Hawaii Nikkei Legacy Exhibit

Life in Hawaii During World War II

The Nikkei in Hawaii demonstrated their patriotism and loyalty to America. They worked in many ways to support the U.S. war effort such as purchasing war bonds and tending Victory gardens to grow food.

Despite these efforts, the U.S. Government and many in the Hawaii community continued to view the Nikkei with suspicion. Racial prejudice still limited their ability to work and live freely within American society.

Boy Scouts collecting aluminum pots for the war effort (date unknown).

Children wearing gas masks during World War II (December 1942).

Nikkei women formed the Women’s War Service Association to perform patriotic duties. These women are collecting clothing for the Philippines (date unknown).

Women folding gauze for battlefront bandages (ca. 1943).