Licensing

Letter to Clara Breed from Aiko Kubo, Poston, Arizona, June 20, 1944

Aiko was a sophomore at San Diego High School when the war began. She told Joanne Oppenheim, author of "Dear Miss Breed," in an interview that she really felt the prejudice against the Japanese Americans as she was growing up.

Transcription:

June 20, 1944 / Dear Miss Breed, / I just received your lovely note a few minutes ago and would like to take this opportunity to thank you for what you have done, not only for me, but for all of us in Poston. Words cannot express how we feel about you and several others whom the war has not affected in your attitude toward us. / Recently, I applied for college entrance to Hamline University in Saint Paul, Minnesota through the National Japanese American Student Relocation Council. However, I don't know whether I can get in or not, since the quota may have already been reached. I certainly hope not! / Both Shizuye and Yoshiko were married last year, so the house is quite empty now. However, Irene makes enough noise to make up for their absence. I imagine you'd be surprised to see her now--she's almost as tall as I am, and lankier. My brother, George, is hardly ever home, as he spends his time roaming around the camp with his own "gang." / We received our annuals a few days ago. I'm sorry to say that I couldn't continue my work on the Annual as Art Editor, since I finished high school in February. However, I know that I left that job in capable hands--I believe you remember June Watanabe? She did a wonderful job!! As soon as I have most of the signatures of the seniors, I will send the annual to you so that you may see what school life in Poston is like. We, of Parker Valley Hi, are proud of the fact that our school is accredited by the state--and we owe all that to our able principal, Miss Cushman, who is outside just now. / I'm enclosing a snapshot of myself which was taken by a visiting serviceman--(cameras not being allowed on the project for civilian use.) Incidentally, all the boys in camp are being inducted into the army every week. Some who volunteered are already overseas and taking active part in the invasion. I'm sure they have quite a lot to fight for!! / I shall end this letter with a "thank you" from the very bottom of my heart. / Sincerely, / Aiko Kubo / [inscribed on photograph] / Miss Breed- / Always / Aiko