Dive into a lesser-known chapter of American history: the experiences of Italian Americans on the West Coast during World War II. Based on the real events that inspired her historical novel Beneath the Sicilian Stars, Lindsay Marie Morris brings to life the stories of families labeled "enemy aliens," forced to evacuate their homes, as well as men imprisoned in internment camps.
Through archival photos, historical context and personal storytelling, Lindsay examines the impact of Executive Order 9066 on Italian American communities, especially in the Bay Area. San Francisco residents living within 14 blocks of Fisherman's Wharf were given just days to evacuate from their homes. Contra Costa County communities, including Richmond and Martinez, were declared off-limits to enemy aliens and more than 22% of Pittsburg, California's population was displaced due to proximity to the town's steel mill and military base.
Audiences will learn about surveillance, civil rights violations and the long-buried trauma passed through generations. Ideal for libraries, museums, historical societies, universities, Italian American organizations and civic groups interested in World War II history, civil rights or immigrant stories.
Local History
Learn about the San Francisco Bay Area
History
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