ABA Section of Civil Rights and Social Justice 32d ago

Join Wendy Shiba and Ann Burroughs for a timely conversation on the role of the Japanese American National Museum in defending civil rights, preserving historical memory, and confronting modern threats to democracy. Reflecting on the legacy of Japanese American incarceration during World War II, the discussion explores how museums serve not only as cultural institutions, but as essential civic spaces where history, truth, and democratic values are protected. The conversation examines JANM’s public stance against efforts to erase or whitewash history, the growing challenges facing museums and cultural institutions, and the importance of preserving collective memory in the face of rising authoritarianism, xenophobia, and attacks on civil rights. Panelists also discuss the museum’s Democracy Center, contemporary parallels to past injustices, and JANM’s ongoing work to foster civic engagement, dialogue, and solidarity across communities. Ann Burroughs – President and CEO, Japanese American National Museum and Daniel K. Inouye National Center for the Preservation of Democracy Wendy Shiba (Moderator) – Chair, ABA Center for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, and Member, JANM Board of Trustees -- During the 2025–26 Bar Year, Section Chair Mario A. Sullivan continues CRSJ’s Chair Chat – bringing together leading lawyers, scholars, advocates, and organizers to tackle the most urgent civil rights and rule-of-law issues and share practical strategies for impact. New episodes premiere every other Thursday at 2:00 p.m. ET on our YouTube channel. Subscribe for updates and catch past conversations on-demand. Learn more about CRSJ Chair Chat: https://www.americanbar.org/groups/crsj/resources/on-demand/chair-chat/