See recent coverage in the Mercury News, July 8, 2019.
The Topaz Stories Exhibit opening took place on June 1, drawing about 90 people to hear four contributors share their stories.
Gail Hoshiyama Nanbu read her story, “The Quality Market,” about a Mormon couple in Delta, Utah, who took a pair of Japanese-American brothers from San Francisco (Gail’s father and uncle) into their home.
Jonathan Hirabayashi shared the story of his parents’ courtship and marriage in Tanforan Assembly Center (“The Proposal”).
Kerrily Kitano told her mother’s story of being “Adopted by Quakers” in Pennsyvania so she could leave Topaz and continue her education at a private school.
Eric Yatabe shared his father Jon’s story, “Toy Story.” Jon was a child in Topaz and has vivid memories of the toys lovingly crafted by Issei men in camp.
Twenty stories are on display at the J-Sei community center, but all 55 or so stories are available in print in binders in the exhibit room. The exhibit has been extended through September 30, 2019, so if you have a free afternoon and like to read, stop by (after 2 pm) and spend an hour or so with these stories.
If you have a small group, call to schedule a visit. You can also request a docent (if available).
Some photos from the opening:
Photos courtesy of Kimi Kodani Hill, Ann Tamaki Dion, Leona Lau, Susan Kwong, and Barbara Saito.
Ruth,
Thank you so much for providing the Topaz Stories to AAUW. I find them fascinating, though sad. I had 2 friends who were sent to Tanforan and then to a camp. I heard a few stories from them, but they didn’t like to talk much about their experiences. One was allowed to leave the camp to finish her studies at UCLA, which I thought was amazing. I don’t know how she was able to study in the barracks though. I look forward to reading more Topaz stories. Thanks again.