PROJECT HEIRLOOM
Bringing Japanese American history to life with AI-powered storytelling.
During World War II, over 120,000 Japanese Americans—two-thirds of whom were U.S. citizens—were forcibly removed from their homes and incarcerated in government-run camps across the United States. Stripped of their rights and livelihoods, they were unjustly imprisoned solely because of their ancestry. Despite these hardships, many demonstrated resilience, building communities within the camps and serving in the U.S. military to prove their loyalty.
EXPLORE THE STORIES
EXPLORE THE STORIES
Hear firsthand accounts from five individuals who lived through the Japanese American incarceration.
Project Heirloom uses StoryFile’s Conversa AI technology, which powers an interactive storytelling experience like never before. This cutting-edge technology allows users to ask questions and receive responses from pre-recorded video interviews, making it feel as though they are having a real conversation with those who lived through history.
For the first time ever, students and educators can ask an internment camp survivor their questions and receive personalized answers from pre-recorded testimonies.
Educational Resources
For Educators
Curriculum guides, lesson plans, and activities aligned with history and social studies standards.
For Students
Learn how to engage with the StoryFiles, explore personal accounts, and troubleshoot any issues.
Community Stories
Links to historical archives, primary source documents, and academic resources.
ABOUT PROJECT HEIRLOOM
Project Heirloom’s mission is to preserve and share stories from the Japanese American incarceration during World War II through interactive AI technology. By bringing firsthand accounts to life, we provide students and educators with a deepened understanding and empathy for those impacted by civil liberties violations.
Just as an heirloom is passed down through generations, we want to ensure these stories live on forever.
