mark the 10th anniversary of Minoru Yasui’s posthumous Presidential Medal of Freedom, awarded by President Barack Obama on Nov. 24, 2015,” continued the press release. “Yasui is the only Oregonian to have received this award. As the nation’s highest civilian honor, this recognition affirmed Yasui’s lifelong fight for justice and unwavering dedication to civil rights.”

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In honor of this milestone, MYLP will announce the 2025 Minoru Yasui Student Contest winners at the event and introduce the inaugural Minoru Yasui Activism Awards, recognizing 10 organizations that continue his legacy by advocating for marginalized communities, defending civil rights, and promoting justice, according to the press release.