7.2 Life in assembly centers and internment camps

Japanese Americans faced harsh living conditions in internment camps during World War II. Cramped barracks, inadequate sanitation, and extreme desert climates made daily life a struggle. Despite these challenges, internees created vibrant communities through sports, arts, and cultural activities.

The camps disrupted traditional family structures and caused long-lasting psychological trauma. Community leaders emerged to organize events, advocate for rights, and preserve Japanese culture. These efforts helped internees maintain a sense of identity and dignity in the face of unjust confinement.

Living Conditions and Camp Life

Conditions in internment camps

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• Housing: Hastily constructed barracks with tar paper walls led to lack of privacy and cramped living spaces accommodating multiple families (Tule Lake, Manzanar)
• Sanitation issues: Communal bathrooms and showers without partitions caused discomfort while inadequate sewage systems led to health risks
• Climate challenges: Extreme temperatures in desert locations reached 100℉+ in summer and below freezing in winter causing discomfort and illness (Minidoka, Topaz)
• Food and nutrition: Mass-produced, unfamiliar meals often consisted of canned goods and government surplus led to nutritional deficiencies and cultural disconnection
• Healthcare: Understaffed medical facilities with shortages of supplies and equipment resulted in inadequate care for chronic conditions and emergencies
• Education: Makeshift schools with limited resources and often unqualified teachers disrupted children's learning and academic progress
• Employment: Low-wage jobs within the camps ($12-$19/month) provided limited opportunities for skill development or career advancement

Activities within camps

• Sports and athletics: Baseball leagues and basketball tournaments fostered community spirit and provided distraction from confinement
• Arts and crafts: Painting, drawing classes, and woodworking allowed creative expression and production of practical items (furniture, decorations)
• Performing arts: Theater groups staged plays while music ensembles and choirs performed concerts preserving cultural traditions
• Cultural preservation: Japanese language schools and traditional dance classes maintained connections to heritage
• Religious activities: Buddhist services and Christian worship provided spiritual comfort and community gathering spaces
• Social clubs: Youth organizations and women's groups organized events and support networks
• Camp newspapers: Internee-run publications (Manzanar Free Press, Topaz Times) disseminated information and fostered community engagement

Family and Community Dynamics

Impact on families and individuals

• Disruption of traditional family structures: Loss of parental authority and role reversals between generations strained family relationships
• Psychological effects: Depression, anxiety, and feelings of shame and betrayal led to long-term trauma for many internees
• Intergenerational conflicts: Differing views on assimilation and language barriers between Issei and Nisei created tension within families
• Educational challenges: Interrupted schooling and limited resources for academic growth impacted children's future opportunities
• Loss of privacy: Communal living arrangements and lack of personal space eroded individual autonomy and family intimacy
• Economic hardships: Loss of property and businesses coupled with limited income opportunities in camps ($12-$19/month) caused financial strain

Role of community leaders

• Block managers and camp councils: Liaised between internees and administration organizing community events and addressing grievances
• Japanese American Citizens League (JACL): Advocated for civil rights while cooperating with government authorities often causing controversy
• Religious leaders: Provided spiritual guidance and organized interfaith activities fostering community cohesion
• Cultural preservation committees: Organized traditional celebrations (Obon festivals) and taught Japanese arts and customs
• Legal aid groups: Assisted with loyalty questionnaires and challenged detention through court cases (Korematsu v. United States)
• Education committees: Established schools within camps and recruited and trained teachers to maintain educational continuity
• Health and welfare organizations: Coordinated medical care and supported elderly and disabled internees improving overall camp conditions