Mary Kitagawa

Keiko Mary Kitagawa was born on Salt Spring Island, BC. Her family was exiled in April of 1942 after their father was taken away by the RCMP in March of 1942. They were incarcerated in Hastings Park, Greenwood, Magrath, Alberta (after father was released from Yellowhead Pass work camp in August of 1942), Popoff, Bay Farm, Slocan (in a tent), Rosebery, New Denver and back to Magrath (1946) after the ultimatum was issued by the Federal government. After 5 years of running a restaurant in Cardston, Alberta (1949-1954) the family moved back to Salt Spring Island (the only JC family to return) to a very virulently racist community. She helped to clear 5 and a half acres of scrubland into a family farm. Mary graduated from Trinity College, University of Toronto in 1959, taught at Kitsilano Secondary school, married, had two children and moved to Tsawwassen 46 years ago. After their children became of school age, she became a substitute teacher in the Delta School District.