RIDGECREST — The California Welcome Center-Ridgecrest in Kern County announces the debut of an exhibit chronicling the history of the Manzanar National Historic Site, timed to coincide with the 55th annual Manzanar Pilgrimage.

Scheduled to run throughout April, this exhibition aims to shed light on a pivotal chapter in American history.

According to Lily Anne Welty Tamai, curator of history at the Japanese American National Museum, the incarceration of Japanese Americans during World War II prompted varied responses, including efforts to affirm their “Americanness.” Through a nuanced exploration of narratives and artifacts, visitors will gain insight into the profound challenges and triumphs faced by individuals and families affected by the government’s actions.

Kari Crutcher, executive director of the California Welcome Center-Ridgecrest, underscored the significance of the Manzanar Pilgrimage as a solemn occasion for descendants of Japanese Americans to honor the memory of those unjustly incarcerated.

“The pilgrimage embodies a spirit of reflection and reverence, providing a platform for cultural enrichment and collective remembrance,” remarked Crutcher. “Ridgecrest stands as a pivotal nexus of cultural exchange in California, and the Manzanar National Historic Site serves as an invaluable educational platform to deepen our understanding of this turbulent period in history.”

The Manzanar Pilgrimage, organized by the Manzanar Committee, is slated to take place on Saturday, April 27, at the Manzanar National Historic Site at Independence.
This year’s program promises to feature an array of cultural performances and commemorative activities, inviting attendees from all walks of life to participate in honoring the legacy of resilience and solidarity.

Manzanar, the first of ten American concentration camps where over 125,000 Japanese Americans and their immigrant parents were confined during World War II, holds significant historical resonance. Participants from diverse backgrounds, including students, educators, community leaders, clergy, and former incarcerees, converge annually for the pilgrimage.

Both the Manzanar Pilgrimage and Manzanar At Dusk program are free and open to the public. For additional information, call (323) 662-5102 or email [email protected].

The California Welcome Center-Ridgecrest, an integral part of Visit California’s statewide network of official welcome centers, aims to enhance visitors’ experiences. In collaboration with the Clarion Hotel in Ridgecrest, affiliated with the Choice Hotels chain, the center extends discounted accommodations to visitors utilizing the promo code MANZANAR. For reservations, call the Clarion Hotel directly at (760) 463-2545.

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