Executive Order 9066: The President Authorizes Japanese Relocation: Rights Versus Privilege Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Sentence)

Quote #1

Now, therefore, by virtue of the authority vested in me as President of the United States, and Commander in Chief of the Army and Navy, I hereby authorize and direct the Secretary of War, and the Military Commanders whom he may from time to time designate [...]. (6)

Here's a good example of FDR claiming his right to grant the privilege of power to lower-ranking officials. Pay attention to how this hierarchy plays out in the text of E.O. 9066.

Quote #2

[...] [the Secretary of War] or the appropriate Military Commander may determine, from which any or all persons may be excluded, and with respect to which, the right of any person to enter, remain in, or leave shall be subject to whatever restrictions the Secretary of War or the appropriate Military Commander may impose in his discretion. (6)

Things get a bit messy in this bit because it introduces a degree of arbitrariness. Even though we know the secretary of war and his commanders have been given the privilege of power, the extent of that privilege is unclear—especially when it comes to the rights of citizens.

Quote #3

The Secretary of War is hereby authorized to provide for residents of any such area who are excluded therefrom, such transportation, food, shelter, and other accommodations as may be necessary, in the judgment of the Secretary of War or the said Military Commander, and until other arrangements are made, to accomplish the purpose of this order. (7)

At least some basic dignities are upheld, like the right to food and shelter, even if they put the "basic" in "basic civil rights."