Teacher Workshop: Santa Anita Race Track and Temporary Detention Centers during World War II

Join us for this special teacher workshop focused on the temporary detention centers many Japanese Americans were first sent to upon being forcibly removed from their home in 1942. These so-called “Assembly Centers” served as temporary prisons while America’s more permanent concentration camps were constructed. 

This workshop includes learning at JANM and a visit to the stables of the Santa Anita race track, which served as one such temporary detention center during World War II. As a still-functioning horse racing track, historic tours of Santa Anita are rare, and we’re delighted to be able to include such a visit as a part of this workshop. Prior to the visit, we’ll use JANM’s collection and resources to form a foundational understanding of temporary detention centers like Santa Anita and the conditions faced at many of them. 

Advanced registration is required. Space is limited to seventeen participants; first come, first served. 

Registration includes:

• Facilitated content exploration, activities, and reflection
• Transportation to and from Santa Anita race track
• Tour of Santa Anita stables
• Lunch
• Take-home resources

Image: Yuri Kochiyama, Santa Anita Assembly Center, October 10, 1942, sketch on paper, Japanese American National Museum, Gift of Mrs. Yuri Kochiyama, 96.42.4