On February 19, 1976, President Gerald R. Ford took a historic step towards addressing a dark chapter in American history by signing a proclamation that formally terminated the internment of Japanese Americans, which had begun in 1942 during World War II. Ford described the issuance of the internment order as “a sad day in American history,” acknowledging the profound injustices faced by individuals of Japanese ancestry unjustly confined in camps due to prevailing wartime hysteria and racial prejudice. In a ceremony held at the White House, Ford's proclamation recognized the painful legacy of the internment, which had seen over 120,000 Japanese Americans—many of whom were U.S. citizens—removed from their homes and businesses. The internment, sanctioned by Executive Order 9066, was driven by unfounded fears of espionage and sabotage, reflecting the wartime climate of distrust and discrimination. Many of those affected lost not only their homes but also their livelihoods, dignity, and sense of belonging. Ford’s action was more than a symbolic gesture; it was part of a concerted effort to rectify the injustices of the past and to promote healing. The proclamation acknowledged the hardships endured by the internees and set the stage for future legislative measures aimed at redress, including the establishment of the Commission on Wartime Relocation and Internment of Civilians (CWRIC). The commission's findings ultimately led to the Civil Liberties Act of 1988, which offered formal apologies and reparations to survivors. This moment in 1976 was crucial for acknowledging the errors of the past, encouraging a national dialogue on civil liberties, and emphasizing the importance of safeguarding the rights of all citizens against prejudice and discrimination. Ford’s signing of the proclamation remains a significant milestone in the journey toward reconciliation and justice for the Japanese American community.