A family’s story of resilience during the Japanese American incarceration period is highlighted through the art of bird pin carving. The grandfather of the author, known as jichan, found solace in creating intricate bird pins while confined in a camp in the Arizona desert. These pins, made from scrap materials and inspired by nature, became a form of currency and a source of income for many Japanese Americans post-war. The legacy of these bird pins lives on, symbolizing freedom and resilience despite adversity. This story sheds light on a lesser-known aspect of history and the power of art in challenging circumstances.
https://www.hcn.org/issues/56-4/the-untold-history-of-japanese-american-bird-pins/