Center for Asian American Media

This is the dramatic story of Angel Island, the “Ellis Island of the West.” After the Chinese Exclusion Act (1882), potential immigrants suffered detainment and vigorous interrogation for up to two years on this small island within sight of San Francisco. Features scenes recreated in the actual barracks and interviews with former detainees.

“CARVED IN SILENCE is a beautifully crafted film that brings the story of Angel Island, a repressed part the U.S. past, to public view. After seeing it, audiences will want to talk, deal with the ongoing issues, and rededicate efforts for more justice."

- John Kuo Wei Tchen, Director of the Asian/Pacific/American Studies
Program and Institute, New York University

I used CARVED IN SILENCE in my American Studies, Asian American Studies, and Oral History classes as a strong and moving testament to the courage and perseverance of Chinese immigrants who were unfairly detained at Angel Island during the Exclusion period. The combined use of historical information and footage, lively oral histories, poems from the barrack walls, and dramatic re-enactments on site all contribute to a seamless and moving narrative that furthers our understanding of U.S. immigration history and enlightens us about the impact of unjust immigration policies on real lives.

- Judy Yung, Professor Emeritus, UC Santa Cruz

Additional Resources
Children of the Camps Teacher's Guide »
Angel Island Immigration Station Foundation web site »
History and resources for educators
KQED's Pacific Link web site »
"Discovering Angel Island" video and immigration history

College/Institution

K-12/Public Library/Community Group