Baseball as a Beacon of Resilience: Remembering Manzanar and the Legacy of Japanese American Perseverance

In the annals of American history, the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II remains a profound testament to the fragility of civil liberties in times of national crisis. This dark chapter is epitomized by the Manzanar War Relocation Center, one of ten camps where over 120,000 Japanese Americans were forcibly relocated and incarcerated following the attack on Pearl Harbor. While these camps were sites of hardship and injustice, they also became unlikely crucibles of resilience and community, with baseball emerging as a vital lifeline for those imprisoned. Recently, the historic baseball field at Manzanar was reconstructed, providing a poignant setting for a commemorative game that not only honored the memory of those who lived through this ordeal but also underscored the enduring spirit of the Japanese American community.

The Manzanar internment camp, nestled in the remote reaches of eastern California, is often overshadowed in the broader narrative of American history. Yet, for those who were imprisoned there, it represents a significant period of their lives marked by resilience and the struggle to maintain dignity amidst adversity. The recent reconstruction of the baseball field at Manzanar, spearheaded by individuals like Dan Kwong and supported by descendants of former internees, serves as a physical reminder of the past. It symbolizes both the injustices suffered and the incredible fortitude displayed by the Japanese American community. The organization of a baseball game on this hallowed ground was not merely an act of remembrance but a powerful statement about reclaiming history and honoring the perseverance of those who endured such challenging times.

Baseball, often heralded as America’s pastime, took on a unique significance within the confines of the internment camps. For the Japanese Americans held at Manzanar and other similar sites, the sport was far more than a mere diversion; it was a crucial means of preserving cultural identity and fostering a sense of normalcy. During the war years, as many as 100 baseball teams and 14 softball teams were formed at Manzanar alone, illustrating the game’s importance as a communal activity. In the face of harsh conditions and the stripping away of their civil rights, the internees used baseball as a tool for survival, creating leagues and organizing games that brought a semblance of joy and unity to an otherwise bleak existence.

The recent game at Manzanar, featuring players from both the United States and Japan, served as a tribute to the original teams formed during the internment period. The players donned uniforms reminiscent of those worn by their predecessors, and the field itself, reconstructed with painstaking attention to historical detail, echoed the makeshift diamonds of the past. This event not only honored the legacy of the internees but also highlighted the unifying power of sports, transcending borders and bridging cultures. The participation of both Japanese and non-Japanese players and spectators underscored the shared commitment to remembering this history and ensuring its lessons are not forgotten.

Central to the narrative of baseball at Manzanar is the story of Kenichi Zenimura, often regarded as the father of Japanese American baseball. Zenimura’s influence extended beyond the confines of the internment camps; he was instrumental in popularizing baseball in Japan and Korea and established the Fresno Athletic Club, which played a significant role in fostering the sport among Japanese Americans. His legacy continues to inspire, as evidenced by the participation of his great-grandson, Brandon Zenimura, in the commemorative game at Manzanar. This generational connection emphasizes the enduring impact of baseball as a cultural touchstone and a symbol of resilience within the Japanese American community.

The reconstruction of the Manzanar baseball field and the subsequent game represent a broader effort to educate and inform the public about the injustices faced by Japanese Americans during World War II. Outside of the west coast, this chapter of history is often overlooked, and events like the Manzanar game serve as vital reminders of the need for vigilance against the repetition of past mistakes. The parallels drawn between the low attendance at the amateur game and the millions cheering for contemporary Japanese baseball stars like Shohei Ohtani highlight the progress made since the days of internment, yet they also underscore the ongoing challenges posed by racism and discrimination.

Shohei Ohtani, a modern-day baseball phenomenon, embodies the strides made in overcoming racial barriers within the sport. Eighty years ago, a player of Ohtani’s caliber would have been excluded from the World Series due to the pervasive racism and xenophobia of the era. Today, his success and popularity are celebrated worldwide, reflecting a significant shift in societal attitudes. However, the presence of discriminatory policies and rhetoric in contemporary politics serves as a sobering reminder that the fight for equality and justice is far from over. The organizers of the Manzanar game hope that by shining a light on this part of history, they can contribute to ongoing efforts to combat racism and promote understanding.

The Manzanar game also serves as a powerful demonstration of how sports can transcend social and cultural barriers. Baseball, with its long history of bringing people together, has the unique ability to foster unity and healing. For the Japanese American community, the game at Manzanar was more than just a sporting event; it was a symbol of hope, healing, and remembrance. It provided an opportunity for players and spectators alike to reflect on the resilience and determination of those who came before them and to honor their legacy by continuing to fight for justice and equality.

The restoration of the Manzanar baseball field is a testament to the dedication of individuals like Dan Kwong and the National Historic Site Superintendent, who recognize the importance of preserving this piece of history. Their efforts ensure that future generations will have the opportunity to learn about the internment of Japanese Americans and the vital role that baseball played in helping them endure such a trying period. By reclaiming this space and using it as a platform to share their history and experiences, the Japanese American community is actively contributing to a broader understanding of American history and the need for progress in the future.

As the game at Manzanar becomes an annual tradition, it will continue to educate people about this dark period in American history and the resilience of the Japanese American community. The event serves as a reminder of the dangers of discrimination and the importance of unity and equality in society. It is a powerful example of how sports can be used as a tool for education and change, breaking down barriers and bringing people together in pursuit of a common goal.

The legacy of baseball at Manzanar and other internment camps is a testament to the strength and perseverance of the Japanese American community. Despite facing immense adversity, they found ways to maintain their cultural identity and foster a sense of normalcy through the game of baseball. The recent game at Manzanar not only honors this legacy but also serves as a call to action for all who seek to ensure that the injustices of the past are never repeated.

In conclusion, the story of baseball at Manzanar is one of resilience, perseverance, and the unifying power of sports. It is a reminder of the mistakes made in the past and the need for progress in the future. As we reflect on this history, we must also recognize the ongoing challenges posed by racism and discrimination and commit to working towards a more just and equitable society. The game at Manzanar is a powerful symbol of hope, healing, and remembrance, and it serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Japanese American community.