Report to the President: Japanese-American Internment Sites Preservation

Babbitt, Bruce

This report focuses on the ten Japanese-American War Relocation Centers located in seven States over which the Department of Interior has or had jurisdiction. Parts of the historic cores of some of these sites remain under the jurisdiction of DOI bureaus. The sites have varying levels of historic recognition. Recommendations: In consultation with State and federal agencies, local and national organizations and private individuals, DOI will focus on three main areas: Interpretation, Historic Recognition, and Consultation. In addition, DOI has developed specific recommendations and options for each of the Relocation Centers. InterpretationDevelop a web site to help increase the American public's awareness of the War Relocation Centers and in turn, aid in the preservation of the camps.Develop an interpretive concept plan for all ten Japanese Internment Sites. Historic RecognitionaPursue and/or improve/increase National Register of Historic Places or National Historic Landmark designation for each of the sites. ConsultationContinue to consult with State, Tribal, and Congressional representatives for the sites, as well as national and local organizations with an interest in these sites.The National Park Service will proceed with a Special Resource Study of sites that represent the story of World War II on the homefront. This study was authorized by Public Law 106-362, the Rosie the Riveter/World War II Homefront National Historic Park Establishment Act of 2000. LegislationAll DOI Bureaus will ensure the preservation of historic properties within their jurisdiction in accordance with the provisions of the National Historic Preservation Act.Two Relocation Centers (Manzanar and Heart Mountain) have had specific Congressional action, and there is Congressional interest in other sites. DOI will continue to coordinate with any ongoing or proposed legislative efforts for specific sites.