I hate to admit it, she said, but for all we hear about the States, Canada's capacity for racism seems even worse. Worse? The American Japanese were interned as we were in Canada, and sent off to concentration camps, but their property wasn't liquidated as ours was. And look how quickly the communities reestablished themselves in Los Angeles and San Francisco. We weren't allowed to return to the West Coast like that. We've never recovered from the dispersal policy. But of course that was the government's whole idea-to make sure we'd never be visible again. Official racism was blatant in Canada.
The character reflects on the overt racism experienced in Canada compared to the United States, despite the common perception of American prejudice. She acknowledges that while both countries interned Japanese citizens during the war, their experiences and repercussions differed significantly. Unlike their American counterparts, Japanese Canadians faced property confiscation and were not allowed to return to their original communities, which exacerbated their struggles and made recovery much more difficult.
This insight highlights the systematic efforts by the Canadian government to diminish the visibility and contributions of Japanese Canadians. The character's realization of Canada's historical injustices suggests a deep sense of betrayal and loss, emphasizing the lasting impact of such policies on individuals and communities. The quote encapsulates the painful legacy of racism in Canada, demonstrating how official actions can have long-term effects on marginalized groups.
