Japanese Canadian War Memorial facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Japanese Canadian War Memorial |
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| Canada | |
The memorial in 2009
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| For Those who fought for freedom & democracy in WWI and those who volunteered and died in WWII | |
| Location | 49°18′04″N 123°07′55″W / 49.30108°N 123.13208°W near Vancouver, British Columbia
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The Japanese Canadian War Memorial is a special monument found in Stanley Park in Vancouver, British Columbia. It was built to remember the brave Japanese Canadians who served Canada in both World War I and World War II. This memorial stands as a symbol of their courage and sacrifice.
A Symbol of Remembrance
The Japanese Canadian War Memorial honours those who fought for freedom and democracy. It specifically remembers Japanese Canadians who volunteered and died in World War I and World War II. This is especially important because many of their families faced great hardship during World War II.
A Light Turned Off and On Again
The memorial once had a light that shone brightly. However, this light was switched off in 1941. This happened after the attack on Pearl Harbor during World War II. At that time, many people in Canada felt worried.
Because of these fears, Japanese residents in Canada faced very difficult times. They were forced to leave their homes and move to special places called internment camps. This meant they lost their homes and belongings. Even some Japanese Canadian soldiers who had fought for Canada in World War I had family members sent to these camps.
All these strict rules and restrictions on Japanese Canadians were finally lifted in April 1949. It took many years for things to return to normal. The memorial's light was eventually turned back on. This happened on August 2, 1985. Re-lighting the memorial's lamp was a powerful moment. It showed that the country was finally recognizing the loyalty and sacrifices of Japanese Canadians.
The memorial reminds us to never forget the challenges faced by Japanese Canadians. It also helps us remember their important contributions to Canada's freedom.
