10/09/2026
Law students routinely study Korematsu v. United States, but few have the opportunity to hear directly from the daughter of the man behind one of the most significant civil rights cases in American history.
California Western School of Law recently welcomed Dr. Karen Korematsu, founder and president of the Fred T. Korematsu Institute and daughter of civil rights icon Fred Korematsu, for a powerful discussion on civil liberties, constitutional rights, and the enduring relevance of her father's legacy.
Hosted by our chapter of the Asian Pacific American Law Student Association (APALSA), the event brought together a full room of students, faculty, alumni, and members of the legal community. Through stories of her father's fight against the incarceration of Japanese Americans during World War II and the decades-long effort to clear his name, Dr. Korematsu offered a deeply personal perspective on a case that remains central to legal education today.
The program included remarks from Dean Miriam Baer, Professor William Aceves, and Hon. Selena D**g Epley of the San Diego Superior Court. Special thanks to Judge Epley, whose support and personal connection to Dr. Korematsu helped make this meaningful event possible. The event would also not have been possible without the support of co-sponsors Japanese American Bar Association of San Diego (JABA-SD), and the Pan Asian Lawyers of San Diego (PALSD).
For APALSA student leaders, the event was both an honor and an inspiration. The opportunity to engage directly with one of the nation's leading advocates for civil rights underscored the vital role lawyers play in protecting constitutional rights and ensuring the lessons of history are never forgotten.
The timing was especially meaningful, as Dr. Korematsu was later recognized by the California Asian Pacific American Bar Association (Cal-APABA) as a Community Champion, while our APALSA chapter was honored as APALSA of the Year.
Thank you to Dr. Korematsu for sharing her family's story and reminding us that the pursuit of justice requires each generation to stand up for what is right.
