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Today, we’re reflecting on a powerful chapter in American history at Minidoka National Historic Site, located in southern Idaho. This site preserves the memory of one of ten incarceration camps where over 13,000 Japanese Americans were unjustly imprisoned during World War II following Executive Order 9066. From 1942 to 1945, families—many U.S. citizens—were forcibly removed from their homes and held at Minidoka under harsh and often dehumanizing conditions. Despite these challenges, the incarcerees built a resilient community, with schools, farms, and even a newspaper. Minidoka is now a place of remembrance and education, known for its preserved structures, honor roll of Japanese American soldiers who served in the U.S. Army, and annual pilgrimages by survivors and their descendants. The site serves as a solemn reminder of the consequences of wartime fear and racial prejudice, urging us to uphold civil liberties and human dignity—especially in times of crisis.

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This episode dives into the rich and layered history of Padre Island, the longest undeveloped barrier island in the world. From its early indigenous inhabitants, the Karankawa, through colonial claims by Spain, Mexico, the Republic of Texas, and finally the U.S., the island has a complex past. Listeners learn about Padre Nicolas Ballí, the island's namesake, and how the land served as a naval bombing range during WWII.

Today, Padre Island National Seashore is a haven for wildlife and nature lovers, boasting over 400 plant species and nearly half of all bird species in North America. It’s also a critical nesting site for the endangered Kemp’s ridley sea turtle, with opportunities to witness hatchling releases. The episode wraps with visitor info, including trail tips and accessibility features, encouraging everyone to explore and help protect this ecological treasure.

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