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The birth of Yuki Shizuka
When I was born, my father had already left for america. our small town in Tokushima was quiet. We were rice farmers, and poor. My mother and I went going to America to seek a better status and jobs. my father sent us money from time to time, but it was barely enough. I write this journal to preserve the memory of my immigration for the coming generations would not forget. forgetting is the worst crime a man could commit. -
Coming to Angel Island
The boat to Angel Island was very cramped. We could not afford first class travel so my mother and I were put into the steerage of the ship. the people there were shoving, shoving for a right to space in that area of chaos. nights were better, but I was still relieved when we got off of that ship and onto the shores of angel Island. We spent about two weeks on that ship according to my mother, but neither of us recalls her name. I was very young on the ship, and scared. Scared of a shipwreck. -
Angel Island
When I was a young girl, I expected Angel Island to be peaceful. Neat rows of people waiting to be examined. I was so wrong. barely contained lines of people waiting for examination. wails of dissapointed rejects. And then the marriage. A couple was getting denied access, so they married each other there so they would be admitted. I do not miss Angel island, but it got me where it is now, so it is necessary. -
Join Dad in San Francisco
Today we finally got to meet dad! I haven't seen him for almost a year, but now i can see him whenever. my mom and dad were crying together. then dad took us to his small apartment just outside the city slums. As we walk, I can see that all is not well with my dad. he walks with a slow and tired gait. his face, smiling now, has bags under its eyes. I can see he has been working hard, and I am sorry he has not had time to rest. -
The chinese exclusion act
A horrible thing has happened! chinese immigration has been banned. racism has been an issue for us, and it is a hard thing. but this is insane! why would america ban the coming of its best workers? I do not understand the logic in such an act. When I realise that the wooden halls of angel island will go unused for so long, it makes me sad inside. I am sorry for those who could not come to the land of the golden mountain. -
Getting a factory job
now that i am 15 years old I can finally go to work. I will be working at the same fatory as my dad, making cloth for clothing and other things. I am very excited about this.
I am also a little worried too. After seeing my dad come home late each night with tired hands and a exhausted face, I am not sure if I want this to be my own. But I will do what I can for my country. I hope they accpet me!
