[cid:image002.jpg@01DCE1F8.A289C870] NEWS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 12, 2026 MEDIA CONTACT: Derek Nguyen, Marketing and Communications Director, Washington State History Museum, 253-317-1273 derek.nguyen@wshs.wa.gov<mailto:derek.nguyen@wshs.wa.gov> Washington State History Museum Hosts Japanese Day of Remembrance  [cid:image003.png@01DCE1F8.A289C870] Tamiko Nimura speaking at the 2025 South Sound Day of Remembrance. Tacoma, Wash.  – The Washington State History Museum will host the 9th Annual South Sound Day of Remembrance: A Gathering of Japanese American Stories on Thursday, May 21, 2026, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. as part of its We the People Lecture Series. The free public event commemorates the 84th anniversary of the forced removal and incarceration of Japanese Americans from South Puget Sound in May 1942.  Now in its ninth year, the annual Day of Remembrance has become a vital South Sound tradition, honoring the lives disrupted by Executive Order 9066 and preserving the stories of Japanese American families whose histories continue to shape the region and the nation.  Curated by Tamiko Nimura<https://www.tamikonimura.net/about/>, this year’s event centers on literature and storytelling, featuring a book fair and live readings from a distinguished group of writers whose work explores Japanese American identity, history, memory, and resilience. The evening will also include a commemorative procession from the Washington State History Museum to Union Station, honoring the journeys made under duress by Japanese American families in 1942.  “In the event’s ninth year, we gather to honor and uplift Japanese American stories and storytellers,” said Nimura. “We’re honored that these authors and partner organizations will be joining us to commemorate this important anniversary in our region’s history.”  Featured participating authors include Kiik Araki-Kawaguchi, Kelly Goto, Sharon Hashimoto, Kiku Hughes, Evelyn Iritani, Sanae Ishida, Lawrence Matsuda, Lori Matsukawa, and Troy Osaki. Together, these writers bring a range of perspectives across generations, genres, and family histories, reflecting the enduring impact of wartime incarceration and the many ways Japanese American communities continue to tell their stories. For more information about the exhibition, public programs, and other offerings, visit www.WashingtonHistory.org<https://www.washingtonhistory.org/>. ### About The Washington State Historical Society and History Museum The Washington State Historical Society works with our communities to explore how history connects us all. Its most prominent activity is the Washington State History Museum, located in Tacoma's Museum District on Pacific Avenue. The museum features interactive core exhibitions about Washington in the Great Hall, rotating special exhibitions, and various public events and programs that cover a wide range of historical topics. The WSHS provides curriculum resources, downloadable exhibitions, and educational support across the state, as well as consultation and resources for museums and heritage organizations. Address: 1911 Pacific Avenue, Tacoma, WA 98402 Hours: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM Tuesday through Sunday. Admission: <http://www.washingtonhistory.org/support/membership/> FREE for member<http://www.washingtonhistory.org/support/membership/>s<http://www.washingtonhistory.org/support/membership/>; <http://www.washingtonhistory.org/support/membership/> $17 adults; $14 seniors (age 65+) and military (with ID); $11 students (age 6-17) $11. Through the Museums for Al<https://museums4all.org/>l<https://museums4all.org/> <https://museums4all.org/> p<https://museums4all.org/>rogram and licensed Washington Foster Parents can attend for $1 per person or $2 per family. ________________________________ Connor Hamm Editor & Publications Manager Washington State Historical Society 1911 Pacific Avenue, Tacoma, WA 98402 253-798-5901 Become a member! WashingtonHistory.org