Every time you or another writer shares a story that illuminates the problem and informs the public it gives me hope about the future my daughter will face as she matures. The child has already endured five and six year old classmates tell her "Go back to China" for two years during the presidential campaign. What's more, as a parent I appreciate every insight into her experience. Thank you, with all my heart.
3
I've played a lot of basketball - a little bit in Europe and many days on some tough city courts. If you're unknown to a particular group they tend to size you up and sometimes that comes with labels - complimentary or otherwise. In the early days I've heard my opponent say "I got 'Opie' here, or I'll check Huck Finn". And then after the game when his team is on the sidelines the next opponent up says I'll guard 'Walton' (yes I'm a redhead). So don't hold your breath waiting for cultural appropriateness at a playground court - but you can get respect as a player and that means you're welcome back to play again and help them see the person you really are - that's the best antidote to stereotypes.
Those interviewed in the video expressed pride (understandably) in the notoriety derived from 'Linsanity', but a couple went to negative places that seemed unnecessary. In particular Pablo Torre (ESPN) made a point of the Miami Heat preparing to defend Jeremy Lin so as to "destroy or shame him". I think that was just the competitive nature of a very focused & elite team (NBA Champs) to say they were not going be highlight fodder (like the Lakers) for a kid who just came off the bench on a team that had spent most of the season in the league basement. Michelle Yu was right - people didn't how to respond and some struggled with using the correct references. But Randall Park summed it up best - "it was magic".
Those interviewed in the video expressed pride (understandably) in the notoriety derived from 'Linsanity', but a couple went to negative places that seemed unnecessary. In particular Pablo Torre (ESPN) made a point of the Miami Heat preparing to defend Jeremy Lin so as to "destroy or shame him". I think that was just the competitive nature of a very focused & elite team (NBA Champs) to say they were not going be highlight fodder (like the Lakers) for a kid who just came off the bench on a team that had spent most of the season in the league basement. Michelle Yu was right - people didn't how to respond and some struggled with using the correct references. But Randall Park summed it up best - "it was magic".
1
Strange to think about: on the court over the years, whether it was Wang Zhizhi, Yao Ming, or Jeremy Lin, I always took the talk as a point of pride. To me, it translated to: "Oh, you noticed. You noticed an Asian player is good enough to make waves in the NBA." I actually found myself disappointed when no one ever called me Yi Jianlian.
Yet if I was ever called these names off of the court (and, growing up in white suburbia, it happened more than once or twice), I took it as a racist slight. Hmm. This inconsistency sure gives me something to think about.
Yet if I was ever called these names off of the court (and, growing up in white suburbia, it happened more than once or twice), I took it as a racist slight. Hmm. This inconsistency sure gives me something to think about.
3
Jeremy Lin is offensive? Try being Arab bro. On a good day you get the Iron Sheikh or Ali Hajji Sheikh, but more often its "Ayatollah" or "Osama."
2
Bigotry exists in many forms including malicious bigotry and innocent bigotry. A measure of ignorance is a component of all bigotry. All of us are different in some way from others, and therefore vulnerable to being exposed to bigotry. Sometimes perhaps the best way to deal with bigotry is to have a thick skin and not give the bigot -- malicious or otherwise -- the satisfaction of knowing his/her comments are unwelcome, out of line, or even painful. As many parents taught us, "Sticks and stones . . ." If a response to an insult is called for, one should never forget that a dignified affirmation of the identity being insulted often brings the bigot to a stunned silence.
1
This paper has devoted a lot of attention in recent weeks to relatively minor slights Asians experience. When will equal attention be given to the 4 generations of harassment of Asians in Philly schools, the pogroms from the LA riots in the 90's to Baltimore and Ferguson today, the pattern on "random" mob attacks including throwing Asians in front of trains, the murders and abuse towards Asian store owners? There is a reason these aren't covered. And it is the same reason why there is so much solidarity and sympathetic coverage on the Central Park 5 but none for the victims of Freddy's Fashion Mart, Crown Heights, anti-Asian boycott that happened in the same era and city. There is so much condemnation of xenophobia towards Muslims and illegal HIspanic immigrants yet all the xenophobic violence I mentioned above has been written off history by the racism/xenophobia obsessed left and media.
4
I'm Asian-American and went to summer school at UCLA back in the day, and ended up playing pickup basketball almost every day at the Wooden center to kill time. This was back in 2002 I believe. The first week I started playing I got the typical Yao Ming chants not only because I was Asian, but also because I'm taller than most Asians (but nowhere near Yao Ming's height). It was strange because I was getting called this from both Asians and non-Asian players. After a few weeks of playing at the Wooden center, I started seeing regulars at the gym who still didn't know my name, but started calling me new names like Garnett and McDyess since they thought my game reminded them of the way these retired players played. It was the biggest compliment to me, but beyond that, points to our tendency to side with what's familiar or popular. Being called Jeremy Lin or Jackie Chan is the knee-jerk reaction, but once you spend more time with that person and get to know them, I believe people look past the familiar and comfortable and treat you as who you are.
4
Let's say that you don't play basketball, never played basketball in your life. And people still call you Jeremy Lin or Yao Ming. Would you still feel good about it?
No, I wouldn't. As I said it's a knee-jerk reaction to identify someone with who or what you're familiar with.
2
Interesting, insightful comments by the young people on the video. I am happy that many of the comments were positive. I knew Linsanity, but I have to say that I did not know that Jeremy had such a personal impact in the Asian community.
I am sorry for the crass insults (never me). But on balance the whole Jeremy Lin story is remarkable. Many forget that the NBA has tried several tall imported forwards from China. But never a guard, an American-born Chinese, and a quasi-stereotype from Harvard who came out of nowhere. Also, if Jeremy had had his coming out with Utah and not New York the environment would have been much different.
As far as the Miami Heat players wanting to guard Lin, and "put him back in the pumpkin," I do not feel that was racial. I remember 25 years ago the Detroit Pistons' bad boys wanting to put the clamps on a Continental League player who had gone on a scoring binge.
I am sorry for the crass insults (never me). But on balance the whole Jeremy Lin story is remarkable. Many forget that the NBA has tried several tall imported forwards from China. But never a guard, an American-born Chinese, and a quasi-stereotype from Harvard who came out of nowhere. Also, if Jeremy had had his coming out with Utah and not New York the environment would have been much different.
As far as the Miami Heat players wanting to guard Lin, and "put him back in the pumpkin," I do not feel that was racial. I remember 25 years ago the Detroit Pistons' bad boys wanting to put the clamps on a Continental League player who had gone on a scoring binge.
1
I'm old, so for me it was Bruce Lee. I didn't mind the name. What I minded was people wanting to fight me to see if was any good. Fortunately, I'm good at Muay Thai, so it usually worked out. Decades later, I've given up on things getting better. So I taught my daughter Muay Thai, and I'd like her to learn Krav Maga. By the way, why don't we have a JDL analog, an ADL would be a good thing...
1
I think being called Jeremy Lin or Yao Ming on the basketball court is different from being called Jackie Chan on the street. I'm a "light-skinned" black male who plays basketball and Ive been called Wilt Chamberlain, Tayshaun Prince, Tim Duncan, Kenyon Martin, and probably other names over the years. I have a friend that we call Klay Thompson. I think its natural in team sports, and especially basketball where style is so important, to come up with nicknames for teammates and opponents and the most obvious source for those names are from well known players of that sport. I think what makes the nicknames seem more malicious is the fact that there are so few options for Asian players; its either Yao Ming or Jeremy Lin (nobody remembers Yi Jianlian or Wang Zhizhi).
It doesnt always have to be another basketball player though. I used to play against a guy we'd call 'The Situation' because he looked like a cast member from Jersey Shore.
It doesnt always have to be another basketball player though. I used to play against a guy we'd call 'The Situation' because he looked like a cast member from Jersey Shore.
2
The issue the article is addressing is about the people of the Mongoloid persuasion being called names of basketball players, even if they have never played basketball in their lives.
2
As the only non white and Asian family growing up during the civil rights movement in the suburbs, I definitely heard more than my share of racist comments, taunts and name calling. It sure bothered us then but now the US is a melting pot of diversity- seems like there's something to say about most everyone, even whites. Sure there are still racist people and xenophobia. But it doesn't really bother me now due to as a group, we're more educated and higher earners than whites. We have less social issues such a teenage births, etc. So say what you like! I'm kind of past taking it personally
Great article, by the way.
Years ago, when living in Italy, I overheard an Italian woman (a friend of mine) say that "all you Americans look alike."
I found her comment to be very puzzling since, to me, she didn't look much different from the rest of us. Sure Italians have a distinct look, just like people from everywhere.
But I wasn't offended.
This is not to imply that what was emphasized in this article and video were not offensive. But sometimes people say things that should just remain in their brains, unsaid. Who knows, maybe these folks became more aware of the differences between various "Asian groups" (for lack of better phrasing) after these interactions.
After spending a few weeks in Korea and Singapore a number of years ago, I have become much more aware of traits that seem to be more prevalent in the different Asian regions. Those who have not had a similar experience would not notice.
Years ago, when living in Italy, I overheard an Italian woman (a friend of mine) say that "all you Americans look alike."
I found her comment to be very puzzling since, to me, she didn't look much different from the rest of us. Sure Italians have a distinct look, just like people from everywhere.
But I wasn't offended.
This is not to imply that what was emphasized in this article and video were not offensive. But sometimes people say things that should just remain in their brains, unsaid. Who knows, maybe these folks became more aware of the differences between various "Asian groups" (for lack of better phrasing) after these interactions.
After spending a few weeks in Korea and Singapore a number of years ago, I have become much more aware of traits that seem to be more prevalent in the different Asian regions. Those who have not had a similar experience would not notice.
1
This article masterfully summarizes a persistent problem that haunts many Asian Americans. I've lost count of the number of times I've been told that I bear a striking resemblance to Sandra Oh (who, for your information, is Korean and I am Chinese, thankyouverymuch). When I tell my friends that I resent these comments, I will oftentimes be met with the response, "But you do look more like Sandra Oh than Lucy Liu." This misses the point. That I can only fit into a Sandra Oh mold or Lucy Liu one undermines the individual accomplishments, achievements, and beauty of each Asian American. It also underscores the deeper issue of whether Asian Americans are actually viewed as thinking and feeling individual human beings in this country.
3
Is this just a male thing? It's disgusting and I haven't heard this sort of thing since high school, a long time ago. It's also ignorant...
In response to @Ants comment - As an Asian female, I have also been called Jackie Chan and Jeremy Lin, here in NYC at work and in my neighborhood. Either there is total lack of imagination or representation in the media. Most definitely both.
People who have been subjected to continuous taunting know that it often comes in the form of a joke that is humiliating to the recipient but funny to the onlookers. This is a form of bullying, plain and simple. I am 58 years old and I have had only one onlooker say that we don't make gay jokes here.
1
Asian athletes emergence in sports over the last decade or so has been impressive. It has also added to game.
Ichiro, Nomo, Ming, Lin, Li Na, Matsui, the list continues to grow.
In particular, I admire the composure and temperament of the Asian athletes
Which is in contrast to white, black and latino athletes. I wonder if some of these
athletes stand in front of a mirror practicing some of their goofy moves?
It's all about "me", look at me!
As far as Asians feeling insulted by ignorant, insensitive people, they should
just continue to do their thing with their head high. the problem is not theirs,
the problem lies with the ignorant ones.
Ichiro, Nomo, Ming, Lin, Li Na, Matsui, the list continues to grow.
In particular, I admire the composure and temperament of the Asian athletes
Which is in contrast to white, black and latino athletes. I wonder if some of these
athletes stand in front of a mirror practicing some of their goofy moves?
It's all about "me", look at me!
As far as Asians feeling insulted by ignorant, insensitive people, they should
just continue to do their thing with their head high. the problem is not theirs,
the problem lies with the ignorant ones.
2
Being called "Jeremy Lin", while unpleasant, perhaps, is the minor leagues compared to how non Asians are treated in Asia. Neither is right of course, but Americans tend to be pretty insulated in their views about discrimination. Ask any American who had lived in Asia for a long period of time. In any event, these things are simply part of the human condition , so best to ignore and just get on w it...
