George Takei: Why I love a country that once betrayed me

The speaker shares his family's history, starting with his grandparents' immigration from Japan to America. He recounts the impact of Pearl Harbor, leading to the internment of Japanese-Americans, including his family. He describes life in internment camps and the challenges faced post-war. Through conversations with his father, he learns about democracy and civic engagement. The narrative highlights the bravery of Japanese-American soldiers in WWII and their legacy. The speaker concludes with a commitment to uphold the ideals of democracy and pride in his identity as a gay Japanese-American.

What was the primary mission of the speaker's starship crew?

• To conquer new worlds

• To defend against alien threats

• To explore strange new worlds

• To establish trade routes

What event led to the forced relocation of Japanese-Americans?

• The end of World War I

• The attack on Hiroshima

• The bombing of Pearl Harbor

• The signing of the Treaty of Versailles

How did the speaker describe his childhood experience in the internment camps?

• As a confusing mystery

• As a luxurious vacation

• As a normal part of life

• As a thrilling adventure

What challenges did the speaker's family face after being released from the camps?

• They moved to a different country

• They were welcomed with open arms

• They faced hostility and poverty

• They immediately regained their wealth

What did the speaker learn from his father about American democracy?

• It is a fixed system with no need for change

• It is only for certain races

• It is dependent on good people

• It is perfect and infallible

How were young Japanese-Americans initially treated when they volunteered for military service?

• They were given high-ranking positions

• They were welcomed with open arms

• They were denied service and labeled as enemies

• They were sent to the Pacific front

What was the significant achievement of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team?

• They broke the Gothic Line in Europe

• They defended the US mainland

• They negotiated peace treaties

• They conquered the Pacific Islands

What did President Truman say to the returning 442nd unit?

• "You fought not only the enemy but prejudice, and you won."

• "You fought bravely but lost."

• "You fought for freedom and justice."

• "You fought only the enemy and won."

What legacy did the speaker's heroes leave for him?

• A legacy of wealth and power

• A legacy of responsibility and democracy

• A legacy of isolation and defeat

• A legacy of fear and suspicion

How does the speaker identify himself at the end of the talk?

• As a defeated individual

• As a proud American

• As a confused citizen

• As a reluctant participant