Paper should include: 1. Group snapshot: Define the group: how do members of the group define themselves; what isnecessary to be considered a member of the group? Identify strengths the group has and why they are strengths. Identify challenges the group faces and why they are challenges. Identify current socio-demographics of the group, major trends. 2. A history of how the group has been treated in the United States. Include content on legal, political, economic, and educational oppression the group has experienced. 3. A review of the beliefs and stereotypes about the group throughout history and an analysis of how beliefs and stereotypes have been maintained and continue to thrive today. 4. Overview of values and norms.

QUESTION

Paper should include:
1. Group snapshot: Define the group: how do members of the group define themselves; what isnecessary to be considered a member of the group? Identify strengths the group has and why they are strengths. Identify challenges the group faces and why they are challenges. Identify current socio-demographics of the group, major trends.
2. A history of how the group has been treated in the United States. Include content on legal, political, economic, and educational oppression the group has experienced.
3. A review of the beliefs and stereotypes about the group throughout history and an analysis of how beliefs and stereotypes have been maintained and continue to thrive today.
4. Overview of values and norms.
5. Structural, Political forces, policies or laws that keep members of the group oppressed.

ANSWER

Understanding the Dynamics and Oppression Faced by Asian Americans in the United States

Introduction

The Asian American community in the United States represents a diverse and resilient group with a unique identity and shared experiences. This essay aims to provide an in-depth analysis of this group, focusing on their self-definition, strengths, challenges, historical treatment, perpetuation of stereotypes, values, and the structural forces that contribute to their ongoing oppression. By shedding light on these aspects, we can foster a greater understanding of the Asian American community’s struggles and work towards promoting inclusivity and equality for all.

Group Snapshot

The Asian American community encompasses individuals of diverse ethnic backgrounds, including but not limited to Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Filipino, Vietnamese, Indian, and many others. Members of this group define themselves as individuals who have Asian heritage or ancestry, irrespective of their country of birth or immigration status (Iwamoto & Liu, 2010). Inclusion in this group is primarily based on self-identification and shared experiences.

One of the strengths of the Asian American community is its cultural diversity and rich heritage. This diversity fosters a wealth of knowledge, traditions, and perspectives that contribute to the multicultural fabric of American society. Additionally, the strong emphasis on education and family values within the Asian American community has often led to academic and professional success.

However, the community also faces significant challenges. Asian Americans continue to experience stereotypes, discrimination, and systemic barriers that hinder their progress. Language barriers, limited access to resources, and underrepresentation in media and politics further exacerbate these challenges (National Academies Press (US), 2017). Moreover, the diverse socio-demographics of Asian Americans, ranging from recent immigrants to third- and fourth-generation Americans, present unique obstacles in addressing the community’s needs effectively.

History of Treatment in the United States

Throughout history, Asian Americans have faced various forms of oppression and discrimination in the United States. Starting with the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882, which banned Chinese immigrants from entering the country, Asian Americans have endured exclusionary laws and policies. The internment of Japanese Americans during World War II further exemplified the unjust treatment faced by this community.

Asian Americans have also faced economic oppression, with discriminatory practices limiting their access to employment and educational opportunities. The model minority myth, which perpetuates the stereotype of Asian Americans as overachievers and high-achieving individuals, has both positive and negative implications. While it may seem like a compliment, it erases the diversity of experiences within the community and overlooks the persistent challenges faced by many Asian Americans.

Beliefs and Stereotypes

Asian Americans have been subjected to a range of beliefs and stereotypes throughout history. They have often been portrayed as exotic, foreign, and perpetual foreigners, despite many Asian Americans being born and raised in the United States. Stereotypes such as the “dragon lady,” “nerdy Asian,” or the “passive submissive” have been perpetuated in media and popular culture, contributing to a skewed understanding of the community.

The perpetuation of these stereotypes is rooted in various factors, including historical xenophobia, cultural misunderstandings, and the media’s tendency to rely on narrow representations for storytelling (M. Lee et al., 2008). Furthermore, the model minority myth, while seemingly positive, places undue pressure on Asian Americans to conform to specific expectations and obscures the challenges and disparities faced by different groups within the community.

Values and Norms

Asian American values are often influenced by their diverse cultural backgrounds and traditions. These values commonly include strong emphasis on family, respect for elders, hard work, academic achievement, and community support. These values provide a strong foundation for individual and collective success and are integral to the Asian American identity.

Structural Forces and Oppression

Asian Americans face structural forces, political dynamics, and policies that contribute to their ongoing oppression. Discrimination in housing, employment, education, and healthcare persist. Language barriers and cultural stereotypes lead to limited representation and underutilization of the community’s talents. The lack of comprehensive immigration reform and the perpetuation of discriminatory immigration policies further marginalize Asian Americans.

Conclusion

Understanding the dynamics and oppression faced by Asian Americans in the United States requires an examination of their self-definition, historical treatment, perpetuation of stereotypes, values, and structural forces. By recognizing and challenging these oppressive systems, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society where all individuals, regardless of their background, can thrive and contribute to the rich diversity of the United States.

References

Iwamoto, D. K., & Liu, W. (2010). The impact of racial identity, ethnic identity, Asian values, and race-related stress on Asian Americans and Asian international college students’ psychological well-being. Journal of Counseling Psychology, 57(1), 79–91. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0017393 

Lee, M., Juon, H. S., Martinez, G., Hsu, C. E., Robinson, E. S., Bawa, J., & X, G., MA. (2008). Model Minority at Risk: Expressed Needs of Mental Health by Asian American Young Adults. Journal of Community Health, 34(2), 144–152. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10900-008-9137-1 

National Academies Press (US). (2017, January 11). The Root Causes of Health Inequity. Communities in Action – NCBI Bookshelf. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK425845/