2
I tend to disagree. Most Americans in Asian countries are there for business (albeit extended business). America, by design, is a country of immigrants who wish to plant their roots here. To keep perpetuating this notion that Asian Americans are inherently foreign, one dimensional is fundamentally unfair when we're talking not about Asian Americans who are solely here because their companies sent them here, but ones who are here because their families fled here or have been here for decades! They are not foreign is the point, but are made to feel foreign time and time again.
1
People are stupid about things like this.
I became Paul Bunyan in high school and then just Bunyan and I wore it with pride.
Later in life you start to face other prejudices. I diffused them by putting them out there first with pride. Being Irish/German I called myself a Mc/Heine. I also told people I was stubborn on one side and hard headed on the other. At that point what could they say that would bother me.
Doing this made me realize that stereotypes I learned as a child were bad and I fought hard to stay away from them. Every once in a while they crawl back into my head and I just remind myself that I am stubborn and hardheaded.
I became Paul Bunyan in high school and then just Bunyan and I wore it with pride.
Later in life you start to face other prejudices. I diffused them by putting them out there first with pride. Being Irish/German I called myself a Mc/Heine. I also told people I was stubborn on one side and hard headed on the other. At that point what could they say that would bother me.
Doing this made me realize that stereotypes I learned as a child were bad and I fought hard to stay away from them. Every once in a while they crawl back into my head and I just remind myself that I am stubborn and hardheaded.
1
America is full of racists as Donald Trump has shown. Always has been and always will be in your lifetime unless you are lucky enough to live in Hawaii.
A couple of seasons ago, I was at a Lakers practice to interview Jordan Clarkson, who's part Filipino, for Positively Filipino. (Incidentally, JC is very much in touch with his Asian heritage.) I watched Jeremy Lin shoot baskets at a side hoop. He appeared distant from the rest of the team, absolutely no joking with Swaggy P or Robert Sacre. When the practice concluded he left silently for the locker room. Maybe he was having a bad day, but to me he looked like a teammate only in name on the roster. I hope that he isn't alienated with the Nets.
Off point... I suspect that the Jeremy Lin stereotyping pertains mainly to Asian males. I'm an Asian guy. I would be curious to read the Asian woman's perspective on their current place in mainstream or dominant white/black America. I know Asian women who are vehement in their refusal to date Asian men. Sometimes, this preference borders on prejudice rather than a peculiar taste. I also hope that the Jeremy Lin experience can raise up the Asian man's stature in the social scene.
Off point... I suspect that the Jeremy Lin stereotyping pertains mainly to Asian males. I'm an Asian guy. I would be curious to read the Asian woman's perspective on their current place in mainstream or dominant white/black America. I know Asian women who are vehement in their refusal to date Asian men. Sometimes, this preference borders on prejudice rather than a peculiar taste. I also hope that the Jeremy Lin experience can raise up the Asian man's stature in the social scene.
9
Our daughter came to us from Korea when she was 4. She's now 36 and a successful communications executive. Recently her boss, a Caucasian woman. remarked that she had a difficult time reading her "because that's the way you people are." This was not an isolated incident. When she was little and we lived in the Midwest, a neighbor mentioned to my wife that we "could have her eyes fixed." It's out there. Racial prejudice of all stripes. It's imbedded in Trump's followers. We have a long way to go.
3
As an Asian woman, I'd say that Americans are in general familiar with so few Asian woman celebrities that greetings of "Jackie Chan" and "Jeremy Lin" are usually reduced to "nihao" and "konichiwa"...
1
In the universe of forces, perhaps empathy most resembles gravity. It’s everywhere, even in the tiniest of bodies, always attracts and never repels. But racism is more like magnetism: capable of both attraction and repulsion. Magnetism occurs between charged particles and is far more powerful than gravity; a magnet the size of a gumball can easily resist the gravitational pull of our entire planet.
By this analogy, there is no hope.
By this analogy, there is no hope.
4
"Weaker", yes, but all-pervasive and certainly as powerful in importance, wouldn't you say? The gravity from supermassive black holes is now believed to be the catalyst for galaxies; it is what generates stars and planets from cosmic dust in nebulae; it will ultimately win the colossal and ultimately cataclysmic tug-of-war inside our very own sun--and every star--as well as keeping our atmosphere as well as ourselves planted firmly on Earth. One of if not the most important force in the universe. Translated, there is *always* hope! We can not only change, we can effect change. Racism will not prevail...
1
If someone says "Hey it's Jeremy Lin" say "Hey it's Larry Bird" (or Michael Jordan) back. If they are offended just say "Can't you take a joke man?"
9
ITALIAN AMERICANS
of which I am one went through this in spades some time ago. More recently we have been recruited to be part of the "white" tribe and rain insults and superiority on the coloreds and newer immigrants, including the Asians who though not quite new have never really organized to fight back and so probably have not attained the status that their achievements might otherwise merit. Italian Americans, I am very sorry to say, have taken on their new role as prejudice enforcers with a relish. Don't ever go there. Remember who you are, where you come from and the vicious effects racism has had on you and your children. You will be a much better person and stronger community.
of which I am one went through this in spades some time ago. More recently we have been recruited to be part of the "white" tribe and rain insults and superiority on the coloreds and newer immigrants, including the Asians who though not quite new have never really organized to fight back and so probably have not attained the status that their achievements might otherwise merit. Italian Americans, I am very sorry to say, have taken on their new role as prejudice enforcers with a relish. Don't ever go there. Remember who you are, where you come from and the vicious effects racism has had on you and your children. You will be a much better person and stronger community.
14
Ignorant, yes. But I don't believe that this is racism or discrimination. There are many more ignorant people than there are racists.
5
A lot of comments here compare the plight of different minorities and come away with the conclusion that being called "Jeremey Lin" isn't that bad in the grand scheme of what can happen in a racist interaction in America. Stop it. This isn't some sort of suffering olympics. This article can highlight a problem with the stereotyping of Asians without invalidating problems with other types of racism. People commenting that "this is nothing compared to what African Americans deal with" is counterproductive to addressing the underling biases that fuel ALL racism. The powers that be would love if we fought amongst ourselves about whose got it worse. Instead we should acknowledge that these kind of attitudes underpin racism regardless of the minority in question, and fight them at every level.
29
The New York Times has become the stage for any and all insults and wounds people carry in their lives. Really, really tiresome. What has happened to this newspaper?
11
Racism and other society's ills are tiresome, aren't they? I recommend that you move on, then, lest you are roused from the warm blankie of ignorance.
2
What happened? It started representing the diversity of American experience. Does equality feel like oppression to you?
2
I applaud Andrew Keh’s writing in his recent essay for the NYTimes, "I was Never Jackie Chan, and I'm not Jeremy Lin." The end, in particular, is pitch perfect. He captures the essence of our internal struggle, both individually held and experienced in communities: to achieve singularity, we must achieve multitudinous singularities sufficiently large in number to dismantle the associative charge of being Asian.
10
I just wish that people would see each other as individuals and respect their backgrounds, regardless of where we came from (or families came from.) Defending racism, casual or not, damages and disrespects the individual.
5
As an Asian myself, I think what Asians find offensive about these kinds of comments is that, regardless of the intentions behind them, they're just far too personal and aggressive to be coming from a complete stranger. They're also not really welcome from people you know, but at least with them, it's easier to gauge whether the comment is hostile or friendly.
So here's a thought -- why not add a person's race/ethnicity to politics and religion as topics that generally should be avoided in everyday conversations and interactions?
So here's a thought -- why not add a person's race/ethnicity to politics and religion as topics that generally should be avoided in everyday conversations and interactions?
7
The more interesting question, to me, is whether Linsanity itself was racist. Lin had big problems with turnovers and finishing when he went to the basket. In fact, he led the league in turnovers per game and his shooting was substandard. What he did well was to distribute the ball. He made his teammates better. Ordinarily, that doesn't spark insanity. The best at what Lin did well was Steve Nash, who was far superior all around. Clearly, Linsanity was partly related to the fact that Lin's accomplishments were unexpected. Part of it was that he came out of the D league. Part of it was that he came out of Harvard. The biggest part of it was that the Knicks won with him. But part of it was that he was Asian, raising the question of whether his biggest fans were also racist.
2
The racism toward Asian-Americans is dismissed as being mild and benign, even by some Asian-Americans. This is based on a poor understanding of American history. There has been a long history of violence against Asian immigrants on the US West Coast in the late 19th to early 20th centuries: from lynch mobs attacking Los Angeles and San Francisco Chinatowns to police-condoned forced expulsions from the Northern California town of Eureka. This culminated in the Japanese Internment Camps during World War II.
The violent incidents became more isolated, but persisted in the second half of the 20th century. Vincent Chin was murdered in 1982, for example, because a couple of Detroit auto-workers thought Chin was Japanese, during a time when US auto industry was suffering from Japanese competition.
This history informs the present, and this is why the kind of sneering remarks Andrew Keh talks about in this article should not be dismissed as harmless. Consider the way people declared America to be "post-racial" in 2008, then look at the way racism has bubbled to the surface thanks to Trump's candidacy. So long as the racist sentiments are there, it can always bubble to the surface in more toxic forms in the right conditions.
The violent incidents became more isolated, but persisted in the second half of the 20th century. Vincent Chin was murdered in 1982, for example, because a couple of Detroit auto-workers thought Chin was Japanese, during a time when US auto industry was suffering from Japanese competition.
This history informs the present, and this is why the kind of sneering remarks Andrew Keh talks about in this article should not be dismissed as harmless. Consider the way people declared America to be "post-racial" in 2008, then look at the way racism has bubbled to the surface thanks to Trump's candidacy. So long as the racist sentiments are there, it can always bubble to the surface in more toxic forms in the right conditions.
15
Knicks traded him and showed how weak the Knicks are Carmelo Anthony has destroyed the Knicks and he is a ball hog. This article does not relate to how he was mistreated by the ncos due to poor management.
1
I'm 61 now and have lived in this country since 1962. I grew up with kids putting their hands together and bowing at me, "Ah so..". Hated that. I've had people tell me "go back to your own country!" Hated that too. I had a kid tell me he'd shove chopsticks up my butt. Nope, I didn't like that either.
One great summer day, on my bicycle commute home, for which I ride and dress aggressively, i.e. lycra and loud, a teenager yells at me, "Yo Lance!" Hated that.
There's something about testosterone that makes this happen. Maybe it's in the reptilian core of humanity (or perhaps the termite core, because it's a social behavior). I've given up fighting it, I just learn more about humanity from it. Humanity will never grow away from it, but let's hope society does.
One great summer day, on my bicycle commute home, for which I ride and dress aggressively, i.e. lycra and loud, a teenager yells at me, "Yo Lance!" Hated that.
There's something about testosterone that makes this happen. Maybe it's in the reptilian core of humanity (or perhaps the termite core, because it's a social behavior). I've given up fighting it, I just learn more about humanity from it. Humanity will never grow away from it, but let's hope society does.
11
As a woman, I don't get called names like Yao Ming (although at least my last name is Yao, so you'd at least get part of my name right), but it somehow bothers me when people see me and immediately say, "Ni hao!!" They may be trying to be friendly, but it makes me feel like I will always be an outsider. And even if I didn't get called Yao Ming or Jackie Chan, people used to ask me if I knew Jackie Chan or Bruce Lee, as though by being Chinese, I automatically just hang out with them. As a kid, I never watched kung fu movies and I had absolutely no idea what they were talking about.
10
I'm hoping for a big season from Lin: 19ppg 7 assist..45%FG and 38% 3PT
Back in the 80's, I played in a mostly-black playground. Any good play and I was Larry Bird. I didn't mind that at all. I think it matters a lot if you're a minority. I didn't see any need to tell anyone I was Jewish. I suspect if they knew they would have said, "Nice shot, Jaime." That, I would have found offensive. But I'm pretty sure that, either way, the other players are just talking trash and don't think they are being racist.
5
Reading through the comments bolsters the underlying premise of the article. The casual dismissiveness of racism against Asians is so engrained that I don't think people realize that they are doing it.
44
We all seem to be such sensitive hot-house plants these days.
10
Come back when you're the victim of racist taunts.
10
I guess if I wanted to play along - I could classify your reply as one - you are questioning my worthiness as a victim - but that would be silly - right?
