Books Quote by Tamlyn Tomita
“I remember reading one of those big history texts in elementary school, and in that whole book there was one paragraph that mentioned that Japanese-Americans were interned. I went home and asked my father, 'You weren't, were you?' He said, 'Yes, I was.' I was shocked.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Oral history interview, Tamlyn Tomita, 2015
The speaker discovers that their father was among those interned during WWII, revealing personal family impact of a broader historical injustice.
In simple terms: A child learns a parent was interned, exposing hidden family trauma.
Key Takeaway
Acknowledge and discuss past injustices to heal.
Themes
history
family
justice
memory
identity
Mood
reflective
somber
Type
personal
historical
educational
When to use this quote
- family conversations
- educational curricula
- community memorials
- personal research
Key Concepts
World War II
civil liberties
racial discrimination
Questions to Reflect On
- How does learning personal family history change your view of national narratives?
- What steps can we take to ensure such injustices are not repeated?
A Different Perspective
Personal recollection may not capture the full scope of the policy's impact.
