Michi Challenges History: From Farm Girl to Costume Designer to Relentless Seeker of the Truth: The Life of Michi Nishiura Weglyn

Michi Nishiura Weglyn, the daughter of Japanese immigrants, was imprisoned in Arizonas Gila River concentration camp during WWII. She later became a costume designer for Broadway and worked as the wardrobe designer for popular television personalities. After the US Attorney General denied the existence of concentration camps, Michi embarked on an eight-year quest to expose and account for their existence, leading to the passage of the Civil Liberties Act of 1988. This documentary showcases her fight for the truth and justice.

Format: Hardback
Length: 160 pages
Publication date: 21 April 2023
Publisher: WW Norton & Co

Born to Japanese immigrants in 1920, Michi Nishiura Weglyn experienced the harsh realities of life in a concentration camp during World War II. Despite the hardships she faced, Michi's determination and talent led her to pursue a successful career as a costume designer for Broadway. Her work on iconic productions such as "The King and I" and "West Side Story" earned her recognition and acclaim.

However, Michi's journey did not end there. She also made a significant impact on television as the wardrobe designer for some of the most popular personalities of the 50s and early 60s. Her attention to detail and ability to create stunning outfits made her a sought-after professional in the industry.

In 1968, Michi faced a shocking revelation when the US Attorney General made a televised statement that concentration camps in America never existed. This statement contradicted Michi's own experiences and the accounts of countless others who had been imprisoned in these camps. Determined to expose the truth, Michi embarked on an eight-year solo quest through libraries and the National Archives.

Her research was exhaustive, and her findings were groundbreaking. Michi discovered that the US government had imprisoned Japanese Americans in concentration camps during World War II, even though they were American citizens by birth. Her findings became a major catalyst for passage of the Civil Liberties Act of 1988, which officially recognized the wrongs committed against Japanese Americans during the war.

Through her book, "Michi Challenges History," Michi shares her personal story and her unwavering commitment to seeking justice. She challenges the historical narrative that has been perpetuated for decades and exposes the truth about the concentration camps. Michi's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of never forgetting the past.

In conclusion, Michi Nishiura Weglyn's journey is a remarkable one. From her humble beginnings as the daughter of Japanese immigrants to her successful career as a costume designer and wardrobe designer, she faced adversity and fought for justice. Her research on the existence of concentration camps during World War II led to the passage of the Civil Liberties Act of 1988, which recognized the wrongs committed against Japanese Americans. Michi's story is a reminder of the importance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of adversity, and of the power of truth and perseverance to bring about change.

Weight: 456g
Dimension: 161 x 237 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781324015888