To the central idea:
In going back in the posts and looking at the discussion of Asian-American stereotypes, I have to things that will hopefully add, not echo. First, my only interaction with Asian-Americans before TASP was in washington dc. I think it is significant to point out that there are only two Asian-american senators, both from Hawaii. Beyond them, the highest ranking AA is Elaine Chao, secretary of labor. When one considers the documented success of AAs in universities and the marketplace it is clear that some sort of barriers continue to bar them from the political realm. It seems that many AAs are perceived as smart and ambitious, but not as successful, charismatic leaders and as such they have been restricted to doing valuable work for white people, there is a sad correlation here to antebellum house slaves.
From another angle, my small town (3500) has no Asian-Americans whatsoever. There are three kids from nigeria in our school and a handful of Latinos, hence race is not much of a factor in scholastic life. Despite this we have stereotypes. Most notable are the family stereotypes. McCabes are bad news, Segers are hard workers, Loutzenheisers must be musical. These stereotypes have persisted for generations and remain axiomatic and orthodox. In my community you can see a young child and from his features instantly know his family and instantly that person is judged. Additionally, Lutherans seen as more academic and industrious, catholics, less of both, yet often more powerful in my Irish town (O'Neill). Even when people find no other races to sterotype, prejudices persist.
Sincerely,
Matthew

posted by Matthew Schmitz   [8:41 PM]

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