Changing Times

I am a proud Korean-American and Asian-American, having grown up on the East Coast in the 1980s. As I reflect on my life experiences, I feel optimistic that America is progressing in the right direction. Our country isn’t perfect, and I have seen some ugly moments, but I have also seen more beautiful moments, resulting in my belief that our society as a whole is fundamentally good. Our society changes when enough people desire it. For instance, it is this spirit of change that has resulted in our society today acknowledging the many unique cultural backgrounds that make up Asian-Americans.

I remember vividly that, when I was growing up, teachers and students alike would ask me, “Where are you from?” Before I could answer, they would say, “Are you Chinese?” 

I would shake my head, “No.” 

“Then, are you Japanese?” 

“No.” 

“What are you?” 

When I told them that I’m Korean, they would often ask, “where is that, in China?” 

Most Americans that I came across had limited knowledge of Asians. If a person looked Asian, that person was just labeled “Chinese” or “Japanese.” Today, American society seems to be moving forward: many Americans distinguish the mosaic of Asians in America, from Vietnamese to Chinese to Japanese to Malaysian. Our society appreciates the wealth of cultural contributions, as evident in successful restaurants, fashion, media, and culture. Americans are opening up to different cultures and expressing a genuine interest in getting to know their identities. Now, when I am asked “Where are you from?” and I tell them that I am Korean, most people at least know that Korea is distinct from China and Japan.

Anonymous