Knowing her grandparents’ story has made all the difference:
“I…knew that my grandparents were very fond of the people at Topaz and thought of them as friends,” writes Cynthia. “Given the situation, I had a hard time understanding if the friendship was mutual. I wondered if my grandparents were naïve to think their fondness was reciprocated. Now I understand, and it makes me proud.” 3
In 2022, Cynthia brought her daughters to the Topaz Stories Exhibit at the Utah State Capitol. “I want to make sure my children know and understand the significance (of this story, in which their great-grandparents played a small but important part).”
Thank you, Cynthia, for sharing your story about your grandmother. She was very good at portraying life in Topaz; her artistry was superb. Hope her other artwork can be found somewhere.
I was 7, going on 8, the year we were interned. I do remember some things, but not all. So every artwork/photos help to bring back some memory of that era.
In the meantime, Happy New Year and all the best for 2024. — jun, san francisco, ca
Thank you for the kind words Jun. I appreciate you reading and commenting on the story and am happy to have been able to share with the help of Topaz Stories.
My mother was just a baby and my grandparents have past. It’s so nice to hear from someone that experienced it first hand. It’s so important to remember, understand and share so it never happens again.
Have a wonderful New Year-
Cynthia, this is a beautiful story. Thank you for sharing your and your family’s experience and relationship with the Topaz internment camps. Your daughters look very happy to be at this amazing exhibit.