Welcome Educators
We’re excited to share a free, multimedia curriculum resource created through a collaboration between TomKat Media and El Teatro Campesino with support from the California State Library. A curriculum that teaches lessons about the incarceration of Japanese American citizens during WW 2, as illuminated by Luis Valdez in his play entitled Valley of the Heart.
Designed for Grades 4–8, our engaging guide invites students to explore the story of “Valley of the Heart” by Luis Valdez—a sweeping California epic that examines the tension between America’s ideals and its actions. Written by one of the masters of contemporary theater, the artistic material offers rich opportunities for historical inquiry, cultural reflection, and meaningful classroom discussion.
The Resources Include:
A five-episode radio drama that brings the story of “Valley of the Heart” to life
The Resources Include:
A comprehensive, multi-unit curriculum guide aligned for classroom use which includes prompts and hands on activities to spark critical thinking and deeper learning
Free resources,
download the curriculum
The Montaño Family in “Valley of the Heart” production 2013. El Teatro Campesino Playhouse, San Juan Bautista. Photo by Robert Eliason
Tito Montaño comes home after Boot Camp in “Valley of the Heart” production 2013. El Teatro Campesino Playhouse, San Juan Bautista. Photo by Robert Eliason
The Yamaguchi Family in “Valley of the Heart” production 2013. El Teatro Campesino Playhouse, San Juan Bautista. Photo by Robert Eliason
Free Resources
Curriculum & Podcast
The multi-day unit consists of three sections:
I. Building Historical Context: Learners gain a historical background for reading, viewing, or listening to Valley of the Heart. Attention is given to Japanese American and Mexican American farmers and the impact of World War II-era incarceration on family-owned farms.
II. Engaging Valley of the Heart: Learners conduct an in-depth study of a character in Valley of the Heart. Using an interactive pedagogy called the “hot seat,” students embody a character and delve into some of their deepest feelings and conflicts.
III. Reflecting on Valley of the Heart: Learners investigate the agricultural legacies of Japanese and Mexican American farmers by studying a current-day family-owned farm.
“Valley of the Heart” - An epic story of love, family, and country
The Yamaguchis and the Montaños are two immigrant families struggling to provide a future for their American-born children after the Great Depression on the farmland they share. But as their oldest children fall in love—secretly—the attack on Pearl Harbor throws these Mexican and Japanese American families into uncertainty and turmoil. When the Yamaguchis are interned along with thousands of other Japanese Americans, allegiances are tested, heroes are made, and the two young lovers must find a way to stay loyal to each other—and their country.
Radio Drama
The radio drama “VALLEY OF THE HEART” is based on the play by Luis Valdez, the legendary creator of Zoot Suit and hero of Latinx theatre.
“Luis Valdez’s direction is daringly imaginative. ‘Valley of the Heart’ celebrates diversity as the true ingredient of America’s enduring greatness. It is an oasis from cable news. Love binds the story.”
– Charles McNulty, Los Angeles Times
*Note the curriculum may make reference to viewing “Valley of the Heart” – a feature film is in development, but not available at this time.
These resources were made possible by the California Civil Liberties Public Education program and the California State Library
The California Civil Liberties Public Education Program (California Civil Liberties Program) funds projects that educate Californians about the Japanese American experience during World War II often in conjunction with parallel civil rights violations or civil liberties injustices. The program is funded by the State of California.
These resources are being offered free of charge to educators. If you find it valuable and are able, we welcome donations to help sustain and support ongoing educational programming.
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