Responses

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Responses

The experience immigrants had to endure was not only part of history, but also affected their lives and the generations ahead. Poems were etched on the barracks inside the building describing their turmoil and regret. The way some words are used can help determine the psychological point of view. Current immigrants have responded to the poems and shared their thoughts.

Sau, emigrated here in 1981: "I felt the pain they were going through with their words and it was not right what was done to them. They had no justice and there was too much discrimination. People are suppose to be equal no matter is they're black, white or yellow people. I can tell that the Americans were just jealous when the Chinese first arrived. They never did welcome them with arms wide open, and it was hard to build a life in America."

Kue, emigrated here in 1980: "I feel lucky now that things are equal and we did not have to endure the hardship the past Chinese immigrants had to go through. It's a new generation and things are more equal around us. I do understand how they felt though. They had their hopes up for America, but when they got over here they were only treated as if they were dogs. That was the past, now we can prosper and freedom is bestowed upon us."

Dung, emigrated here in 1989: "I felt connected, the words are basically a repeat of my own. I feel like I've walked in their shoes. I feel what they feel."

Van, emigrated here in 1990 "I feel their pain through their words. I have felt what they've went through only on a smaller scale."

Donna, third generation here in the United States: "This poem is a standard example of how oppression and discrimination played out for the early immigrants who were considered less than human. They were subjected to unusually harsh examinations and treatment. Those that survived are very courageous."

Also, click here to see actual interviews with former Angel Island detainees.