Eighth Graders Learn About Japanese Incarceration During World War II

Board of Education member Eleanor Haruko Oi shared her father's story of being incarcerated as a Japanese American during World War II with Twelve Corners Middle School eighth graders in March.

Her father, Walter Yasuo Oi, was incarcerated with his family from April 25, 1942 through Aug. 20, 1945. Japanese Americans were detained and relocated from their homes under the Alien Enemies Act of 1798. He was only 12 years old at the time. They were incarcerated at the Santa Anita Racetrack in Arcadia, Calif. before being moved to the Amache Camp in Grenada, Colo.

Walter Oi went on to be an economics professor at the University of Iowa, University of Washington, and University of Rochester. He received the Secretary of Defense Medal for Outstanding Public Service for his work leading to the adoption of an all-volunteer military.

In 2022, the Amache National Historic Site Act was signed into law, establishing it as a unit of the National Parks Service.

Ms. Oi’s presentation connects with what eighth graders are learning about the forced relocation and incarceration of Japanese Americans in social studies class. They examine the government's decision to place Japanese Americans in internment camps, the impact of this on their lives, and the racial prejudice they faced. The curriculum explores the experiences of families in the camps, the challenges they endured, and the lasting effects on their communities. It also addresses the legal and moral questions surrounding the internment/incarceration, including the eventual apology and reparations given to survivors.