"They Called Us Enemy" is a graphic memoir by George Takei, recounting his experiences as a Japanese American child during World War II, when he and his family were forcibly interned in camps due to wartime hysteria and prejudice against Japanese Americans. The main conflict revolves around the discrimination and loss of civil liberties faced by Takei and his community, highlighting the broader issue of racial injustice.
The conflict is addressed through the lens of resilience and advocacy for civil rights, as Takei and others work to raise awareness about the injustices of internment and the importance of standing up against oppression. The resolution comes through reflection and activism that seeks to prevent such violations from happening in the future.
Direct Quotes:
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“We were not enemy aliens. We were Americans.” (p. 40)
- This quote emphasizes the core conflict of identity and loyalty faced by Japanese Americans during the war.
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“The lesson we learned is that we must be vigilant, against the encroachments of injustice.” (p. 232)
- This passage illustrates Takei's resolution to speak out against injustice, advocating for vigilance in the face of discrimination.
These quotes encapsulate the emotional and social conflicts of the narrative and illustrate the journey from victimhood to active engagement in civil rights.
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