Bainbridge Island Japanese American Exclusion Memorial

On the serene south shore of Eagle Harbor in Bainbridge Island, Washington, lies a poignant testament to a somber chapter in American history: the Bainbridge Island Japanese American Exclusion Memorial. This outdoor exhibit is not just a memorial; it is a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength of the Japanese American community during World War II. The memorial's mission, Nidoto Nai Yoni, translates to Let It Not Happen Again, serving as a solemn vow to remember and learn from the past.

The Historical Background

In the 1880s, Japanese immigrants began arriving on Bainbridge Island, drawn by opportunities in sawmills and strawberry harvesting. By the 1940s, these immigrants and their descendants had become an integral part of the island's community. However, the outbreak of World War II cast a dark shadow over their lives. Due to the island's proximity to naval bases, the Japanese American residents of Bainbridge Island were the first in the entire country to be forcibly removed and interned.

On March 30, 1942, with just six days' notice, 227 Japanese Americans were ordered to leave the island. They departed by ferry, leaving behind their homes, businesses, and lives. This event marked the beginning of a harrowing journey for these individuals, most of whom were sent to the Manzanar internment camp in California, and later, some were transferred to Minidoka in Idaho. The local newspaper, The Bainbridge Review, played a crucial role during this period by speaking out against the internment and publishing correspondence from the internees.

After the war, 150 of the internees returned to Bainbridge Island, where they rebuilt their lives. By 2011, about 90 survivors remained, with 20 still residing on the island. Their stories and experiences form the heart of the Bainbridge Island Japanese American Exclusion Memorial.

The Memorial's Design and Features

The Bainbridge Japanese American Community spearheaded the creation of the memorial, envisioning a $9 million facility that would include a pier and a 4,000-square-foot interpretive center. Located next to Pritchard Park and the former Bainbridge Island ferry terminal, the memorial was incorporated into the Minidoka National Historic Site in 2008.

The first and most striking feature of the memorial is the outdoor cedar story wall. This wall, designed by local architect Johnpaul Jones, bears the names of all 276 Japanese Americans who were residents of the island at the time of the internment. The wall's design and construction were deeply symbolic, with Jones, an American Indian, aiming for a natural landscape that included native species such as sword fern, mahonia, salal, and shore pine.

Local artist Steve Gardner contributed to the memorial by creating friezes that depict scenes of residents being herded onto ferries. His work captures the emotional weight of the event, emphasizing the story of American citizens whose lives were upended by wartime hysteria.

The memorial was officially opened to the public on July 30, 2011, marking a significant milestone in the community's efforts to honor and remember the internees. The opening ceremony was a poignant occasion, with Fumiko Hayashida, the oldest surviving internee at the time, speaking at the event. Hayashida's presence and words underscored the importance of the memorial's mission to ensure that such injustices never occur again.

Exploring the Memorial

Visitors to the Bainbridge Island Japanese American Exclusion Memorial are greeted by a serene and contemplative space that invites reflection and remembrance. The story wall serves as a central feature, guiding visitors through the names and stories of those who were affected by the internment. The natural landscaping, with its native plants and tranquil setting, provides a peaceful backdrop for contemplation.

Throughout the memorial, interpretive panels offer insights into the history and experiences of the Japanese American community on Bainbridge Island. These panels provide context and personal stories, helping visitors to connect with the human aspect of this historical event. The memorial also includes a small shelter that houses additional information and serves as a gathering point for educational programs and community events.

One of the most moving aspects of the memorial is the sense of resilience and hope that permeates the space. Despite the hardships and injustices faced by the internees, their stories are a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the importance of standing up against injustice. The memorial's mission, Let It Not Happen Again, serves as a powerful reminder of the need to remember and learn from the past to build a more just and inclusive future.

Visiting the Memorial

The Bainbridge Island Japanese American Exclusion Memorial is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in American history, civil rights, and the resilience of the human spirit. The memorial is easily accessible from the town of Winslow, and its location on the picturesque south shore of Eagle Harbor adds to its tranquil and reflective atmosphere.

As you explore the memorial, take the time to read the names on the story wall, reflect on the personal stories shared through the interpretive panels, and appreciate the natural beauty of the surroundings. The memorial is not just a place of remembrance; it is a call to action to ensure that the injustices of the past are never repeated.

In conclusion, the Bainbridge Island Japanese American Exclusion Memorial stands as a powerful and moving tribute to the Japanese American community and their experiences during World War II. It is a place of reflection, education, and inspiration, reminding us of the importance of standing up against injustice and working towards a more inclusive and just society. A visit to this memorial is a profound and enriching experience that leaves a lasting impact on all who walk its grounds.