Research for this exhibit uncovered information about one extraordinary Oregon family, the Yasuis of Hood River. We planned to display one book about the father, but as research progressed we learned more and more about the difficulties faced by parents and children, and the dignity and courage with which they brought about social change. We also learned that the University of Oregon played a significant part in the lives of this family: four of the Yasui children were students, and they brought change to the University too. The display about the Yasui family eventually overflowed into its own case.

"We are all born for a purpose, and that purpose is to make this world a better place for our having been here." —Masuo Yasui

The story of Masuo Yasui and his family is told by his son Robert Masuo, in The Yasui family of Hood River, Oregon, 1987, and by Lauren Kessler’s book, Stubborn Twig, 1993.