The Way Ahead
Synopsis
Three families from relocation centers secure jobs in agriculture, machine shops, and hospitals in the Midwest during their transition to civilian life in 1943.
Synopsis
Masako Takayoshi, a former head nurse, adjusts to life in the Midwest after leaving a relocation center in 1943. Alongside other Nisei families, she finds work in various industries, including agriculture and manufacturing. The War Relocation Authority assists these families in securing jobs and housing, as they transition to civilian life. The film captures their experiences, from operating machinery in defense plants to enjoying parks and shopping in their new communities, marking a significant shift in their lives.
Deep Dive
Why Watch
- Meet Ken Tsukioka, a former orchardist turned machinist.
- Find out how families adapt to life outside relocation centers.
- See the diverse jobs people take on in their new communities.
Did You Know
- Roy Emoto worked on a farm in Illinois after being relocated from Tule Lake.
- Masako Takayoshi was a teaching supervisor at the University of Washington before evacuation.
- Ruth Nicky transitioned from working at her father's fruit stand to operating a turret lathe.
Perfect For
Frequently Asked Questions
What jobs did former residents of the relocation center take up in the Midwest?
Former residents took jobs such as precision parts manufacturing, nursing, and farming. For example, Ken Tsukioka worked in a defense plant, and Masako Takayoshi was an assistant head nurse.
What activities can families enjoy outside of the relocation center?
Families can enjoy parks, playgrounds, zoos, and beaches, as well as shopping and watching movies in air-conditioned theaters.
What was Roy Emoto's occupation before and after evacuation?
Before evacuation, Roy Emoto farmed near Walnut Grove in California, and after, he worked on a farm project in Illinois.
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