Giving Democracy Meaning: With George Takei [Rebroadcast]

Note: This episode was originally released in January 2022.
Michael speaks with George Takei about his American journey, from living in a U.S concentration camp as a child, to his interest in democracy as a teenager and his activism as an adult. The pair discuss George Takei's graphic memoir, "They Called Us Enemy," the importance of educating young Japanese-Americans about their history, and how science fiction often reflects our humanity and ability to advance as a society.
Check out the book here: www.amazon.com...
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[@suzimpeters]

Live long and prosper❤️Thank you George Takei and Michael Steele. Aloha🌴

[@TheGollyLlama]

It's always a wonderful day when you can experience the richness of George Takei's wisdom and history and true patriotism. My heart aches to hear all the terrible things he has had to endure, but I am grateful he has turned his experiences into valuable lessons for us all. He is a treasure to our human experience here in the US - bittersweet though it may be, and bless him for never giving up on us. We love you, George, and thank you for putting a little extra color on that stand out Star Trek moment on The Naked Time. Ohhhh myyyy! The switch to a foil was an excellent choice.

[@johneblen9172]

America has several systemic problems that need addressed and we'll need some great true patriots from both sides of the isle to resolve them, BUT WE DO NOT NEED TRUMP!

[@carolbulmer8253]

Well said.

[@sarahhearn-vonfoerster7401]

Trump would never acknowledge "systemic problems", especially if he understood what it mean for.

[@imperialmotoring3789]

We need Trump. Who else is going to deport every illegal?

[@thebookelf2135]

​@@imperialmotoring3789i truly hope this sarcasm.

[@imperialmotoring3789]

@@thebookelf2135 No joke kid. USA is being invaded and everyone in Congress needs to be impeached. When we lose our nation you will be saying "why did they let 50 million replacements in?".

[@bootskanchelsis3337]

George Takei has earned my respect.

[@Sweetjudiblueyes]

I loved this interview. We must all understand our history, good and bad. But George is such a joy❤️ I look forward to his comic book (graphic novel).

[@tawanawilliams6296]

And Sulu was everything in Star Trek. I was always amazed that he was even there and I remain a Treky…..I honor you so much Sir. This was a lit interaction. Thanks so much ❤

[@greenbrain8725]

George, you’re such an insightful good man. Bless you.

[@mildredmartinez8843]

Me. Takei is such a lovely man. A national treasure. He is a shining example of the best a citizen of any country can be.

[@JackieWight-lv8ir]

Woohoo. Michael and George, fantastic ❤❤

[@hazellove2144]

Thank you for this presentation. 🤗

[@cindyjamro4045]

What a amazing man what a amazing story what a amazing path of doing so much good and understanding and reaching out to to not only America but the world blessed be to you and others like you it’s the 31st of December thank you for allowing me to go into the new year with a swollen heart of love 🥰🥰🥰🥰😘😘😘

[@robynrains7252]

Very enjoyable conversation thanks gentleman 😊

[@strezztechnoid]

My apologies for missing this earlier, but am so glad to hear this conversation between two conscious human beings. More dialog where shared experiences and the intersectionality of these issues. Thank you both George and Micheal for this conversation...please repeat where possible.

[@dougcummings6000]

Excellent conversation!

[@cindyjamro4045]

Michael keep up the amazing interviews love your interviews ❤

[@browneyedgirl6050]

Thank you for sharing your story. Absolutely terrible what you went through and now there is talk of doing the same again if someone wins. And there is no outrage. 😢 It's terrible were we are.

[@RobinArnold-yb9ld]

My High school US History teacher was in camp. He told us his story. I remember how surprised my classmates were that the United States Government would do that to American citizens. My grandmother had told me about the camps so I wasn't surprised. I graduated in 1983.

[@mljones655]

I've been waiting almost the entire interview & still no mention of Native Americans.

[@lauralafauve5520]

Ikr? I have noticed the Reverend Al Sharpton doing the same thing. I mean, he'll be listing off the mistreated in America, and I'll be waiting for him to say "Native Americans", and he never does. I was equally surprised the Rev seemed totally clueless about how the Israeli government has been treating the Palestinians when he interviewed a woman from Gaza the day after October 7. Like, I know about it, and I'm nobody! I'm just an old lady with a phone! Dang! He's been working for civil rights forever! How can he not know about the people living in the same country as he is, and not know about the people where Jesus lived, being hurt and abused?

