Author: Beneath the Sicilian Stars

Saturday, 10/24/2026
10:30 - 11:30

Suitable for:

Adults

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

Learn about historical events.

Spotlight

This program is sponsored by Friends of the San Francisco Public Library.

Attending Programs

All programs are drop-in (no registration necessary) unless otherwise noted. All SFPL locations are wheelchair accessible. For accommodations (such as ASL), call (415) 557-4557 or contact accessibility@sfpl.org. Requesting at least 3 business days in advance will help ensure availability.

This program will be conducted in English unless otherwise noted.

Notice: This event may be filmed or photographed. By participating in this event, you consent to have your likeness used for the Library’s archival purposes and promotional materials. If you do not want to be photographed, please inform a staff person or the photographer. A sticker will be provided to help identify you so that we can avoid capturing your image.

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