During the harsh reality that they were living in the camp the Wakatsukis and other families overcame adversity by taking the best out of a bad situation, that is how the interns formed an advisory council of block managers. They also established children's clubs and churches.
They implemented music, dance and more recreational programs, as well as ponds and gardens and also published a Newspaper that they called Manzanar Free Press.
The vast majority worked in the countryside, digging irrigation channels and farms. Others took care of acres of vegetables and fruits, raised cattle, pigs, chickens. They made furniture, camouflage nets, clothing for the military. They worked in the cafeterias, policemen, doctors, firemen, teachers.
They were paid $ 19 per month, unskilled workers were paid $ 12 and qualified workers $ 16. To improve and have more resources many joined to create a cooperative where operated a beauty salon, a general store, hairdresser and bank.
When the war turned in favor of the United States, restrictions were lifted, and Japanese-born Americans were allowed to leave the camp.
