October 30, 1942

Dear Mr. Myer:

Dr. Dedrick came in to see me just prior to his return to the West Coast. He has, as you know, been in charge of the Statistical Division of the W.C.C.A. and I think you know him rather well. He pictured to me a process of which I had already heard from several sources and which rather alarms me. The substance of his conclusions is that unless a more stringent internal control of the evacuees is exercised, or until a segregation policy is put into effect, there is not only a constant danger that incidents will arise in the Relocation Centers which will finally result in serious disorders, but of a progressive deterioration of the morals of the loyal elements.

The War Department has to be interested in any development which may eventually require the employment of troops; but apart from that unwelcome consideration, the condition, if it exists, constitutes an increasing obstacle to the prompt rehabilitation of the Japanese. Dr. Dedrick, through evidence which comes to him in a number of different forms, is convinced that the influence of the pro-Japanese evacuees is being exerted more and more against the Nisei and the other Japanese whose sympathies lie with this country. The physical proximity in concentrated groups of the parents, who are almost invariably Japanese born, is beginning to have its influence on the younger generation, an influence which before their removal was being dissipated as a result of the association of the younger Japanese with the Caucasians. In some of the camps the Kibei, the parolees and the Issei, combined, seem to be exerting heavy pressure on the Nisei and the others who are well-disposed toward America. The limited restraints which have been imposed on the Nisei's liberty are sufficient in and of themselves to make the situation difficult, without the more sinister influences. His only solution is segregation, and prompt segregation, because during every week that goes by more of the good apples are being contaminated. He points out that if this tendency is permitted to continue, the problem of rehabilitation will become more difficult; and if there are ugly incidents in the camps, the job of convincing the American people that the Japanese can be trusted and permitted to distribute themselves throughout the country will be made infinitely greater.

There have been incidents reported by the Caucasian employees of contractors of the theft of metal pipes and appliances, the smuggling of contraband, and other things which indicate that some violence may occur.

I have asked him to talk with Colonel Bendetsen and if it is their view, from the evidence that we have, that these tendencies are apparent, to set the evidence down in the form of a report which I can pass on to you for your more careful consideration. In the meantime, however, since Dr. Dedrick seemed to be so concerned over the matter, I thought it wise to pass his views on to you so that you might be giving the matter some thought.

I am aware that segregation involves substantial complications and it may present construction problems, but I wonder whether arrangements could not be made fairly readily to deal at once with the parolees and the repatriates.

Sincerely,
JOHN J. McCLOY

Mr. Dillon S. Myer, Director
War Relocation Authority
Room 812, Barr Building
Washington, D.C.