In the midst of WWII, then President FDR signed Executive Order 9066 which resulted in the forced detention of about 120,000 Japanese immigrants and those Americans of Japanese descent into what have been described as internment camps. It is relevant to note that the order also affected smaller numbers, but numbers nonetheless, of Americans stemming from both German and Italian ancestry as well.

The San Francisco Chronicle is reporting that the UC Board of Regents, which oversees the University of California schools, has decided to grant honorary degrees to those students whose  educations were cut short due to the aforementioned forced imprisonment. To do so caused the Regents to break a 37-year ban on granting honorary degrees.

The Chronicle article discusses how many of the former prisoners did, however, go on to complete degrees at a variety of out of state institutions, including some at UC schools, though there were countless others who were still unable to finish their university educations.

Each degree will include the inscription: Inter Silvas Academi Restituere Institiam which translates from Latin as meaning: “To restore justice among the groves of the academy.”

It is a bit sad to think that it has taken such an institution so very long to get its act together. In fact, as fantastic as this is symbolically, it just reeks of superficiality. Well, to an extent: I’m sure the recipients and their families (posthumous degrees are being granted as well) are happy to see this come and I for one am in no place to trample that. That said, I still think it is relevant to point out that something a bit more functional should have been in order, as in years and years ago when a real (see: functional) degree could/should have been offered.

What can you do to help?

The Regents need assistance tracking down former students who were kept from graduating because of the internement. If you have any information or questions pertaining to a loved one who may be eligible, please e-mail the Regents or call (510) 987-0239.