In May 1942 Gordon Hirabayashi, a Quaker and pacifist, deliberately violated the curfew imposed upon Japanese Americans. Forty-four years later the courts reversed his conviction on the grounds that the curfew and uprooting policies were unjustified. Gordon, a Canadian citizen, resides in Edmonton and was a sociology professor at the University of Alberta for many years. He was actively involved in the Edmonton Japanese Community Association and founded their newsletter, Moshi Moshi, to keep the community informed during the redress movement. He was a well-known and active member on the NAJC Council during the ‘80s. His historical perspective and strong belief in individual rights helped shape the NAJC redress principles. He received the NAJC National Award in 2003.
Gordon Hirabayashi (photo: Jim Hoyano)
Dinner held in honour of Gordon’s award. (photo: Jim Hoyano)
Gordon receives the NAJC National Award from NAJC President Keiko Miki (photo: Jim Hoyano)
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