Salt Lake City Cemetery Reveals Japanese History

Troy Watanabe highlights the segregated history and military legacy of the Japanese American section.

Updated on Oct. 31, 2026 in Latter-Day Saints

Salt Lake City Cemetery Reveals Japanese History

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The Salt Lake City Cemetery honors the local Japanese American community, shedding light on a history of segregation and military service. The site preserves the legacy of those who were once forced to bury their loved ones in separate grounds.

Why it matters

Understanding this history provides context for the racial tensions experienced by Japanese American families in Salt Lake City following the attack on Pearl Harbor. It serves as a reminder of the significant sacrifices made by local veterans during World War II.

The Salt Lake City Cemetery spans 178 years of operation and contains roughly 130,000 burial sites. Japanese families relocated loved ones from a lower area to the current section located above 11th Avenue.

The players

Troy Watanabe

He is the individual who recently shared the historical narrative of the Japanese American section at the local cemetery.

The details

Historically, families were forced to bury their relatives in designated sections separate from the main cemetery grounds due to rising tensions. Today, the area serves as a significant site to recognize those who served in the U.S. military during World War II.

Late 1800s: Japanese individuals began immigrating to Salt Lake City.
December 7, 1941: Japan attacked Pearl Harbor, escalating local racial tensions.
World War II: Japanese American soldiers served in key U.S. military units.

Culture Shift

This history fits into the larger societal movement to reclaim and recognize the contributions of marginalized groups historically excluded from mainstream records. It mirrors national efforts to address the impact of policies like the internment and segregation of Japanese Americans during World War II.

Residents can visit the section above 11th Avenue to better understand the city's complex ethnic history and the military contributions of local families. This site serves as an educational resource for those looking to engage with local history beyond traditional narratives.

The takeaway

Preserving these burial records allows the community to honor the sacrifices made by families during a period of significant exclusion. Residents are encouraged to seek out upcoming segments that will feature a monument dedicated to these veterans.