6
Who is the "We" you speak of. Definitely doesn't include me...and my guess is that you actually mean "them".
3
"Is your kid going to go back into the black or latino community to treat kids there? Oh, is that crickets I hear?
Not everything in the world is merit based. Get use to it." MM to Jay Chen
Ah-ha, an article about bogans.
Older siblings raised me by busting my chops so when I entered K to today I was ready to control my impulses when I am called every smear of a white, black, Native American, Protestant, Catholic, Jew and now a GD -- as in g-d, d-mn yank.
Heritage of our children is about 50% English, 30% Prussian and rest Dutch, French, Native Canadian going back to the late 1600s in USA. MM, we love creating high paying jobs in disadvantaged ancestry communities. One of the only places where people do not commit major crimes against our companies and ourselves out of frustration for not being able to compete with us legally in business/professions.
Plenty of stories about our children being raised bi-literate in English and Spanish while our oldest also literate in Mandarin since HS. Private clubs swore on a stack of bibles that they were Mexican or Chinese due to their rapid fire conversations. Judges....fogetaboutit.
If bogans make sense ins their putdowns, they make no sense.
Not everything in the world is merit based. Get use to it." MM to Jay Chen
Ah-ha, an article about bogans.
Older siblings raised me by busting my chops so when I entered K to today I was ready to control my impulses when I am called every smear of a white, black, Native American, Protestant, Catholic, Jew and now a GD -- as in g-d, d-mn yank.
Heritage of our children is about 50% English, 30% Prussian and rest Dutch, French, Native Canadian going back to the late 1600s in USA. MM, we love creating high paying jobs in disadvantaged ancestry communities. One of the only places where people do not commit major crimes against our companies and ourselves out of frustration for not being able to compete with us legally in business/professions.
Plenty of stories about our children being raised bi-literate in English and Spanish while our oldest also literate in Mandarin since HS. Private clubs swore on a stack of bibles that they were Mexican or Chinese due to their rapid fire conversations. Judges....fogetaboutit.
If bogans make sense ins their putdowns, they make no sense.
1
I have had 2 Chinese wives (first deceased and second divorced) and have 2 half-Chinese [by ethnicity] children -- a boy 15 and a girl 11. To the extent that the author singles out people who snicker when mentioning his Asian ethnicity, I agree they should be criticized.
However, when people have had very little interactions with Asians and they associate him with Jeremy Lin in a friendly sense, that is just being human and not all knowing. For instance, a Floridian person once mentioned to me that he was surprised by the greenness of much of Ohio -- his only point of reference was Ohio as part of the rust-belt. Also, when I visited Italy one time, I ran into Japanese people in Florence and they asked me if I played basketball -- I don't.
Asians do exactly what the author is criticizing when they run into Caucasians or people different than them. My daughter lived in Wuhan, China for 4 years and the little children she went to school with always wanted to touch her brown hair. Also, many Chinese call Caucasians big noses.
My basic point being is that we have enough real problems in the world without looking to turn small misunderstandings into big slights.
JD
However, when people have had very little interactions with Asians and they associate him with Jeremy Lin in a friendly sense, that is just being human and not all knowing. For instance, a Floridian person once mentioned to me that he was surprised by the greenness of much of Ohio -- his only point of reference was Ohio as part of the rust-belt. Also, when I visited Italy one time, I ran into Japanese people in Florence and they asked me if I played basketball -- I don't.
Asians do exactly what the author is criticizing when they run into Caucasians or people different than them. My daughter lived in Wuhan, China for 4 years and the little children she went to school with always wanted to touch her brown hair. Also, many Chinese call Caucasians big noses.
My basic point being is that we have enough real problems in the world without looking to turn small misunderstandings into big slights.
JD
26
you have a point; to be fair a lot of chinese refer to white and blacks as white devils and black devils in Chinese and usually mean no malice.
2
I would add that the absence of stories like these which humanize and portray Asian Americans in a normal light is one of the main reasons why stereotypes and caricatures of Asian Americans still exist as much as they do. NYTimes, publish more stories featuring Asian Americans! Be part of the solution moving forward! Be part of progress!
18
I've been Lucy Liu or Lisa Ling for years. Once a guy called me Margaret Cho outside the 9:30 Club in DC. I walked up to him and asked him to say it again. He pretended not to hear me.
I have a name.
I have a name.
9
Your name is Sergio Georgini and people think you are an Asian woman? Huh?
11
Thank you for publishing this article and thank you especially for publishing this video. As an Asian American, I deeply appreciate reading and seeing stories that I can relate to on a deeper cultural level, especially hearing authentic Asian American voices describing their own personal opinions and experiences on Asian American issues. It was something I missed growing up. New York City is over 10% Asian American now, and I would like the premier newspaper covering this city to publish stories that correspond with and are proportionate to that base of its population.
21
There's racism and there's ignorance. Some people have no real exposure to seeing or talking to an Asian person...so much so that they don't even know what to say. I completely understand if people are just searching for anything to make that connection, like the food, how beautiful the Beijing Olympics were, or how their buddy served in Vietnam. I don't get offended if people ask me if I'm Chinese or call me "oriental". For those people, I can hear their sincerity and understand they just don't know. I am happy broaden their understanding how diverse being an Asian can be.
For the people who do understand and blurt out "Jackie Chan" or "Jeremy Lin" with a snicker...no. You don't get a pass because you're using your simplistic reduction of me as a punchline. You've already decided that how I physically look is game for your own amusement. For people who consciously mock anyone who is different than them, it makes you wonder why this world can't move forward and why petty problems still exist.
So no, this isn't about Asians needing to learn how to "not be offended". This is about everyone else figuring out if you're racist or just don't know any better. This article was written to educate the folks that don't know any better. For the racist folks, only thing that can help you is a long hard look in the mirror and ask yourself why it's so important to you to mock someone else.
For the people who do understand and blurt out "Jackie Chan" or "Jeremy Lin" with a snicker...no. You don't get a pass because you're using your simplistic reduction of me as a punchline. You've already decided that how I physically look is game for your own amusement. For people who consciously mock anyone who is different than them, it makes you wonder why this world can't move forward and why petty problems still exist.
So no, this isn't about Asians needing to learn how to "not be offended". This is about everyone else figuring out if you're racist or just don't know any better. This article was written to educate the folks that don't know any better. For the racist folks, only thing that can help you is a long hard look in the mirror and ask yourself why it's so important to you to mock someone else.
34
As a Knicks fan who pretty much stopped yelling at the television when Patrick Ewing retired, I absolutely loved Linsanity. It breathed a bit of life into the city for me, and I recall the pride-of-place I felt seeing people of all colors sporting Lin's jersey.
Bit of a bummer to hear of the ignorance that some people showed at the time. But as another commenter correctly points out, there are always going to be jerks among us.
Bit of a bummer to hear of the ignorance that some people showed at the time. But as another commenter correctly points out, there are always going to be jerks among us.
4
I believe that the perception of racism in America is increased by the fact that people are often jerks. I am white, male and on a daily basis people ignore me, condescend to me, are hostile and genuinely unpleasant. If I were a minority, who has experienced racism, I might think that all these people are dissing me bc of my race, when in actually they are jerks to everyone. Is this possible or are minorities able to distinguish racism from general meanness. Of course, relying on a racial slur would be cheating.
12
Racism is everywhere, if u look. ibid gender inequality. U cannot change other people. One day, people will yell at Jeremy Lin because he's Christian. That will be change.
Minorities are usually able to distinguish racism from general meanness. In fact, I would argue many of us are experts at discerning different types of unkindness and condescension. And I would argue that, while being on the receiving end of general meanness and racism are both hurtful, there is a difference between the two that I won't even bother to try and explain here. Personally, I would rather be on the receiving end of general meanness than racism, and I say this as a woman of color who has plenty of experience being on the receiving end of both.
9
This is a useful comment for other white people who think Nick has a point. He doesn't. He's wrong. But his unwitting expression of white privilege is stunning. (Note: I'm a white man.)
13
I'm Asian-American. So pardon my generalization here. But here's what it will take for the Asian-American community's concerns about prejudice to get the attention so many of you are calling for: stop trying to position yourself as close as possible to white people and get involved in the fight against prejudice against your black and brown fellow-Americans. If we stay on the sidelines there, why are we surprised when they don't have our backs in turn, or that our story isn't part of the bigger national dialogue around race?
12
I think you are naïve Patrick. A lot of the anti-Asian violence and racism is coming from black and brown people which is one of the reasons the left turns a blind eye. There has been massive anti-Asian violence by blacks for many decades and the black activists and civil rights leaders are either silent or support the perps. You think by helping them they will ever do anything for you? They may if it's coming from white rightwingers but when it's coming from people of their own race I think you'll find out your kindness will not be repayed. Not even an attempt. That is my lifelong experience with black activists.
19
Well, here's another side to it: The words you sometimes hear out of the mouths of educated (or not) East and South Asian-American immigrants about black people can approach what, if we heard them from a white person, we might characterize as virulent racism. Virulent racism is a feature, not an anomaly, of Japanese, Korean, and Chinese society, and colorism, a colonial legacy, is a strong component of society in the Indian subcontinent. Similar, many Asian-Americans do a poor job of learning the depths of historical injustice directed toward African-Americans which is quite different in magnitude than that directed toward us (the worst acts of violence toward Asian-American communities in our history have always been committed by white people, as I'm sure you know).
"Massive anti-Asian violence by blacks" is a strident statement that cries out for substantiation. I think fighting for justice and against intolerance, for all, is a moral imperative; it's not about what I might get out of it, or what might be re-payed back to me. You throw around "them" and "you" pretty casually. I'd suggest you get past that.
"Massive anti-Asian violence by blacks" is a strident statement that cries out for substantiation. I think fighting for justice and against intolerance, for all, is a moral imperative; it's not about what I might get out of it, or what might be re-payed back to me. You throw around "them" and "you" pretty casually. I'd suggest you get past that.
9
That is is quite a generalization. On what basis do you claim that Asian-Americans are "trying to position yourself as close as possible to white people and get involved in the fight against prejudice against your black and brown fellow-Americans"?
the NBA is a predominantly black league, and it has shown racial insensitivity towards Jeremy Lin because he is Asian.
That is exactly the type of experience that infuriates me- liberals are quick to cry racism, but turn a blind eye to prejudice against Asians (or any other ethnic group they don't support).
That is exactly the type of experience that infuriates me- liberals are quick to cry racism, but turn a blind eye to prejudice against Asians (or any other ethnic group they don't support).
16
Things must be going really well for Hillary Clinton.
Yesterday, there was a really interesting article about a mob hit man.
Two days ago, the encroachment if the Gobi desert in northern china.
Now, this.
I'm guessing a while bunch of people, including I, manifested their discontent and disgust at the blatantly biased reporting, if one could even call it that.
Now, you were saying....
Yesterday, there was a really interesting article about a mob hit man.
Two days ago, the encroachment if the Gobi desert in northern china.
Now, this.
I'm guessing a while bunch of people, including I, manifested their discontent and disgust at the blatantly biased reporting, if one could even call it that.
Now, you were saying....
2
When I was growing up there was a lot of Irish and Italian and a far amount of blacks kids. We were always breaking each other's chops. It was part of being accepted. Sometimes someone went to far but you got over it. Why is everyone so sensitive?
5
Growing up in New Jersey, I was made fun of just because I was Asian. I got teased for having slanted eyes, flat nose, was called names like Chink, Jackie Chan, Bruce Lee, etc. Kids thought I automatically knew karate or kung fu because I was Asian. So if you've been teased a lot, you are sensitive.
8
Because we're adults.
8
Growing up in New Jersey, I was made fun of because I was NOT Asian. (The classes and activities I was in were majority Asian-American and I got the sense that anyone different was looked down on as stupid or if they were demonstrably not stupid, then a notable exception, who was reminded that they were an exception to the point where I felt I must have been a mistake, whatever that meant. I remember being confused to see "smart" "white" people when I first got to college because I was conditioned by my peers to believe they were stupid.)
