A Japanese Canadian veterans' Legion branch, disbanded during World War II, is being reinstated after 84 years. The Royal Canadian Legion branch, founded in 1926 by Japanese Canadian veterans of the First World War, had been forced to close during the Second World War due to internment policies. The branch was recently revived by descendants of its original members.
Masumi Mitsui, a decorated veteran of Vimy Ridge, never participated in a public Remembrance Day ceremony, according to his grandson David Mitsui. The branch had remained inactive for decades until efforts by descendants to restore its status began. The revival comes as Remembrance Day approaches, marking the anniversary of the First World War's end. The group's reestablishment is seen as a step toward acknowledging historical injustices faced by Japanese Canadians.
The Legion branch had served as a community hub for Japanese Canadian veterans before its closure. Its reinstatement is part of broader efforts to recognize and rectify past wrongs. The group plans to hold its first official meeting ahead of the Remembrance Day ceremonies. The event will include a public ceremony honoring veterans and their contributions. The revival highlights ongoing efforts to preserve historical memory and address past discrimination.