[@imperialmotoring3789]

I'm Native American. Note "American". I am voting for Trump and I want every illegal deported.

[@lauralafauve5520]

On the other hand both men are just talking about their own experiences.

[@georgevlachos6982]

George

[@donnawilson-mccowan7626]

😊

[@barbcarrier3702]

So many Japanese families lost everything they owned. They couldn't farm their lands. They had no income for years to pay the taxes on their land or property. This is a huge disgrace for America.

[@maryrobinson6688]

Native American lives were invaded.

[@wilfredtackie3472]

Will DeSantis ban this picture book before it's written?

[@Thomas.Saunders]

As a Senior, George has been a part of my life for over 50 years and this conversation was a delight. Thanks.

[@dcrom]

May beauty and truth return, and may the future be full of George Takei! He's just the voice we need to listen to at this crucial time for democracy. 💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙✌🤟🤞

[@imperialmotoring3789]

I am not much of a Star Wars fan so I really don't care. I just want the border sealed and every illegal deported.

[@sherihunt7453]

Spanish Americans MUST pay attention because if Trump is elected then we will we be fighting this horrific behavior

[@kcuzz4091]

More than just fighting @sherihunt. I truly believe that black, brown, Asian, and our Native Americans will not be treated right by a Republican administration and may even be put into camps or worse. Please Vote blue up and down the ballot in 2024!💙🇺🇸💙🇺🇸💙

[@imperialmotoring3789]

Spanish? You mean Europeans? I hope Trump deports EVERY illegal no matter where they came here illegally from.

[@awg9dog]

I hear ya ' and this attitude isn't directed to Latinos in general , " although somewhat is " but really this entire ' build the wall ' hatred is deeper than the call of let's secure our borders . No , regard this as hatred of Mexicans , not so much Ecuadorians, but Mexicans . Research all you can stand , on trumps Goebbels' advisor Steven Miller on border solutions . The contempt , hate , and attacks on Mexicans , not Hispanics are all there

[@BabbetteChoquette-po5hx]

Wonderful Podcast with George Takei!!

[@MomDeb]

Thank you, Michael, for this great interview. Listening to Mr. Takei describe his experiences should awaken every American to the threats promoted by Trump. If we can’t imagine the possibility of seeing forced round-ups of our neighbors and families … well, better check our own history.

[@imperialmotoring3789]

If they are illegals they MUST be "rounded up" and deported. Who cares what some Star Wars actor says!!!

[@barbcarrier3702]

Agree! Wake up all voters. Vote blue to save our democracy and our rights.

[@imperialmotoring3789]

@@barbcarrier3702 Yes! Vote for who you are told to vote for. That is democracy! It is not your choice it is the choice of our rulers!

[@Kingneo0053]

I'm really like your channel, Micheal. It's informed of topics I haven't heard elsewhere.

[@lisamcbarron6047]

George Takei is a National Treasure and deserves to be recognized as just that, even long AFTER he departs this life!!! Excellent interview!!! Live long and prosper indeed!

[@sarahfuchs4196]

How about a stamp?

[@tamimcfarland1351]

My heart aches when hearing George Takei's story of being taken at gunpoint to horse stalls. This country is an immigrant nation. All of us (except Native Americans) are rooted in immigration. It makes no sense to ban and hate immigrants. I have to fight my feelings of hate toward those policies and politicians espousing them. I am human but strive to love as my faith teaches.

[@imperialmotoring3789]

First off, the Democrats did that to George. Second, all illegals must be deported or else we do not have a nation. Illegals are not immigrants.

[@sherihunt7453]

George Takei you are a national treasure. Thank you for all that you do. ❤️

[@frogdogink4415]

You guys are the Best! Thanks for all your hard work! Please don't give up on us now!! 😎

[@marmalade5941]

It is stunning to witness the love and admiration George shows through his eyes for his wonderful Father.

[@lizzyschenk8878]

Love George Takei! Great episode! Sad how history repeats itself. It shows the power of the manufactured “fear of the other” . Great episode!

[@imperialmotoring3789]

The Democrats locked up his family. The Democrats now are again going full fascist. TRUMP2024!

[@DeeDee-tq4cg]

Thank you, Mr. Steele, for rebroadcasting this!

[@kcuzz4091]

Education is so important in this country. We need the truth about out history taught in our schools. So much of it is beyond being covered up and white washed. Old white person here.

[@imperialmotoring3789]

All I learned from this is that Michael Steele is homosexual!

