“George Takei Remains Committed to Educating Americans on the Internment of Japanese Americans During WWII”

Title: “George Takei Continues to Educate on the Trauma of Japanese American Internment During WWII”

TOKYO — The incarceration of 120,000 Japanese Americans, including children, labeled enemies during World War II, is an historical experience that continues to haunt and unite the Japanese American community. For George Takei, famous for his role as Hikaru Sulu in the “Star Trek” franchise, this story is one he is determined to keep telling.

In a recent interview with The Associated Press, Takei expressed his mission to educate Americans on this dark chapter of American history. He believes that the lesson about the failure of U.S. democracy during that time has not truly been learned, even among Japanese Americans today.

At the age of 4, Takei was among those forcibly removed from their West Coast homes and interned behind barbed wires in camps like Santa Anita, Camp Rohwer, and Tule Lake. Despite the hardships, Takei’s parents displayed quiet dignity, sewing clothes, making chairs, and finding moments of joy amid the adversity.

Takei’s new picture book, “My Lost Freedom,” illustrated by Michelle Lee, shares his story with children aged 6 to 9 and their parents. It highlights the resilience and pursuit of justice that define the Japanese American experience.

The book’s message remains relevant today, as discrimination against Asian Americans persists, as seen in the anti-Asian attacks that arose during the COVID-19 pandemic. Takei hopes that stories like his will humanize his community and combat stereotypes.

Reflecting on his family’s internment and the loyalty questionnaire that led them to Tule Lake, Takei emphasized the bravery of those who answered “Yes” and joined the 442nd Regimental Combat Team to fight for the U.S. while their families remained imprisoned. This unit, with its motto “Go for Broke,” became the most decorated in U.S. military history.

Despite the injustices faced, Takei finds pride in the progress made towards recognition and reparations for Japanese American incarcerees. The story he continues to tell is a reminder of the fragility of democracy and the importance of standing up against discrimination and injustice.

As he looks back on his experiences and the lessons learned, Takei remains committed to educating and advocating for a more inclusive and just society. His voice, like his father’s before him, reminds us of the enduring legacy of resilience and determination in the face of adversity.