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Enemy Alien

This documentary tells the story of the frustration and injustice experienced by Japanese Canadians, who fought long and hard to be accepted as Canadians.
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This documentary tells the story of the frustration and injustice experienced by Japanese Canadians, who fought long and hard to be accepted as Canadians.

History - Canada - 1920-1945 Cultural Diversity and Multiculturalism All subjects
  • director
    Jeanette Lerman
  • editing
    Jeanette Lerman
  • executive producer
    Wolf Koenig
  • commentary
    Stanley Jackson
    Jeanette Lerman
  • camera
    Eugene Boyko
  • animation camera
    Raymond Dumas
    Simon Leblanc
  • sound editing
    John Knight
  • re-recording
    Jean-Pierre Joutel
  • consultant
    David Suzuki
  • narrator
    Stanley Jackson
  • music
    Eldon Rathburn

Education

Ages 14 to 17
School subjects
Civics/Citizenship - Human Rights Diversity - Diversity in Communities History - World War II Social Studies - Social History

Before viewing, students brainstorm ideas about Japanese in Canada, including WW2. After viewing, have students create a timeline of Japanese immigration in Canada. Outline the War Measures Act. Does it resemble any other legislation today? (ex: US Patriot Act, Canada Anti-terrorism Act.) Who might be targeted by this legislation? Research statistics on Japanese Canadian population growth and economic status. What other  groups have endured similar treatment in Canada or throughout the world? Have students write historical impact statements as victims of persecution.

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