The Destructive Impact of Racism and Ethnic Discrimination in They Called Us Enemy

In the graphic novel They Called Us Enemy, George Takei shares his personal account of the injustices faced by Japanese Americans during World War II. The title and cover art of the book vividly depict the struggles and hardships experienced by individuals who were forcibly relocated to internment camps. The image of a police officer wielding a gun as families line up to enter cramped living quarters captures the fear and confusion felt by many, including a young boy who gazes back with a mix of disbelief and sadness. This essay will explore the themes of racism and ethnic discrimination as portrayed in Takei's memoir.

The story begins with the issuance of "Civilian Exclusion Orders" in 1942, which mandated the relocation of Japanese Americans to internment camps (Takei et al. 23). Despite being law-abiding citizens, families like Takei's were subjected to discriminatory laws and faced harsh penalties for noncompliance. The unjust treatment and lack of due process left many, including children, bewildered and traumatized. Takei recalls asking his brother about their sudden relocation, only to receive uncertain answers (Takei et al. 7). This lack of understanding and the sense of being unfairly targeted took a toll on the mental well-being of those affected.

Prejudices and stereotypes further exacerbated the suffering of Japanese Americans during this dark period. The loyalty questionnaire posed to Takei's parents reflected the assumption that individuals of Japanese descent were inherently disloyal to the United States (Takei et al. 110). The biased nature of such inquiries perpetuated harmful stereotypes and fueled ethnic hatred. The dehumanizing treatment endured by families during their journey to the internment camps, as well as the ongoing discrimination faced even after their release, underscored the lasting impact of racial profiling.

The violation of constitutional rights and democratic principles was a central aspect of the injustices faced by Japanese Americans. The denial of basic freedoms, such as freedom of speech and property ownership, stripped individuals of their dignity and autonomy. Takei's account of his mother's frozen bank account and the confiscation of their belongings highlighted the economic and social devastation caused by discriminatory policies (Takei et al. 24). The disregard for the rule of law and the erosion of civil liberties served as a stark reminder of the dangers of unchecked racism and xenophobia.

Reflecting on the past and acknowledging the injustices suffered by Japanese Americans is crucial for promoting understanding and preventing future atrocities. Takei's realization that the internment was a betrayal of American ideals underscores the importance of confronting uncomfortable truths (Takei et al. 173). By learning from history and embracing diversity, society can strive to create a more just and inclusive future.

In conclusion, They Called Us Enemy serves as a poignant reminder of the destructive impact of racism and ethnic discrimination. The experiences of Japanese Americans during World War II shed light on the enduring consequences of prejudice and injustice. By confronting the past and promoting empathy and understanding, we can work towards a more equitable and compassionate society.

Work Cited

Takei, George, et al. They Called Us Enemy. IDW Publishing, 2019.