Reading Room Document

Possible Removal of Japanese From Alien Enemy Classification

This memo addressed a request from the legislative director of the Japanese Citizens League that the President issue a proclamation removing “enemy alien” classification status from Japanese residents of the United States. The opinion canvassed the views of INS, the Criminal Division, the Office of Alien Property, and the Claims Division, before explaining its view that the “real objective” of the Japanese Citizens League was to have the president terminate the state of war with Japan before the Peace Treaty was confirmed, which the OLC found objectionable.

January 11, 1952