an American civil rights icon passed away recently and so few knew about him. in fact i myself knew little about him, other than in generalities. i'm pleased that i've learned much more about him of late, even though it's through the sad time of his passing, particularly through the detailed remembrances in AsianWeek. hearing about his struggle, the simple wrongness of the courts and executive branch and legislators at the time, it all brings to mind the simple wrongness that much of what constitutes as legality in regards to terrorism and such and how, maybe, one day we'll be able to look back and see how simply wrong it all is and wonder how/why.

The struggles of Fred Korematsu and others provide the quintessential story of a democracy that is strong enough to admit mistakes. The late-life denunciations of the PATRIOT Act by Korematsu and many other Japanese Americans provide an example of how we as Americans can learn from the past and apply those lessons to the present.

don't know much about Fred Korematsu? get to know him.

So, in honor of Fred Korematsu, I want to do what I can: Make up a word. Coin a phrase. It’s in my license as a columnist.
We mourn the passing of the noun. Today, I give you the verb: to korematsu — 1. to perform an incredible act of courage against authority, but remaining steadfast in the knowledge that you have the moral upper-hand. 2. To endure and suffer great losses in the name of the community, while the system takes its time to ultimately vindicate your position.
So long, Fred.
In your absence, we all vow to korematsu more often.

Thank you, Fred, for inspiring so many of us with your courage, your strength and your vision. You were a true American hero.