December 8, 1941
Governor Charles A. Sprague
State Capitol Building
Salem, Oregon
Dear Governor Sprague:
We
of the Young Women's Christian Association have in our Young Women's
Department and in our High School Girl Reserve Department three large
groups of young second-generation Japanese girls. As Y.W.C.A. secretaries
we have come to know these girls as individuals and as Americans and
to believe in them and in their loyalty during the present crisis.
It
is because we feel so keenly their difficult position in the present
crisis that we want to express to you our personal appreciation of
the statement of confidence in the second-generation Japanese-Americans
you made in your message Sunday. We know they are greatly troubled
and we know the economic and social difficulties they are facing,
particularly with many of their parents (Japanese nationals) being
placed in custody.
We
think perhaps you would like to know that early last week a group
of these girls came in to us to ask for advice and direction toward
the end of helping in civilian defense. They talked with our Portland
Civilian Defense Volunteer Bureau and are outlining a program of cooperation
in American defense. One group has been regularly conducting First-Aid
classes in our building.
If
there is a way that comes to your attention in which the Y.W.C.A.
can help to stabilize these frightened young people, we are very eager
to have you call upon us for assistance -- both as individuals and
as Y.W.C.A. secretaries.