By mentioning this, I don't want to distract from what AM or Andrew Keh have had to put up with which is certainly abhorrent (so if you feel that I am doing that, feel free to stop reading or to criticize me for making this response about myself) and I'm trying to provide the context which shapes the formation of my views. People around me growing up seldom mentioned race (presumably typical for a "white" person in suburbia except this was still the case when I had no other white people in my circles. If people talked about race, it wasn't around me, unless it was a jab about not being Asian), so I feel like I have a lifetime of catching up to do in things regarding race. It's been confusing to see that my perceived experiences almost seem like the opposite of the real USA.
I don't know how to respond to this piece. My initial reaction is "this sucks and it's unfair" but that seems kind of hollow and doesn't solve any problems.
By mentioning this, I don't want to distract from what AM or Andrew Keh have had to put up with which is certainly abhorrent (so if you feel that I am doing that, feel free to stop reading or to criticize me for making this response about myself) and I'm trying to provide the context which shapes the formation of my views. People around me growing up seldom mentioned race (presumably typical for a "white" person in suburbia except this was still the case when I had no other white people in my circles. If people talked about race, it wasn't around me, unless it was a jab about not being Asian), so I feel like I have a lifetime of catching up to do in things regarding race. It's been confusing to see that my perceived experiences almost seem like the opposite of the real USA.
I don't know how to respond to this piece. My initial reaction is "this sucks and it's unfair" but that seems kind of hollow and doesn't solve any problems.
I'm a white guy whose last name starts with "La" and is easily turned into a variety of funny names, such as LaSlob, LaSlut, LaShole, etc. These are the names my friends selected for me (the ones that can be printed here). I tell an Argentinian friend of mine that he's my favorite Mexican. He calls me Gringo. I've told Asian friends that I'm envious of their tan. In the end, I think intent is so important. If someone modifies my name in fun, then it's funny. If they are attacking me, not so funny. Either way, I speak for myself, not others. We all need to be cognizant of what offends others. That's just common sense. America is a beautiful melting pot. Not just of races living side-by-side, but of races producing mixed-race babies. If anything can cure the hatred in this world, it's mixed-race babies. That may take a while. For now, all we can do is vote against Trump.
16
To this day, my best friend's grandfather in the panhandle of Texas will walk up to any black person he sees in public, point in their face, smile bright, and declare "JESSE JACKSON!" and wait for them to laugh with him.
The human mind is a stupid, stupid place.
The human mind is a stupid, stupid place.
9
I think it might be that Texas is a stupid, stupid place.
5
I am saddened to see that it takes a sports star to highlight the backwards thinking the general public and media hold towards Asian Americans. Underestimation and disrespect abound. Let us hope that this country foster Asian American role models in more achievable careers.
4
I'm glad you shared your experiences. I think it's so easy for people to dismiss the feelings of people of color and tell us to lighten up. I hope the more we speak up about it the better the situation will get. Keep your head up.
7
I am sorry to learn about the racist remarks, ever, but especially about J-Lin. Linsanity was an awesome experience for anyone who was aware of the whole situation.
8
WOW!! There really is a type of universality to the "minority" experience: the sense of excitement at seeing someone like you accomplish something amazing, the larger culture not knowing how to describe it, the weight of being the person who represents all of the others like you - even when you don't, all the expectations from your group as well as the larger culture. Despite all the things that Asians have accomplished you could substitute black, hispanic, or any other minority and some of the statements would be the same. Wow!!
2
As a Korean American I got into A LOT of flights growing up because of reasons like this. I eventually developed a reputation of being a discipline problem. I still don't think I was wrong for sticking up for myself. Those kids I fought never called me chink again. As a grown-up, it's not uncommon to still hear racial slurs, but a potential felony is an effective deterrent to fight again... with my fists at least. I've grown to become a polite, law-abiding citizen but I will NEVER let a racial slur slide, and neither should anyone else. Racism is an invisible disease, and many Americans are inflicted.
43
As a redhead, I can very much relate to this. Red-haired people do not constitute their own "race" and are almost exclusively white, so you can certainly argue there is less oppressive and offensive sentiment behind any anti-redhead rhetoric, but the effect of a lack of media representation works very similarly.
If I'm playing basketball, I'm Brian Scalabrine. Otherwise, I'm Ed Sheehan or Ron Weasley. Not that I look all that much like any of those people. I have gotten over it and rarely get upset (occasionally, I'll sarcastically say "right, we all look the same") but because there is a negative perception of red hair, they do feel a bit like insults. At the very least, they are "othering." So even if I don't openly express frustration when I hear these things, I don't think it's fair to tell people - like the author - that they can't point out the problems with this rhetoric.
If I'm playing basketball, I'm Brian Scalabrine. Otherwise, I'm Ed Sheehan or Ron Weasley. Not that I look all that much like any of those people. I have gotten over it and rarely get upset (occasionally, I'll sarcastically say "right, we all look the same") but because there is a negative perception of red hair, they do feel a bit like insults. At the very least, they are "othering." So even if I don't openly express frustration when I hear these things, I don't think it's fair to tell people - like the author - that they can't point out the problems with this rhetoric.
12
I was married to a Chinese woman for 15 years. When a lot of us Western men who travel a lot are reminded of anything Chinese, the first thing we tend to think is...wow, most beautiful women in the world, incredibly beautiful. That's it for race. The rest is all reconciling cultural differences when they pop up. By the way, you want to talk about racism vis-a-vis Asians, I just retired last year from teaching in the Middle East for many years. When you mention Chinese there, college students and military officers still rearrange their faces to make slanty eyes. Be glad you're not there. I am.
8
"I was married to a Chinese woman for 15 years. When a lot of us Western men who travel a lot are reminded of anything Chinese, the first thing we tend to think is...wow, most beautiful women in the world, incredibly beautiful."
Yeah, nothing creepy there.
Yeah, nothing creepy there.
1
Saying all Asian people look alike is racist. Saying one Asian looks more like another Asian than everyone else around is a dumb, bad joke best avoided. But I'm not sure that's racist, unless the term is broadly defined.
I think this is a poor time for Asian Americans to complain about being called Jackie Chan or Jeremy Lin or the like. I get it. It is offensive and annoying. But in the midst of Black Lives Matter, threatened deportation of Mexican illegals and Islamaphobia, Asian Americans should focus their outrage on injustices faced by these other groups and not throw their hat into the ring of grievances with what are - lets be honest - secondary issues.
2
BLM is an industry that employs false narratives to get a free pass at racism and violence. Considering that some of that racism has been directed towards Asians I think it is a very good time for them to call it out. They should also call out how the left is so protective of Muslims and illegal immigrants from Mexico while turning a blind eye to the anti-Asian violence that they would never accept if it was directed towards blacks, Muslims or Mexican illegal immigrants. They have been sitting at the back of the bus for to long. The lefts favoritism and bias will never end until someone stands up to it. I'm not Asian but I see it very clearly. Treat Asians with the same respect you show illegal immigrants and Muslims, why is that so hard for the left?
5
So casual racism is ok but black racism and Islamaphobia is not ok? The problem here is racism is not ok, ever. What it leads to are real problems, whether they are economic or educational or social. It's like telling women to get over the fact that they are paid less than men because there are tons of people who don't have jobs, period. One does not negate the other, and to try and minimize it is simply insulting.
12
Justice is not a limited resource that needs to be parceled out in a small packets, lest we run out. What is right is right. All those are legitimate issues that all decent Americans should confront, but the idea that Asian people should keep quiet about the racism they face to further those causes is simply incorrect. Racism and prejudice should be confronted in all its forms, not just selectively. That is the only way to get to the root of the problem, and that is the only way you can convincingly make the issue one of principle.
8
It's true that Asians as a whole are still seen as 'other' in the US, even with as many Asians as are currently living here. Many Asians themselves however, also see themselves this way, when viewed through the prism of what it means to be American. I've heard many non-American Asian women in the US referring to their 'American husbands', and in every instance their husband was a white man. To me this clearly demonstrates that many Asian (women) only think of white (or black) men as truly 'American', even if that white American man was born outside the US. An Asian-American man will never be seen as much 'American' as a naturalized white male 'American'.
Obviously most of this twisted mentality is a result of white America and how it has collectively thought of Asians, portrayed them in TV and film, etc., and exoticized the women in particular. Sadly, many Asian women have internalized these messages, which then becomes evident in who they choose for mates. When given the chance, they will often pick a white male over an Asian male, all other things being equal.
Obviously most of this twisted mentality is a result of white America and how it has collectively thought of Asians, portrayed them in TV and film, etc., and exoticized the women in particular. Sadly, many Asian women have internalized these messages, which then becomes evident in who they choose for mates. When given the chance, they will often pick a white male over an Asian male, all other things being equal.
9
This comment sounds incredibly racist, and sexist, to me. The opinions you share here may be backed up by anecdotal evidence from your own social circle, but it seems wildly unfair and inaccurate to extrapolate from that to the feelings of all or even "many" Asian American women.
1
Half of the world's population is not a cohesive group other than the fact that they share a continent (and islands east of the continent). I have as much in common with an Iranian as an Irish has in common with a Bosnian. Americans need less broad strokes and more relief in their discussion of race and concern themselves more with ethnicity and culture (you know, the things that make us who we are) if they are ever going to get beyond racially pigeon holing each other into taxonomies that weren't even sensible in past centuries.
3
Is it a very big deal? Most of the taunting could be ascribed to ignorance and not too much malice.
Tell me why again that racism towards Asians gets a pass?
Racism is racism and words hurt. It's never acceptable.
Racism is racism and words hurt. It's never acceptable.
17
The same reason anti-Jewish racism gets a pass. A huge disproportionate of it has been coming from black leftists for the past 40 years. Blacks are the biggest voting block the left has and they don't want to anger them. Both groups are disproportionately successful which brings out the resentment in white leftists who only like minorities when they are barefoot and pregnant.
10
The sheer number of comments here dismissing the experiences of Asian-Americans makes one thing clear. Unless Asian-American start standing up for themselves and for each other, regardless of cultural or ethnic background, the racism will not stop.
We don't have to be violent or angry about it, but we can't just stay quiet and hope things get better by itself. We have to speak up about it, and be willing to push back.
We don't have to be violent or angry about it, but we can't just stay quiet and hope things get better by itself. We have to speak up about it, and be willing to push back.
39
I am not Asian but I agree. I notice how at any insensitive comment towards blacks, Muslims or illegal immigrants the comment page of this paper will be full of condemnation. Yet when it comes to anti-Asian or anti-Jewish racism the comment page will be full of people making excuses for it or negating the hurt it causes. Often it will be the same people making such a stink when it's directed towards blacks or Muslims. Shame on them.
10
It's not an entirely American issue.
Visiting Fez, Morocco, with three Theravada Buddhist monks, we were constantly greeted by cries of "Buddha! Buddha!" interspersed with cries of "Jackie Chan! Jackie Chan!"
One of the three monks was Japanese. (The other two were Caucasian.)
At one point, a Moroccan -- who looked to be in his mid-twenties -- came up to us and said to our Japanese monk, in perfectly good English, "Can you teach me kung-fu? I want to kill my friend."
This was greeted with bewilderment by our Japanese monk, instantly followed by unconcealed, uncontrollable laughter from the rest of us.
Visiting Fez, Morocco, with three Theravada Buddhist monks, we were constantly greeted by cries of "Buddha! Buddha!" interspersed with cries of "Jackie Chan! Jackie Chan!"
One of the three monks was Japanese. (The other two were Caucasian.)
At one point, a Moroccan -- who looked to be in his mid-twenties -- came up to us and said to our Japanese monk, in perfectly good English, "Can you teach me kung-fu? I want to kill my friend."
This was greeted with bewilderment by our Japanese monk, instantly followed by unconcealed, uncontrollable laughter from the rest of us.
8
As a child, my mother would often say "I wouldn't give so-in-so a Chinaman's chance". My sister and I at a very young age, had to pull her coat to how racist that remark was. Our society is pathetic in so many ways, but most glaringly because we exude racism in so many forms. It's beyond time that writers of Asian descent speak out about the slights and ugliness they and others encounter. These articles, hopefully, will educate those who need the most help in understanding the hurt they inflict with careless, thoughtless words about someone's ethnicity.
