“They were Patriotic Americans, and to prove their Loyalty they Submitted. Their Country no longer Trusted them, no longer Citizens. An Unjust, Immoral and Unconstitutional Internment.”
3/1/2024

A Day of Dialogue

Our teacher messed up her lesson plan so I guess we’re going to go to one of the talk sessions after all. My friends said that it’s going to be boring, I haven’t gotten to go, my other classes didn’t. Let’s see..

We funneled into the library and sat down in long rows. A short old man, well dressed in a suit with an American flag pined just above his heart. He pointed to it and spoke, “I’m a Patriotic American, and I am going to talk about the Japanese American Internment.”

Everyone has heard, read about or taught it, but they don’t really talk about it. Face to face, up close and personal. He didn’t have a mic but he spoke eloquently and projected his speech very well; I wanted to listen to every word. I learned a lot, about his experience as someone whose parents went through that time. He reminded me of my grandfather but I’m not sure how, his speech was very heartening to behold.

I left the library inspired, with more knowledge and understanding about the experiences and predicament of those who were affected. He didn’t just focus on the wrong doings or terrible experiences, but also about people who spoke out and have tried to help fight the injustice. He and his family has worked with those original organizations, senators, and those in power to try to fix the injustice and raise awareness.

re·solve verb decide firmly on a course of action.

There are other definitions but this one is what I would like to refer to. When I have witnessed people talk about their achievements those who stand out the most and impact me are those who can eloquently describe how they decided firmly on a course of action. They found something to do. Something important and special. They were the doers, carrying out their course of action well. That’s how you prevent injustice and improve society. Embodying the qualities of resolve, morality, and empathy. Knowing what is right, what people need or how they feel, and actually taking action is what will change the future.