Korean food with brother in Seattle

The first week of Asian American Pop Culture shattered my ignorance about the harsh realities faced by immigrants both past and present.  I didn’t realize my narrow Alaskan view of Asian Americans homogenized dozens of cultures into one; a subtle form of racism I didn’t know I possessed. I enrolled in this class because I want to write about the country I love, yet hardly know.

Now that I have recognized my own ignorance… what am I going to do about it?

Am I going to peel off my skin to donate to Goodwill? Not possible…or effective….

Am I going to shake every Asian Americans hand that I meet and offer to buy them lunch? I’m too shy…and don’t have the money…

Will I still be able to look myself in the mirror? All too often…

Will I look at Asian Americans differently… with a newfound respect and admiration? Most definitely!

I want to learn everything about the various cultures and their histories to be able to identify and differentiate one struggle and triumph from another. Because if I want to be a good American, in my opinion, it isn’t about whether or not I cast a ballot during election time but whether or not I love, respect and embrace my fellow Americans.

I am not guilty for being born with white skin and blue eyes but I am guilty of downplaying the diversity of the citizens who built this country. And I hope that every day forward I can honor and support them in every way possible.