Italian Americans demand recognition of wartime internment injustices

During a recent government meeting, discussions centered on the historical contributions and challenges faced by Italian Americans, particularly during World War II. A representative highlighted the significant presence of Italian Americans in California since the 1850s, particularly during the gold rush, and expressed gratitude for a resolution recognizing their contributions.

The conversation took a poignant turn as a senator inquired about the internment of Italian Americans during the war. It was revealed that approximately 10,000 Italian Americans were forcibly relocated from the West Coast, with the FBI conducting midnight raids on their homes. The impact of this internment was severe, with reports of elderly individuals living in dire conditions and some tragically taking their own lives due to the trauma of being questioned about their loyalty to the United States.

The senator referenced a book titled \"Sunshine and Struggle,\" which documents these events, and noted that for decades, the federal government denied the internment occurred. It wasn't until the year 2000, under President Bill Clinton, that the Italian American Civil Liberties Act was signed, acknowledging the injustices faced by this community and mandating an investigation into the matter.

The meeting underscored the importance of recognizing and addressing historical grievances, as well as the ongoing efforts to honor the legacy of Italian Americans in the United States.