[@judyrayford656]

KEEP THE GREAT ENERGY UP

[@Fiawordweaver]

I worked in a bank on Oahu in 1973. My supervisor relayed her story of her family losing their home growing up when shipped off to an interment camp. It broke my heart in my early twenties and it breaks my heart as George Takei shares his and his family’s journey. These are stories that are vital to keep showcased to keep us alert and awake to the fragility of our democracy. Thank you so very much for this broadcast. Thank you George Takei for your voice, your bravery and courage.

[@sherihunt7453]

Michael call biden. Speak to dr jill. Please get out on the streets. George find young people to carry your message, please.

[@imperialmotoring3789]

Yes! We need to get Trump re-elected. Every illegal has to be deported!

[@Diana-jx1ju]

Wonderful interview! Very inspiring and just what the doctor ordered to heal the grieving Souls for our country!

[@sallyschoeck]

Thank you so much for this interview with the fabulous George Takei! People need to wake up and realize that stories like his, of his family’s internment, can and will happen again unless we reclaim democracy and ensure equality for all Americans.

[@kathiestickel9247]

I follow George Takei on X and I think he’s great. It’s hard to believe how many people don’t know about the camps. Thank you for telling your story, it needs to be talked about for our children’s future.

[@andreaperry938]

Thank you for this interview. Fight for all our rights. 💙💛

[@davethomas8017]

Thank. You......

[@robertwalsh1724]

They sure won't be allowed to read George's book in Florida.

[@markendicott6874]

National Treasure is appropriate in this case, what an excellent episode.

[@louannkyle602]

I loved this thank you

[@tdearsan]

Yay! Uncle George!

[@DrNancyLivingCoCreatively]

Thank you , George. Such important history. Still unbelievable. Bless you. 💙

[@dizguy89]

Lots of love to George for coming here!!! Ima throw it out there, love Kirk and Picard, but my heart and love will always be with Capitan Janeway!! ❤

[@darinlegore284]

Michael, I know you mean well, but a little less grunting, moaning and finishing Mr Sulu's sentences to try to prove to us you are listening. We'd like to hear guests speak and we know it's a dialogue not a forced dialogue where you have to moan, grunt or say "ight", "OK" or otherwise "mmmn hmnnn" every 7 seconds or so.

[@krissipowell9358]

Please share with family. My mother withheld until she was 73 My uncle a medical doctor imprisoned for providing abortion she said he h ad TB Here we go again

[@kathiestickel9247]

Michael, I’m a white person and am embarrassed by the way people of color and people like the Japanese Americans have been treated. If you’re a bigot you are missing out on getting to know a very interesting person and possibly a good friend.

[@lauralafauve5520]

I was was once stuck in a packed, semi- broken elevator at a sci-fi convention with Mr Takei. (I'm sure he doesn't remember.) The elevatore would stop, open it's door and stay on that floor until someone pushed the "close door" button. Which i knew about, but like i said, the elevator was packed! I couldn't reach the button myself. So, at each floor, I would say to a teenage boy near the door, "Push that button." Floor after floor, the doors would open on an empty hallway and halt. And I'd tell the young man, "Push that button." Which he always did, but never until after i told him to do it. George was in the back of the elevator, talking to a friend, non-stop, as happy as could be. I doubt he noticed anything except maybe the elevator being slow. He has such a joy about him. I think he brings it evertwhere.

[@imperialmotoring3789]

Ewwww. How creepy to be a boy next to that old gay creep.

[@cynthiaslater7445]

I got to meet Mr. Takei in NY at a mini Trekker convention. He was such an engaging speaker with a great voice. He was so nice greeting the attendees, and he signed his book for me. He invited us over to the bar for drinks, but I had to go to work. I should have called in sick! God bless him!

[@jaelo2314]

Mr Takei is not only a beloved human, actor, and author. He is very much relevant and inspiring in our lives today.

[@jbarson6671]

Thank you so much Michael. What a great episode.

[@terrilyndel]

Thank you for this interview Michael, I loved it.

[@IExpectedBSJustNotThisMuchBS]

I see a lot of dark in TV and movies and it’s as if people have accepted an apocalyptic future. We need more inspiring films.

[@imperialmotoring3789]

No we don't. This Star Wars crap is nonsense.

