We often associate PTSD with military service members, but Our Lost Years, a new documentary film by Lane Nishikawa, shows how emotions and experiences can also negatively affect a person. We hope the movie and the discussion that follows will help those affected to heal from such a traumatic life experience.

Our Lost Years revisits the forced removal and mass incarceration of 120,000 Japanese and Japanese Americans during World War II; it commemorates the 75th anniversary of the signing of Executive Order 9066 in 1942 and the 30th anniversary of H.R. 442, the Civil Liberties Act of 1988. Lane traveled to seven cities, interviewing internees, their children and grandchildren, politicians, community leaders, lawyers, and activists. Our Lost Years takes the audience on a personal, comprehensive, behind-the-scenes journey, exploring the emotional and psychological impact of the forced removal and incarceration, the insurmountable ten-year battle for redress and reparations with its bitter sweet triumph, and the newfound legacy of a battered community becoming a voice of justice for all people.

Our Lost Years provides a lens into the bridge between generations, the bond between families, the loyalty to one’s country, the passion with which one fights for those they love, the loss and sadness of a terrible period in our history, and the unquestionable faith of a community to persevere and overcome whatever obstacles they faced.  Executive Order 9066 was a dark decision during a troubling time in our nation’s history. We owe it to future generations to never forget and ensure that it never happens again to any race, to any community, and most importantly, to any American.

Doors open 1:30 pm / Film starts at 2 pm