Not Your Model Minority

The nail that sticks out gets hit. A version of this sentiment is prevalent in many Asian cultures. The survival strategy of putting one’s head down, working hard and not complaining was relied upon while Asian Americans traversed the long, difficult path from being demonized as the Yellow Peril in America. Given the number of wars and conflicts that the United States has fought with multiple Asian countries, no one could fault our grandparents and parents for going through extraordinary lengths to avoid making waves.

However, something happened along the way towards assimilation into the White power structure of America. What began as a liberal approach to acceptance was hijacked and weaponized into a political tactic to oppress the progress of other communities of color.

At a time when anti-Asian hate is once again raging in this country, the path forward must involve more than seeking tolerance and law enforcement remedies to acts of violence. Asian Americans must contemplate how we have been used as a tool of white supremacy and the degree to which we enable the same systemic racism that has made our communities a convenient scapegoat throughout the history of America.

Not Your Model Minority lifts up difficult and uncomfortable issues that Asian Americans must reckon with as we seek the promise of America and acknowledge all the work that must be done within our own communities.