[@awg9dog]

What are talking about, People haven't just accepted a dark apocalypse, We are here Living a dark apocalypse now Look Around , adopt, thrive

[@daren7889]

MARYLAND DEMOCRAT here! MARYLAND PROUD of "Normal Republicans " like Michael Steele! 🇩🇪🇨🇭🌊💙🌊💙🌊💙🌊💙🌊🌊

[@dr.j9201]

Fantastic, wonderful, beautiful, powerful, inspiring and the hope we need for 2024. ❤

[@wendywilliams603]

Thank you both for a delightful conversation. Peace and Love in the New Year. Voting Blue in 2024. 😊

[@maryrobinson6688]

Even before CRT, SOLs and no child left behind plus the establishment of the Federal Dep. of Education has denigrated educating in the wonderful manner your father did, discussion.

[@zinaj9437]

George Takei's memories of internment camps are examples of CRT and why CRT as part of legal studies matters.

[@captainkirk4514]

A fascinating and enlightening conversation with George Takei. As a Star Trek fan myself, I deeply enjoyed it. I'm with you, Micheal on the decision of Capt. Picard or Capt. Kirk. It's Capt. Kirk all the way, baby! Regarding the immigration problem, and the constant criticism of Joe Biden of his inaction to fix the problem. We should be open to criticism of our leaders. The unfortunate truth is that Biden inherited this nightmare from his predecessor, just as Trump inherited the problem his predecessor, as well as the last four presidents who's immigration policies, since Ronald Reagan have been failures. Criticism of the president on these matters puts public pressure and forces change. Should President Biden be criticized for his policies on immigration? Absolutely! I say this as a Biden supporter. President Biden has not acted enough on the immigration problem at the southern border. It's a humanitarian issue. It is his responsibility to work towards a solution. That is what being in charge is about, something Donald Trump simply cannot comprehend.

[@victorzarenin9286]

This story is just so deeply sad and painful. I remember being utterly shocked and disgusted at the treatment of Japanese Americans during WW2. I'm a Jew, so of course growing up I knew all about the camps that the Nazis put us into even when I was a little kid. To me it was simple; Nazis were the bad guys because they put people in camps, and we (Americans) were the good guys because we brought freedom. When I heard that we had our own camps, it just broke my heart. How could we do that to our own people? And then I learned about the 442nd regimental combat team, which was made up of Japanese Americans and won more medals of honor than any other similar sized group in WW2. They were the best of us, and we put them in camps. American history has some real dark spots if you look at the details.

[@barbarajomullen79]

Michael, thank you for your channel. Keep it coming. This country needs the truth presented as you are bringing it.

[@patriciamasterson4721]

Yes, and we need to help native Americans. The American Indians are owed, big time….😢 💙🇺🇸✨🙏

[@lorrainevezeau-kq3jg]

Love George Takei I wish I could hear all of his stories. He’s very interesting ❤

[@mzmscoyote]

Yeah, but. In the 60s we were trying to make the government do right be everyone, not to tear it down or throw it over for a dictatorship. We could not have conceived of American Carnage; we had hope and believed that we could do better.

[@tawanawilliams6296]

I always believed you cannot un love someone you ever loved. That’s not how love works. You can be mad or disappointed or even abused by a loved one, but if you ever loved them, you always will. Hate is inverted love

[@SaddleInTheRain]

This was so entertaining! Thanks for having George on, Michael!

[@DrNancyLivingCoCreatively]

Every MAGA needs to watch this. 😢

[@zinaj9437]

Curious if he cashed his reparations check.

[@wilfredtackie3472]

The shame was for not being trusted by the system

[@sarahfuchs4196]

Bring back Civics courses.

[@crazycatmama2098]

Well that new book will be banned in FL, TX and Arkansas.

[@ginamarquardt8646]

Love George Takei!

[@RosannaMcKinley]

Happy New Year!

[@kaycarter6358]

Oh, My!!

[@imperialmotoring3789]

The fact that Trump bothers that Star Wars actor so much makes me love Trump even more!!!

[@AlvinHackerman]

ISN'T IT REFRESHING WHEN THE DARK PART OF AMERICAN HISTORY IS TOLD WITH TRUTH BUT WITHOUT HATE. IT PROVES THAT AMERICA CAN LIVE UP TO OUR GLORIOUS IDEA OF A MORE PERFECT LAND WE MADE SOME BAD CHOICES BUT LIVED TO CORRECT THEM THAT'S WHAT AMERICA REALLY STANDS FOR.

[@vincelemaire]

I‘m a gay White Man and I stand with Harrison Butcker. ✨🤍✨✝️✨