8
Brown skin, mixed-race person here. When I ditched my contract lenses and showed up at work with glasses (round with gold frames), I heard within five minutes that I looked like Wynton Marsalis and Gandhi. .... because they look so much alike, apparently.
6
To anyone who thinks this is no big deal, think about it: Is it ok in this day and age to say that all black people look alike?
12
A couple of morons wrote some bad headlines and this was what 3 years ago? Why am Im supposed to be upset about this? Im sorry but I have bigger things to worry about then fighting some silly battle against idiots.
Ill continue to fight racism in daily life, if someone makes a racist comment I wont fan the flames and Ill call them out if necessary. The most racism I see is in the older generations, much less in millennials and youth. Its getting better, people need to relax.
Ill continue to fight racism in daily life, if someone makes a racist comment I wont fan the flames and Ill call them out if necessary. The most racism I see is in the older generations, much less in millennials and youth. Its getting better, people need to relax.
I know it is not ok to say that all Chinese look alike. That is a racial slur and, objectively, I know that they do not all look alike. . . However, to me, in actuality, they do look a lot more alike than people of my own race. I remember reading that it may have something to do with the way our brains try to conserve resources by only making fine destinations when it is necessary. For example distinguishing individuals in a group we spend a lot of time with. For Asians who grew up in Asia is it hard to distinguish between nordic individuals? Anyway, white Americans are prejudiced, but I think we can be cut a break when we mistakenly think you look like someone else. People are alway confusing me with Brad Pitt.
1
Even in the liberal haven of Berkeley I get this from people who would be mortified to be called racially insensitive. People call me Ming Tsai...
8
In hipster/artist haven of Brooklyn I used get called a Red Army solider whenever I'd wear red around my face. I am Korean American.
I think it's normal and okay for someone (a white man) to make these visual connections in their mind, but why is it okay to say it to my face? Is it because I am an Asian woman?
What happens after such a statement is that I am left feeling like that person isn't interested in who I really am. I feel objectified.
It is racism.
I think it's normal and okay for someone (a white man) to make these visual connections in their mind, but why is it okay to say it to my face? Is it because I am an Asian woman?
What happens after such a statement is that I am left feeling like that person isn't interested in who I really am. I feel objectified.
It is racism.
1
Most people have to deal with so many harsh things in their lives.
This seems like just another racial 'wedge issue' du jour from the NYT.
Life is not fair.
All people are not equal.
There will always be people who say stupid things.
Acknowledging them is validation. Move on.
This seems like just another racial 'wedge issue' du jour from the NYT.
Life is not fair.
All people are not equal.
There will always be people who say stupid things.
Acknowledging them is validation. Move on.
4
I never was Larry Bird! Living in Hawaii for 10 years. I was a "Haole", sometimes in a good way, sometimes not. I was Chuck Norris, Robert Redford, Albino, White Boy, Hollywood, etc. I was a minority and my wife was the majority.
In Mexico I was a stupid Gringo. I find these experiences humbling and certainly a positive learning experience. Depending on where you go and where people come from, you are going to find different view points but isn't that interesting? I never seemed to be bothered by names or people joking around, maybe serious, maybe not? I just let it go, I don't have the problem, they do!
In Mexico I was a stupid Gringo. I find these experiences humbling and certainly a positive learning experience. Depending on where you go and where people come from, you are going to find different view points but isn't that interesting? I never seemed to be bothered by names or people joking around, maybe serious, maybe not? I just let it go, I don't have the problem, they do!
3
When we talk about racism, what actually do we mean? When people are trying to make a connection, is it more important to respond with how we feel, or respond to what they are trying to say?
Yes, I was known as Jackie Chan and Bruce Lee growing up. Then I was Long Duk Dong, so yeah, I know how it feels. But how were such calls intended? Racism is an intent to disparage on the basis of race. If the intent is not to disparage but to show difference, is that the same level of iniquity? If a tall person walks down the hall, and someone says, "Yao Ming looking mofo" then is that okay but not really okay because height-ism is also an issue?
I am not suggesting that racism does not exist with respect to ignorant calls that hurt more than intended, hurt more than realized, hurt more than can be explained in an essay, hurt more than can be described at all. But I am suggesting that when many people say, Jeremy Lin, they aren't saying "Chicken Lo Mein" or "Long Duk Dong," they are making a connection with you - "Yeah, you are different, but I know someone like you, and I get him, so I get you." Of course, that statement contains multiple fallacies including a very large logical fallacy, but shouldn't we be reaching out to grasp the connection, however ill-conceived and hurtful?
We live in a confusing, imperfect world. And we are all human. Perhaps we might all be better served if we took the "Jeremy Lin" calls and used them to turn the call into communication.
Yes, I was known as Jackie Chan and Bruce Lee growing up. Then I was Long Duk Dong, so yeah, I know how it feels. But how were such calls intended? Racism is an intent to disparage on the basis of race. If the intent is not to disparage but to show difference, is that the same level of iniquity? If a tall person walks down the hall, and someone says, "Yao Ming looking mofo" then is that okay but not really okay because height-ism is also an issue?
I am not suggesting that racism does not exist with respect to ignorant calls that hurt more than intended, hurt more than realized, hurt more than can be explained in an essay, hurt more than can be described at all. But I am suggesting that when many people say, Jeremy Lin, they aren't saying "Chicken Lo Mein" or "Long Duk Dong," they are making a connection with you - "Yeah, you are different, but I know someone like you, and I get him, so I get you." Of course, that statement contains multiple fallacies including a very large logical fallacy, but shouldn't we be reaching out to grasp the connection, however ill-conceived and hurtful?
We live in a confusing, imperfect world. And we are all human. Perhaps we might all be better served if we took the "Jeremy Lin" calls and used them to turn the call into communication.
9
Reading these articles have been very interesting. It seems that Asian Americans, especially young Asian Americans, are tired of the 'model minority' label. Being considered 'safe' might mean that Asians don't always get treated with the same hostility from the majority population that other visible minorities do, but it also means that they don't get much respect either.
I'm curious to see how this is going to play out. As Asian Americans speak out more and more, will the majority population pull the 'favourite' card? What if Jeremy Lin fathers a child with a woman he's not married to? Or gets arrested for fighting in a club? It's going to be interesting.
I'm curious to see how this is going to play out. As Asian Americans speak out more and more, will the majority population pull the 'favourite' card? What if Jeremy Lin fathers a child with a woman he's not married to? Or gets arrested for fighting in a club? It's going to be interesting.
2
I don't understand this comment.
What does JLin fathering a child or not fathering a child, or getting arrested, or not getting arrested, have to do with me, an Asian American?
The whole point of the essay is that Asian Americans are NOT jeremy lin and should not be thought of as jeremy lin (or Yao Ming, or Bruce Lee, for that matter).
Apparently, there are people who believe that Asian Americans are "lucky" to be branded as "model" and that such branding helps Asian Americans not be discriminated against in the same manner that Black Americans for instance, or discriminated against. I guess the point of the reply is that what will such "lucky" Asian Americans feel or think once the "model" branding is removed.
The whole thought process is just wrong.
Nobody, NOBODY, likes being cattle-branded. It is demeaning, it is racist, and it is so very wrong to each and every individual.
I want to be judged for me and my actions, and not judged on the basis of some dude who doesn't look like me, doesn't talk like me, doesn't think like me, and doesn't act like me. If I father a child out of wedlock, if I get arrested for fighting in a club, then please PLEASE judge me for that, and not if some NBA point guard does it.
The whole concept is not to pre-judge. To pre-judge, is to be prejudicial, and that is what Asian Americans are speaking out against.
What does JLin fathering a child or not fathering a child, or getting arrested, or not getting arrested, have to do with me, an Asian American?
The whole point of the essay is that Asian Americans are NOT jeremy lin and should not be thought of as jeremy lin (or Yao Ming, or Bruce Lee, for that matter).
Apparently, there are people who believe that Asian Americans are "lucky" to be branded as "model" and that such branding helps Asian Americans not be discriminated against in the same manner that Black Americans for instance, or discriminated against. I guess the point of the reply is that what will such "lucky" Asian Americans feel or think once the "model" branding is removed.
The whole thought process is just wrong.
Nobody, NOBODY, likes being cattle-branded. It is demeaning, it is racist, and it is so very wrong to each and every individual.
I want to be judged for me and my actions, and not judged on the basis of some dude who doesn't look like me, doesn't talk like me, doesn't think like me, and doesn't act like me. If I father a child out of wedlock, if I get arrested for fighting in a club, then please PLEASE judge me for that, and not if some NBA point guard does it.
The whole concept is not to pre-judge. To pre-judge, is to be prejudicial, and that is what Asian Americans are speaking out against.
12
Hey Andrew.
Relax.
The world is full of insensitive morons.
And if that's all they are, it's their problem much more than yours.
Do you really want to let them get your goat?
Do you really want to spend your days resenting them and their stupidity?
The best revenge is living well.
Live well.
Relax.
The world is full of insensitive morons.
And if that's all they are, it's their problem much more than yours.
Do you really want to let them get your goat?
Do you really want to spend your days resenting them and their stupidity?
The best revenge is living well.
Live well.
13
Hey Melvin:
This is not about sensitivity. This is about flipping the script - about changing the language, the attitude and the thinking of people.
Asian Americans are being hurt in every single sense of the word - emotionally, physically, financially, culturally, romantically, academically, athletically, even spiritually, as racism hits every single element of our lives. The reason nobody else seems to care is for the very reason that you seem to suggest - live well and that's revenge enough. No, one thing has nothing to do with the other.
BLM supporters often shout to the heavens with "I CANT BREATHE" and they mean it not just when a cop chokes them out, but because even the very air is choked with poisonous fumes of racism. The understanding that they cannot even walk their own street without fear and prejudice is something that is structural, perhaps above all, and so BLM wants to tear down the structure that is literally choking Black America out.
Asian America must support BLM, not just because we are human, but because the principle, and therefore the fight, is the same. We are all trying to live as humans, and merely having some of us living well as dogs is not enough.
This is not about sensitivity. This is about flipping the script - about changing the language, the attitude and the thinking of people.
Asian Americans are being hurt in every single sense of the word - emotionally, physically, financially, culturally, romantically, academically, athletically, even spiritually, as racism hits every single element of our lives. The reason nobody else seems to care is for the very reason that you seem to suggest - live well and that's revenge enough. No, one thing has nothing to do with the other.
BLM supporters often shout to the heavens with "I CANT BREATHE" and they mean it not just when a cop chokes them out, but because even the very air is choked with poisonous fumes of racism. The understanding that they cannot even walk their own street without fear and prejudice is something that is structural, perhaps above all, and so BLM wants to tear down the structure that is literally choking Black America out.
Asian America must support BLM, not just because we are human, but because the principle, and therefore the fight, is the same. We are all trying to live as humans, and merely having some of us living well as dogs is not enough.
4
Generalization is not necessarily racism. People generalize based on a whole plethora of physical attributes. Try having red hair or large breasts! or both!!! People try to categorize based on physical appearance, but you might be missing out on meeting a lot of good people if you generalize them based on a few poorly chosen words. Not that I would ever want to get to know someone that used "chicken lo mein" to address me. It is a fine line that we ourselves have to draw between what we find offensive and what we don't. What I would advise it that we try to draw that line on the side on tolerance of stupidity as much as we can, because most people are not trying to be offensive.
6
Why was Donald Sterling banned from the NBA for life for comments he made in a private illegally taped phone call which were wrongly perceiving to be telling his girlfriend not to be seen with black people while anti-Asian, anti-Jewish, homophobic and misogynistic rhetoric from players leads to zero consequences? There has been harassment from fellow teammates towards Asian athletes that has never led to consequences or the ruin of ones reputation. Similar slights towards blacks would never be tolerated.
12
As one of our great scribes, H.L. Mencken, once suggested, "No one in this world, so far as I know—and I have searched the records for years, and employed agents to help me—has ever lost money by underestimating the intelligence of the great masses of the people. Nor has anyone ever lost public office thereby."
I would paraphrase this as follows: "We will probably never run out of idiots."
I would paraphrase this as follows: "We will probably never run out of idiots."
