The Problem with Pan-Asian
Groups
In
response to “Asian Pacific Americans’ Social Movements and Interest Groups” by
Geron et. al
Pan-ethnic groups seem like the
perfect force behind a movement. Just the sheer number of participants makes
the movement seem destined for success. With people of all races banding
together to fight for rights and freedom, it’s like a one for all kind of a
situation.
However, there is a major flaw. Have you ever looked at a map of
Asia? If not, let me tell you, it’s HUGE!!! Asia comprises of about 50
different countries and with a wide range of ethnicities, social backgrounds,
economic statuses, languages…
As a result, each and every person who emigrates from Asia has a
different situation. Perhaps you’re an 18-year old son of Vietnamese merchants
coming as a refugee, or a 6-year old Laotian orphan whose been adopted,
or the 24-year old daughter of a Chinese professor coming to be a student. Each
story creates a unique identity and story.
But a Pan-Asian movement conceals these stories and identities.
These personal identities are destroyed and replaced by a singular group
identity. No longer are they refugees or students. Everyone becomes another
yellow-skinned genius from the East. Their struggles, homelands, languages,
cultures, families and stories are forgotten. They are forgotten.
Is a
giant, all-powerful pan-ethnic movement really worth losing these stories?
Linda Wei
Section A01
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