To add context and perspective and increase understanding of the issues raised in A Most Unlikely Hero, we offer a number of resources we hope will be helpful. We're continually adding to and updating the list, so please check regularly. And if you know of a website or other resource that would be appropriate to include, please let us know by emailing us at suggestions@unlikelyhero.org.

An Overview
Fairness, justice, equality, tolerance, respect, diversity -- these are the qualities fundamental to understanding what A Most Unlikely Hero is about.

The lessons of the film are rooted in U.S. history, and are even more important today.

Since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, America has been under siege -- but not from outside. Using the rationale of "homeland security," our human rights and civil liberties as Americans are being systematically threatened from within:

· Less than two months after the attacks, Congress passed the Patriot Act, sweeping legislation that removes many of the rights and freedoms we cherish in a democracy.

· American citizens have been imprisoned without being accused of any crime, and denied their right to legal defense, in contravention of 18 U.S.C. § 4001(a): "No citizen shall be imprisoned or otherwise detained by the United States except pursuant to an Act of Congress."

Section 4001(a), known as the Non-Detention Act, was passed in 1971 with the support of Japanese Americans and the Justice Department. The Non-Detention Act repealed a detention statute passed in 1950 that was never used, but which Congress feared could be invoked in an emergency as a result of public panic, and result in a repeat of the injustices of the internment without trial of Japanese Americans during World War II.

· Fear has driven many Americans to new heights of xenophobia, racial discrimination and religious intolerance. Hate crimes are on the rise.

· The religious right, which has unprecedented power and influence in the current administration in Washington, is promoting its views to the exclusion of other religions and belief systems. It also is hammering away at one of the foundations of our American democracy: the separation of church and state.

So under increasing pressure to keep silent, to conform, to follow without question, it's more important than ever for citizens to stand up in defense of the rights guaranteed by the Constitutution.

That duty most clearly defines the meaning of patriotism in today's world, and is above all the lesson of A Most Unlikely Hero.

Viewer Guide for A Most Unlikely Hero
View | Download (3.7 MB PDF file)

Japanese Americans and World War II
Much of what shaped Bruce's experience came from the legacy of previous generations.
Read more about that legacy of sacrifice and service.

Civil Rights Organizations and Issues
Leading civil rights organizations in the U.S. supported Bruce's battle for justice.
Learn more about them here.

Program Script for A Most Unlikely Hero
Download the complete script for the film.