5
The writer is simply expressing decades of frustration at being both the "model minority" and also being a marginalized minority in this country. By being equated with the only known Asian celebrity, people are in fact trivializing the entire race. It is insulting to ones intelligence that the only thing someone thinks about when they see an Asian person is Jeremy Lin (or Jackie Chan). The Asians as an ethnic group collectively is much more diverse and accomplished than an individual celebrity. I think that is the point of the article. It is unfortunate that some readers view this as whining and continue to provide the absurd advice to "suck it up."
17
To those commenters who've said stuff like "Wow, it must hurt so much to be compared to somebody successful!" allow me to illustrate through simple graphic representation your mistake:
The point of this article
- - - - - - - - - -
Your head
It is dehumanizing to think that every Asian who can play basketball is a Jeremy Lin, or every pretty Asian woman is a Lucy Liu. You're not being looked at like a person, but a collection of stereotypes, you're being forced into the "I have an Asian friend" slot whether you like it or not. Just for being Asian in America, people have thought it was okay to (1) remind me I bombed Pearl Harbor (not Japanese-American, but okay) or (2) pretend the only other Asian-American girl in my school and I were the same person... the list goes on.
That's the point: this sort of thing happens constantly and makes us feel like we're not being treated as real, individual human beings. Just "another" Jeremy Lin or Eddy Huang.
The point of this article
- - - - - - - - - -
Your head
It is dehumanizing to think that every Asian who can play basketball is a Jeremy Lin, or every pretty Asian woman is a Lucy Liu. You're not being looked at like a person, but a collection of stereotypes, you're being forced into the "I have an Asian friend" slot whether you like it or not. Just for being Asian in America, people have thought it was okay to (1) remind me I bombed Pearl Harbor (not Japanese-American, but okay) or (2) pretend the only other Asian-American girl in my school and I were the same person... the list goes on.
That's the point: this sort of thing happens constantly and makes us feel like we're not being treated as real, individual human beings. Just "another" Jeremy Lin or Eddy Huang.
29
Lest anyone think that the racism discussed is only casual, I still cannot erase the things said in the bleachers about Matsui. No one dared use slurs for the Hispanic, black or white players. But whatever Matsui did was sure to be met with plenty of commentary based solely on his race. I am not of Asian descent but that was the first time I really heard such slurs used about Asians.
15
There is no excuse for the lack of kindness - EVER!
1
When I came here in 1957, as a 10 year old English kid, I got every stereotypical comment possible. Every day. " Pip, pip, cheerio", a phrase never heard in England, was constantly thrown at me. Teachers, kids and random strangers were always asking me to say something in "English". When the Beatles showed up, things changed and I became the representative of cool, especially since I could do an authentic Liverpool accent (being from South London). My point is, people generalize and hold on to every bit of interesting exotic "otherness" that they find interesting. These days, with a strong emphasis on identity, it's even more prevalent. My advice to the writer, is look at where it's coming from. Is it racist or careless? Is it friendly or hateful?
10
And Bob's your uncle.
1
I don't really care what racists think or call me.
What really bothers me is that all other things being equal, my son (as an Asian) needs to score 40%+ higher on the MCAT than say a Latino or an African American to get into medical school.
That's the racism that affects me. We should all want the most qualified doctors. People of every color should have an equal chance to get into college. It's time to kill (or severely weaken) affirmative action.
What really bothers me is that all other things being equal, my son (as an Asian) needs to score 40%+ higher on the MCAT than say a Latino or an African American to get into medical school.
That's the racism that affects me. We should all want the most qualified doctors. People of every color should have an equal chance to get into college. It's time to kill (or severely weaken) affirmative action.
23
Is your kid going to go back into the black or latino community to treat kids there? Oh, is that crickets I hear?
Not everything in the world is merit based. Get use to it.
Not everything in the world is merit based. Get use to it.
1
Uh .. you mean, "reverse racism," I think.
Another view: at some colleges, Chinese from China are 10% of the student population. They're financially propping up USA higher ed.
Well, the status quo just ain't working, so the Chinese are doing charity work, to some.
Another view: at some colleges, Chinese from China are 10% of the student population. They're financially propping up USA higher ed.
Well, the status quo just ain't working, so the Chinese are doing charity work, to some.
1
@ MM
If not everything in the world is merit based, then what is it?
Whoever can endlessly whine the most about their perceived grievances until they reach the top of the Victim's Pyramid, so that we now have Hollywood stars worth hundreds of millions of dollars insisting they are disadvantaged?
If not everything in the world is merit based, then what is it?
Whoever can endlessly whine the most about their perceived grievances until they reach the top of the Victim's Pyramid, so that we now have Hollywood stars worth hundreds of millions of dollars insisting they are disadvantaged?
1
Thank you for talking about the weirdness of how people look at those they consider the "other." Sports is a microcosm of our world, so this is important information for all of us. One thing not mentioned -- the tendency for white or black people to refer to all Asian people as Chinese.
6
How about the tendency to call all white people, "White People"?
17
And when I played pick up games on the Philadelphia playground in the 1980's, I was "Bobby Jones".
3
In the article, video, and letters no one mentions that Jeremy Lin went to Harvard, the thing I find most impressive about him (though on an otherwise dismal Knicks team Linsanity was very cool). But maybe that's about a different cultural stereotype.
Anyone think students at Stuyvesant are walking the halls calling Asian-American National Merit Scholarship winners "Jeremy Lin"? I think one reason for this is that sports are based on children's games and possibly evoke for fans a child's view of the world, simplistic and often ignorant.
Anyone think students at Stuyvesant are walking the halls calling Asian-American National Merit Scholarship winners "Jeremy Lin"? I think one reason for this is that sports are based on children's games and possibly evoke for fans a child's view of the world, simplistic and often ignorant.
5
Picking on Asian people is pretty much the last bit of socially acceptable racism in this country. Whether it's Chris Rock or Fox News' Bill O'Reilly, picking on Asian people is still something public personalities can get away with. Sure, there's some push back and criticism, but there are usually no practical negative consequences. Sure, there is some push back and maybe there is a half-hearted "sorry IF you are offended," but nobody is losing their jobs. If people went after African or Latino Americans the same way they went after Asian-Americans, they would (quite rightly) be facing a much tougher backlash.
Asian-Americans come from an extremely wide variety of cultural and ethnic backgrounds, and so traditionally have not been a cohesive group in American society. We are also present in small numbers compared to other racial minorities in the United States. Both of these factors make Asian-Americans more vulnerable.
But we have a lot of shared experiences and challenges, and since we are already present in small numbers dividing up further amongst ourselves won't help any of us. We, and our children, will continue be subject to this kind of racism until we start standing for ourselves and standing up for each other.
Asian-Americans come from an extremely wide variety of cultural and ethnic backgrounds, and so traditionally have not been a cohesive group in American society. We are also present in small numbers compared to other racial minorities in the United States. Both of these factors make Asian-Americans more vulnerable.
But we have a lot of shared experiences and challenges, and since we are already present in small numbers dividing up further amongst ourselves won't help any of us. We, and our children, will continue be subject to this kind of racism until we start standing for ourselves and standing up for each other.
25
Anti-Jewish rhetoric is similarly accepted by the left. Some of the reasons are the same as why they tolerate anti-Asian racism: leftist resentment of the success of both minorities and the fact that a lot of bigotry towards both groups over the past 50 years has been from black nationalists which the left gives a never ending free pass to. The fact is the anti-Asian and anti-Jewish rhetoric and violence the left will tolerate is as bad as the very far right. It is shameful. The left is so concerned about microagressions towards blacks, Muslims and illegal immigrants while turning a blind eye to open hostility and hatred towards their least favored minorities (Asians and Jews) unless it's coming from the right. And sadly enough much of it is coming from the left.
6
Italian-American stereotypes too. The Sopranos anyone?
2
@Hayden C.
It appears have some kind of axe to grind and want to drag the discussion onto something else. I have no desire to debate you, but suffice to say I do not appreciate you attaching your rather dubious argument to my comment.
Consider the way Jewish-American voters are supporting the Democrats over Republicans 3-to-1 this year, and that ADL found antisemitic hate groups all lining up behind Donald Trump, you might find many Jewish-Americans disagree with your questionable worldview.
It appears have some kind of axe to grind and want to drag the discussion onto something else. I have no desire to debate you, but suffice to say I do not appreciate you attaching your rather dubious argument to my comment.
Consider the way Jewish-American voters are supporting the Democrats over Republicans 3-to-1 this year, and that ADL found antisemitic hate groups all lining up behind Donald Trump, you might find many Jewish-Americans disagree with your questionable worldview.
1
I played a lot of pickup basketball. New guy shows up on our court.
He repeatedly passes the ball to a teammate who, shall we say, lacks certain skills (ballhandling, shooting, court vision, minor stuff like that. And short.)
Finally another teammate goes over to the new guy and asks, "Why do you keep passing him the ball?"
He says, "Because you call him The Doctor." (As in "Doctor J," the great Julius Erving, for those who do not remember)
Teammate says, "That's because he IS a doctor."
True story.
He repeatedly passes the ball to a teammate who, shall we say, lacks certain skills (ballhandling, shooting, court vision, minor stuff like that. And short.)
Finally another teammate goes over to the new guy and asks, "Why do you keep passing him the ball?"
He says, "Because you call him The Doctor." (As in "Doctor J," the great Julius Erving, for those who do not remember)
Teammate says, "That's because he IS a doctor."
True story.
22
Did you know that Asian Americans in Philadelphia just held the largest ever "Asians Against Violence" protest (goo.gl/sLCAEk)? They were protesting the fact that they have been disproportionately the victims of violent crimes based on their appearance and cultural success.
It's amazing to me that an article documenting how Asians feel about a basketball player and his surrounding legacy can make it to the front of the NYT times website, while Asians being targeted for violent crimes is entirely ignored. Is it because the people committing the crimes largely aren't white? Is it because articles about "feelings" get more clicks than articles about crime? Is it because we enjoy stoking feelings of indignation more than solving problems? What's going on?
It's amazing to me that an article documenting how Asians feel about a basketball player and his surrounding legacy can make it to the front of the NYT times website, while Asians being targeted for violent crimes is entirely ignored. Is it because the people committing the crimes largely aren't white? Is it because articles about "feelings" get more clicks than articles about crime? Is it because we enjoy stoking feelings of indignation more than solving problems? What's going on?
31
Hey William,
Thanks for writing. Perhaps you missed this essay by Michael Luo, another Times journalist.
JJL
Thanks for writing. Perhaps you missed this essay by Michael Luo, another Times journalist.
JJL
11
I appreciate your reply. That was a thought-provoking essay.
1
Where I live, there are thieves/thugs who "commute" to Asian neighborhoods to do their deeds as Asians are known for not fighting back and carrying more cash than other ethnicities.
Great piece. Recently, i was looking for my seat at a baseball game and some stranger said, "Hey, there's a Japanese pitcher up tonight," and i said, "Yeah, so what?" Was it racism, exoticism, or someone trying to make a connection? It felt like racism.
7
Love all the good-intentioned-but-still-patronizing white dudes trying to commiserate with what they think is 'racism' directed at them for being called Larry Bird, etc. Anyone who really thinks that is on par with all Asians being called Jeremy Lin (or Jackie chan) is lacking in understanding the cultural context from which this scenario takes place and which any conversation about it demands. The sad fact is this is just another instance of racially-mediated power dynamics taking shape; they're using one of the few, 'masculine' role models Asian Americans have as a way to disparage and undermine other Asians Americans. Whether or not the name droppers are conscious of these intention remains another matter.
16
I don't think they are good-intentioned.
3
If we are unsure of another's name we might use Sir or Ms. That's just common manners. It offers respect and towards to another. It's simple easy for all ages.
2
Yeah, on a basketball court, "Sir"? Sometimes using "Jeremy Lin" is probably a lame joke and sometimes it could be a mark of respect, as in, hey guys watch out for that Asian dude, he has game. Short for that? "Jeremy Lin".
What about the comments from Asians about the "easy calculus" for the "white kids"? Yep, overheard more than once. Racist? Between Asians and Europeans in the U.S., cast the first stone if you're sure you have no stereotypes in your head.
What about the comments from Asians about the "easy calculus" for the "white kids"? Yep, overheard more than once. Racist? Between Asians and Europeans in the U.S., cast the first stone if you're sure you have no stereotypes in your head.
