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Humanities Book Group

Enduring Conviction

Reading & discussion on "Enduring Conviction" by Lorraine K. Bannai.

Selected Readings on the Japanese American Experience: A monthly reading and discussion group focusing on topics in history, culture, and the humanities. The group typically meets first Thursdays at 7 pm and is led by guest scholars. Pick up a copy of each month's book from the front desk. Click here to go to the website for the Brigham City Library's Humanities Book Group.

Enduring Conviction by Lorraine K. Bannai.

Scholar: Kerri Clement, PhD, WSU.

Book Description:

Fred Korematsu's decision to resist F.D.R.'s Executive Order 9066, which provided authority for the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II, was initially the case of a young man following his heart: he wanted to remain in California with his white fiancée. However, he quickly came to realize that it was more than just a personal choice; it was a matter of basic human rights.

After refusing to leave for incarceration when ordered, Korematsu was eventually arrested and convicted of a federal crime before being sent to the internment camp at Topaz, Utah.

He appealed his conviction to the Supreme Court, which, in one of the most infamous cases in American legal history, upheld the wartime orders. Forty years later, in the early 1980s, a team of young attorneys resurrected Korematsu's case. This time, Korematsu was victorious, and his conviction was overturned, helping to pave the way for Japanese American redress.

Series Frequently asked questions:

• I can't make it in person, can I attend via Zoom? Yes. A Zoom link is available by request. Please contact the library, 435-723-5850, at least 24 hours before the event to get a link.
• How do I join the Book Group? Come to an event. Everyone is welcome to attend any or all of the discussions.
• How do I get a book? A limited number of books are available for group members to borrow at the library's circulation desk. No library card necessary.
• Do I have to read the book in order to come to the discussion? No. Reading the book will certainly enhance your experience in the discussion and prepare you for talking points, but all are welcome no matter how much (or how little) of the book they have read.
• Can I borrow a copy to read after the discussion? Yes. As group members turn in their books, those books may be borrowed by others.

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