Boneshakers
Sir: It came as something of a shock to this American to read an article by Nicholas von Hoffman (`Old American bones', 12 March) with which I could not quarrel on any score. I have only a few comments to add to his description of that sad chapter in our recent history.
What — if anything — did the Congres- sional Commission recommend, beyond vague 'apologies' to the Nisei (and their descendants) then interned in Manzanar and the other euphemistically named `relocation camps'? The question (as Mr von Hoffman correctly pointed out) was always one of economics, and the issue now is one of restitution for their homes, businesses and property. At a time when even the American social security system is in jeopardy, I fear `Sorry, folks,' is all the Japanese-Americans will get.
Incidentally, Norman Thomas was — not for the first time — right in spirit but not in fact. The term `concentration camp' originated with the British during the Boer War, when Boer civilians were interned to prevent them aiding Boer guerrillas.
Old bones do rattle — almost everywhere!
Susan H. Llewellyn
24 Burleigh Court, Burlington Road, Dublin
Previous page