1
The influx of middle class immigrants and skilled workers on H1-B visas from Asian countries has skewed poverty statistics, according to a report by the National Coalition for Asian Pacific American Community Development. In 2012 alone, there were over 110,000 H1-B visas issued to people coming from Asia. These relatively high-income immigrants have increased the pool of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs) and caused the AAPI poverty rate to stay stable even though the actual number of AAPIs living in poverty has grown dramatically.
Between 1994 and 2014 the official AAPI poverty rate only increased by .3 percent. Yet during the same period, according to the report, the actual number of AAPIs living in poverty increased by 55 percent.
One surprising finding of the report is that poverty growth was higher among native-born AAPIs than immigrants—a rare trend for ethnic populations. This supports the theory that the influx of rich Asian immigrants has MASKED increasing poverty within AAPI communities.
Despite the increase of wealthy Asian immigrants, other AAPI immigrants continue to make up a large portion of that population’s poor. Other drivers of AAPI poverty include low English proficiency and high rates of self-employment. The big narrative is that poverty for Asian Americans is relatively stable; the reality is AAPIs were hurt much more than people think.
Between 1994 and 2014 the official AAPI poverty rate only increased by .3 percent. Yet during the same period, according to the report, the actual number of AAPIs living in poverty increased by 55 percent.
One surprising finding of the report is that poverty growth was higher among native-born AAPIs than immigrants—a rare trend for ethnic populations. This supports the theory that the influx of rich Asian immigrants has MASKED increasing poverty within AAPI communities.
Despite the increase of wealthy Asian immigrants, other AAPI immigrants continue to make up a large portion of that population’s poor. Other drivers of AAPI poverty include low English proficiency and high rates of self-employment. The big narrative is that poverty for Asian Americans is relatively stable; the reality is AAPIs were hurt much more than people think.
10
Asian parents, born in NYC, basketball junkie play hoops all the time , everywhere!
Even when I'm hands down a better player than the token white/black guy , most of the time I'm picked near to last. But then get gratification when I outplay them on the court.
The point is, people of all colors have perceptions of people of all colors it just so happens that Linsanity made it that much more sensitive when he outplayed the entire NBA for that 3 week stretch!
So, if you play well take it as a compliment when referenced as Linsanity! If you play terribly, you will probably always get picked last and still get called Linsanity. Just keep playing that's all you need to do!
Even when I'm hands down a better player than the token white/black guy , most of the time I'm picked near to last. But then get gratification when I outplay them on the court.
The point is, people of all colors have perceptions of people of all colors it just so happens that Linsanity made it that much more sensitive when he outplayed the entire NBA for that 3 week stretch!
So, if you play well take it as a compliment when referenced as Linsanity! If you play terribly, you will probably always get picked last and still get called Linsanity. Just keep playing that's all you need to do!
2
Sadly, the response so far from many of the other readers (who presumably are non-Asians) serves only to underscore the concern so well articulated in this article that they just don't get what racism is. Perhaps it should not be surprising that they can only view it through their own eyes which, having never been the targets of racism, renders them unable to comprehend it or to appreciate why this matters so much to those of us who have lived our entire lives dealing with comments that reflect upon our race on a daily basis. Then again, at least we Asian Americans don't have racist caricatures of us emblazoned on the jerseys of professional sports teams under the pretense that it ennobles our race, and we don't have to suffer the horrors of sexual objectification that our mothers, sisters and daughters continue to endure. Still, it would be nice to see greater understanding on this issue of race reflected in these comments.
39
Great comment. I thoroughly agree that it can be very difficult for those who do not suffer from a certain type of oppression to recognize its pervasiveness or to give weight to its often subtle manifestations. That being said, I would change your second-to-last sentence to "we Asian American *men...don't have to suffer the horrors of sexual objectification that *women continue to endure"
1
Each and every human being is 100% unique with something equally unique to contribute to this world. No two persons look alike, think alike , behave alike or contribute to life alike. Each is wondrous. Well, then you have criminals - they are some what different.
Yes but easily 50% of us have experienced sexism, which can be and often is just as devastating. Walk a mile in a women's shoes (or heels).
This reminds me of a homeless guy in Philadelphia who used to shout "Hiroshima!" at me every morning. Just because I am Asian.
13
I love the expression "even a dog knows the difference between being stumbled upon and kicked." But, it seems to me that many people have forgotten that. Confession - hate me - I like ethnic jokes, including about groups I'm part of or people think I'm part of. To me, the joke is really on how outrageous it is to say something or on actual prejudiced people. I didn't know that anyone felt differently about jokes until I'd say the last 10+ yrs. But, I grew up with Don Rickles and Saturday Night Live. Nor do I understand how in a world where so many people think their ethic identity is so important, that it is insulting if other people recognize what it is. To be fair, many people are not offended or wouldn't be but for peer pressure. But more and more people I know who loved ethnic jokes are now offended.
There is a way to say a word or joke that we all know is an insult. I wouldn't do that on purpose, but it doesn't always matter to some people. My 50+ yr. old vocabulary sometimes offends. Casual words I use with friends may have more than one meaning and some people are quick to believe that they mean the worse way.
Personally, I find people who are extremely sensitive to race issues (obviously, in my view), are sometimes more prejudiced than those who might make an ethnic joke or use colloquial non-slur words now found offensive. But I also feel sorry for them, not because they were unintentionally offended, but b/c it means they feel insecure in some way.
There is a way to say a word or joke that we all know is an insult. I wouldn't do that on purpose, but it doesn't always matter to some people. My 50+ yr. old vocabulary sometimes offends. Casual words I use with friends may have more than one meaning and some people are quick to believe that they mean the worse way.
Personally, I find people who are extremely sensitive to race issues (obviously, in my view), are sometimes more prejudiced than those who might make an ethnic joke or use colloquial non-slur words now found offensive. But I also feel sorry for them, not because they were unintentionally offended, but b/c it means they feel insecure in some way.
6
So here's an example of the difference between a "harmless ethnic joke" - and the type of racism to which the author is referring --
"Hey Dave, you're Jewish right ? So I guess that means you wouldn't mind coming into work on Christmas and covering for the regular guys who need to be home with their families, okay?"
Or -
"Dave, next Wednesday is St Patrick's Day and a bunch of the guys are going to the parade. But since you don't celebrate St. Patrick's Day, because you're Jewish, we thought you wouldn't mind working a double shift."
And - best of all --
"Hey Dave - is it really true what I hear about Jewish people all going out for Chinese food on Christmas Day ? I don't get it - you have the day off anyway, why not celebrate it like everybody else?"
Perhaps that doesn't bother you either...
"Hey Dave, you're Jewish right ? So I guess that means you wouldn't mind coming into work on Christmas and covering for the regular guys who need to be home with their families, okay?"
Or -
"Dave, next Wednesday is St Patrick's Day and a bunch of the guys are going to the parade. But since you don't celebrate St. Patrick's Day, because you're Jewish, we thought you wouldn't mind working a double shift."
And - best of all --
"Hey Dave - is it really true what I hear about Jewish people all going out for Chinese food on Christmas Day ? I don't get it - you have the day off anyway, why not celebrate it like everybody else?"
Perhaps that doesn't bother you either...
3
Sorry, Howard, it would not bother me. Nor would I presume bigotry unless something indicated it. I'd presume they were trying to make things work for everyone in the company. Now, I do celebrate Xmas (but do not suspect you of bigotry because you did not presume that) and would not work even if they fired me. St. Patty's day - I'd be happy to work a double for others. Why read hostility where it doesn't exist? Now, I have experienced actual antisemitism at work. It was directly stated to me so there was no mistake about it (40 some odd years) and perhaps once 15 years ago I was mocked for being an atheist. I could have cared less. I did not say bigotry did not exist. But, much of what many people call prejudice or bigotry today is due to a culture of victimization and over-sensitivity.
1
At no time do any of the video contributors make a reference to the fact that someone could land in the NBA having played, and graduated, from Harvard. This is more astounding than Lin being the rare person of Asian extraction.
8
I have an Asian friend.
She tells me, people often ask her,
"Where are you from?"
She says, "Jersey. Where are you from?"
They look puzzled, but still don't get what they're doing.
She tells me, people often ask her,
"Where are you from?"
She says, "Jersey. Where are you from?"
They look puzzled, but still don't get what they're doing.
34
Dunno. I find the ancestry of people interesting. If I meet an Asian with an obvious US accent, my fist question will not be "where are you from", but over a dinner I will probably ask about the family background and history. Because I am genuinely interested and curious. I wouldn't know what is supposed to be wrong with that. I have a thick Italian accent and don't mind being asked about my life history.
2
Heard this tired story a thousand times. And the other million times people never ask where they are from.
2
An acquaintance came to the States from Romania in the 90's. More often than not, people asked him where his accent was from. Once given the information, they proceeded to rattle off the top of their head; the dictator.. what's his name... and Nadia ... and.. Dracula.. and Budapest.. "Oh, you know Romania?" he would ask smiling. He had given up correcting them on the capital.
6
Uh, sure. But if your Romanian friend has children who grow up in the United States, they will not get that treatment. They will blend in.
The problem here is there are Asian-Americans who were born in the United States, grew up in the United States, are American citizens, who are still treated as perpetual foreigners. They get that treatment even when there are no living people in their family with accents any more. (Or they might have New York accents, Jersey accents, Southern accents, etc.)
That's the difference, and that's what this article is talking about is racism.
The problem here is there are Asian-Americans who were born in the United States, grew up in the United States, are American citizens, who are still treated as perpetual foreigners. They get that treatment even when there are no living people in their family with accents any more. (Or they might have New York accents, Jersey accents, Southern accents, etc.)
That's the difference, and that's what this article is talking about is racism.
6
Being a first generation Asian American I can say that I am proud to finally have a sports figure (other than Michael Chang in the 80's) who is hip and articulate being a role model for my kids. I wish Jeremy Lin much success this season as a New Jersey Net, my son and I will watch your games just because of you.
17
If we really knew him personally he might not be such a role model. Heard years ago when he played for the Knicks he used to hag out in those Korean clubs like Circle in Manhattan...like a choir boy.
Congratulations. Now you know how everyone else from every other race that has ever been stereotyped feels.....Welcome to the club.
19
It appears he was already in the club.
3
Seriously? wow you have a lot of empathy for someone experiencing something so disgusting.
1
I should note that I am the Chritopher Gray from New York city, not the "Copper City, Utah" noted in the post.
This happens to a lot of people. My son is tall (6' 8.5"), white and is skilled at basketball, particularly shooting from long range. Sometimes he gets called Larry Bird, or often Dirk Novitsky. Is it racist if a black guy calls him that? What if a white guy does?
I am a Knicks fan and greatly enjoyed the Linsanity era, as short-lived as it was, and wish him well. And I hope lots of little Asian kids are hitting shots in their driveway or at the park or whereever and using his name ("Lin for the win") to narrate their own highlights reel.
I am a Knicks fan and greatly enjoyed the Linsanity era, as short-lived as it was, and wish him well. And I hope lots of little Asian kids are hitting shots in their driveway or at the park or whereever and using his name ("Lin for the win") to narrate their own highlights reel.
18
I think the point here is how the name is used. When my friend's son was flying around the bases and the ump called him Dee Gordon admiringly - that was a really nice thing to say (at least before Gordon's PED abuse came out!) It was a big compliment for a small guy who prided himself on running fast. But the example of Lin's teammate calling the reporter "Lin" just for walking in the locker room is ignorant and racist.
15
Dee Gordon is small?
That's not even close to the same thing. How about you use your brain and recognize how bothersome this is for a minority group.
5
I commiserate with Eddie Huang, who makes an eloquent case for having more Asian role models in American culture, particularly popular culture. There is a broader point here, however, that that few people (maybe none) like being called upon to represent a whole group in the eyes of outsiders. We all like to be and be treated as the individuals we are. And so, we should make that effort, all of us, to bear that in mind when dealing with individuals. We should also try hard to distinguish between well intentioned comments and those obviously meant for ill.
18
I completely understand where the author is coming from. People I know, and even perfect strangers, call me "George Clooney," so I know from personal experience how awful it is to be teased by pretending to mistake me for a handsome, talented, rich, and nice person.
