Mr. Dillon S. Myer
WRA, Washington D.C.

April 20, 1943

Dear Mr. Myer:

This is a letter I've been wanting to write to you for a long time. You cannot know how reassuring it is for us Nisei to know that we have in you an understanding director, sincere, far-sighted, and intelligent.

Recently I had occasion to read your testimony before the Senate Sub-Committee on Military Affairs, and I want to tell you how deeply impressed I was by the quality, courage, and clarity of your testimony.

I know you have received letters from some evacuees complaining about the administration of the relocation centers. These are mostly from persons embittered by losses incurred by the evacuation, by persecution inflicted upon them by race-baiters; they are letters from those who find it hard to believe that this could happen to them in a democratic America.

But you should know also that there are a great many of us who appreciate deeply your efforts on our behalf. We realize the enormity and complexity of this unprecedented task of camp administration and resettlement, and we know there are many headaches involved.

I have come through the hell and sorrow of evacuation. My faith in democracy was assailed but not broken. I still believe steadfastly in America, as do many of us Nisei.

The friendship of our Christian Americans and the courage and loyalty of fair-minded organizations have proven to us that democratic principles are still at work.

Gratefully yours,
(signed)
John Kitasako
23 - 7 - F
Heart Mountain, Wyo.

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