19
They're probably referring to that episode of ER where he cut himself with a scapel, drooled on the pretty nurse, killed three patients and experienced erectile dysfunction. Yeah, that must be it.
3
George Clooney? Do you know how many people would like to be mistaken for George Clooney? Lucky you! I don't know if you're going to get much sympathy though. Just a head's up.
3
Way back in the ‘70s, when I was in my teens, I used to play basketball quite a bit at the West 4th Street basketball courts, a.k.a. “The Cage.” A lot of times I was the only white player on the court. A lot of times I was frozen-out by my teammates, rarely even touching the ball; the most benign possible explanation was that, since I was a white teenager, it was assumed I had no game (a “non,” in the vernacular).
There were characters and monikers all over the place. There was “Hooks” (he literally on shot hook shots). There was “Pops,” an ancient regular (geez, he was probably 35 at least) whose relative seniority was accentuated by his shaved head and Bill Russel-like goatee. One thing I observed was that it was expedient for nick-names to be assigned to non-regulars as quickly as possible. I was often called “Pistol” or “Jerry West”—this was not done ironically or because I was a lights-out shooter. My friend James—white like me but six foot eight—was, by default, “Walton.” Black guys who wore stylish clothes were universally called “Hollywood,” most often derisively—after the football player Hollywood Henderson (interestingly, NO ONE was called, “Clyde”).
Given the dearth of Asian NBA players, the rare Asian player on the court was immediately dubbed “Bruce Lee.” While I acknowledge the author’s objection to being called “Yao” or “Lin,” it’s better than being called “Jackie Chan,” who—as far as I can determine—is a non. I guess you could call that glacial progress.
There were characters and monikers all over the place. There was “Hooks” (he literally on shot hook shots). There was “Pops,” an ancient regular (geez, he was probably 35 at least) whose relative seniority was accentuated by his shaved head and Bill Russel-like goatee. One thing I observed was that it was expedient for nick-names to be assigned to non-regulars as quickly as possible. I was often called “Pistol” or “Jerry West”—this was not done ironically or because I was a lights-out shooter. My friend James—white like me but six foot eight—was, by default, “Walton.” Black guys who wore stylish clothes were universally called “Hollywood,” most often derisively—after the football player Hollywood Henderson (interestingly, NO ONE was called, “Clyde”).
Given the dearth of Asian NBA players, the rare Asian player on the court was immediately dubbed “Bruce Lee.” While I acknowledge the author’s objection to being called “Yao” or “Lin,” it’s better than being called “Jackie Chan,” who—as far as I can determine—is a non. I guess you could call that glacial progress.
10
Playing basketball growing up all the black kids called me steve nash, pau gaol etc etc because I was white. But the thing is they weren't doing it maliciously it was just dogging each other was fun. Now I'm not justifying what people are doing here but I think intent is important to understand. I understand what they are talking about and how that can be demeaning especially when its so pervasive and by people you don't know, but I think we would all get along better just through exposure. A lot of it is ignorance not malicious and I think this misunderstanding between the two right here drives a lot of the crusades and self-righteousness that turns people off from understanding this issue and empathizing with the very people you're trying to help. So be kind and strong (I know that's asking a lot especially since I don't have to) and try to understand we may not understand. Lastly remember we're the only country that is this diverse no one is even trying to do what we are and there will be bumps into overcoming identity and culture as well as coming to terms with the sins of our past but only if we rally around our identity as Americans and a shared sense of a common humanity will we realize that dream.
11
Did you actually read the article? Because you'll see that the author is not just talking about some comment on the basketball court. It is all over the place, over decades, not in many cases not well-meaning.
As a white person, you are also in the majority of this country. You might be a minority on that one basketball court, but do you honestly that's anywhere close to the same thing?
As a white person, you are also in the majority of this country. You might be a minority on that one basketball court, but do you honestly that's anywhere close to the same thing?
3
I have been called Chink, Slant Eye and Hop Sing from the old Bonanza TV series. That was a long time ago. As a 6 foot 1 inch muscular Asian who loves physical sports you can imagine the number of fights I have been in. Racism is a function of ignorance or in some cases "old school" thinking. Nothing makes me more mad than an old person who seeing an Asian and a non-white kid "acting up" say something to the Asian kid assuming the Asian will not be confrontational. As I got older I realized confrontations lead to no where, living well is the best revenge. Everyone has suffered some sort of racism not just us. I love the first Lady's approach, "When they go lo, we go hi.". I am sure the first Lady would not have approved of the basketball player using Jeremy Lin in a negative way.
People will change and become more acceptable. They already have. Yesterday It was The Cosby Show, bad choice maybe, today Fresh Off the Boat.
People will change and become more acceptable. They already have. Yesterday It was The Cosby Show, bad choice maybe, today Fresh Off the Boat.
21
J -- many of your guys are rich, or UMC (upper middle class).
(((Mic drop)))
(((Mic drop)))
These front page New York Times short documentaries and interactive feature stories are brilliant.
You guys have nailed it.
You guys have nailed it.
6
Agreed. I tend to avoid a lot of videos, impatient with the time. But in the speakers provided a strong sense of their feelings as well as views, which would not have come across fully in a transcript. unique in looks, in words, tone of voice, experience and body language. Which is, after all, what this piece IS about.
It seems as non-white people we all have the same or similar experiences. As an African-American male, I could always tell which AA men were "in" by the way Whites commented upon my resemblance to the "in" AA male of the moment: as a teenager I was thought to resemble Clarence Williams III of "Mod Squad" fame; later it was James Earl Jones; and, finally, it has been Collin Powell.
This, of course, denies us our individuality and says we are not important enough for many White people to learn to tell us apart from one another. We are only acceptable to the extent we remind them of some famous ethnic celebrity.
This, of course, denies us our individuality and says we are not important enough for many White people to learn to tell us apart from one another. We are only acceptable to the extent we remind them of some famous ethnic celebrity.
23
[[This, of course, denies us our individuality.]]
No one can deny you your individuality. You can only surrender it.
No one can deny you your individuality. You can only surrender it.
On the flip side, Mr. Lin has benefited from an inordinate amount of media attention because of his ethnicity. Is that racist as well?
Honestly, I think the NYT's primarily exists today to find racism where there is none.
Honestly, I think the NYT's primarily exists today to find racism where there is none.
14
No, there is genuinely racism against Asian people in general. The Jeremy Lin comments only scratches the surface. Ask an Asian how many times they have been asked "Where are you really from" and you'll know there are systemic problems with Asian racism that people aren't acknowledging until very recently.
55
[[Gus F. Teaneck, NJ
No, there is genuinely racism against Asian people in general.]]
There's racism against everyone in general. It exists, like gravity and the weather. You'll be better off if you stop framing yourself as the MOST afflicted and you just get on with living your life.
When the basketball player asked the author if he was going to tweet about the player's insensitive remark, the author should have said "…maybe" and handed the player his business card from the NY Times.
No, there is genuinely racism against Asian people in general.]]
There's racism against everyone in general. It exists, like gravity and the weather. You'll be better off if you stop framing yourself as the MOST afflicted and you just get on with living your life.
When the basketball player asked the author if he was going to tweet about the player's insensitive remark, the author should have said "…maybe" and handed the player his business card from the NY Times.
You can find racism against any group of people. Nothing compares to the racism that African Americans experience to this day. In my suburban neighborhood, aside from the white majority, there are many Asians and Indians. You would be hard pressed to find an African American family.
I'm a white guy with red hair, and I've been called Opie Taylor, Ginger Rogers, Conan O'Brien, Howdy Doody and every other lame redheaded name in the bunch.
My point is that it may not be the product of racism, but of a more general human tendency toward being reductive jerks.
My point is that it may not be the product of racism, but of a more general human tendency toward being reductive jerks.
78
"My point is that it may not be the product of racism, but of a more general human tendency toward being reductive jerks."
The two are related, not mutually exclusive.
The two are related, not mutually exclusive.
My husband is a Chinese American and I am an Italian/French/Norwegian American. When we first started dating, way back in 1983, people would call him "Michael Chang" the tennis player. They were the nice racists, not the ones who would try to slay us with their disgusted stares. We would tell each other that the next generation will have it better. I'm very sad that that is not the case. But deep in my heart, I still have hope that your children's generation will have it better. Maybe we'll call them them "Generation Inclusive" or "Generation Open". As I said, I have hope.
50
We are making progress. It might feel slow, but remember that only 50 years ago your marriage would have been illegal in most of the American South. It's better for us than for our parents, and better for our children than for us. Yeah, O'Reilly on Fox did a bit from Chinatown a few weeks ago that would've been out of place even 30 years ago, but he was called on it.
2
I married a Chinese woman in 2000 (now deceased) and had 2 children by her. Boy 15--girl 11. (Also, married second Chinese woman -- now divorced) My son told me he had one incident where a boy attacked his ethnicity. He thought the boy was an idiot and mocked him that was the end of that. Both of my children are popular and have had no disabilities arising from being half-Asian and half-White. In fact, my son proudly calls himself a Whasian. When I first got married I thought my children might face something very hurtful out of the blue. It has never come close to happening. In fact my son was such a good playmate (with reasonably productive toys like Legos) that people half begged me to let my son play with their child because the adults thought my son was a good playmate.
My family's experience differs greatly from that of LC.
JD
My family's experience differs greatly from that of LC.
JD
1
At least it's moved on to real people. When I was a kid, it was Short Round and Data. Baby steps, I suppose.
11
Hey, could have been worse -- could have been "Brown Mound of Rebound." And then, you'd be a NBA multi-millionaire.
Round Mound of Rebound…they were highlighting that Barkley was fat, not his race.
Fat is not a form of bias?
http://www.obesity.org/obesity/resources/facts-about-obesity/bias-stigma...
Have a day.
http://www.obesity.org/obesity/resources/facts-about-obesity/bias-stigma...
Have a day.
For many years, some success stories of Asian Americans have masked the reality of families struggling to make ends meet. The fact that few poverty studies have included the Asian American population also has contributed to the invisibility of Asian Americans in poverty. Asian immigrants, who work hard in their active adult life and often after retirement. Their collective labor helps fuel New York City’s economy. Yet most of them remain poor, often trapped on the lower rungs of the economic ladder. This reality raises a fundamental question of economic equity under the social safety net.
9
A good, complex, and thought-provoking article.
4
This is a late night comedy staple and the pay TV repertoire. Energy would best be focused on the powers that channel this behavior in the larger population. In this rare instance, blame the messenger.
This is why players have numbers on their jerseys. It simplifies the complexities of modern life immensely that way.
1
George Bernard Shaw said: "Love means exaggerating the difference between one person and everyone else in the world.
What difference does it make if I think all Oriental people look alike? Why is that offensive? It's a natural reaction to an unfamiliar type. All Irish setters look alike until you come to love one, and then that one is unique. And to any Irish Setter, every one is unique.
Not everything is racism. I think we need a new word, and I propose racialist, meaning derived from race, but not pejorative. For example, 'white skin reflects more light', and 'Oriental people tend to have black hair'.
I think that might ease the absurd epidemic of offendedness we're going through.
Oh, and "Oriental"? Well...take it up with Eddie Wang if it bothers you. It doesn't bother him.
What difference does it make if I think all Oriental people look alike? Why is that offensive? It's a natural reaction to an unfamiliar type. All Irish setters look alike until you come to love one, and then that one is unique. And to any Irish Setter, every one is unique.
Not everything is racism. I think we need a new word, and I propose racialist, meaning derived from race, but not pejorative. For example, 'white skin reflects more light', and 'Oriental people tend to have black hair'.
I think that might ease the absurd epidemic of offendedness we're going through.
Oh, and "Oriental"? Well...take it up with Eddie Wang if it bothers you. It doesn't bother him.
2
You just compared a multicultural and multi-ethnic race of people to a breed of dog.
78
I didn't think we were supposed to use that "O" word anymore. Now it's the "A" word. . . like it really changes anything about the way we feel or think.
1
It doesn't make a difference if you think all (billions of people, by the way) Asian people look alike, just as no private little thought in your head makes an ounce of difference to the world outside of it. What does make a difference is letting somebody know that when you look at them, you don't see an individual, but a vague, blurry amalgam of every racial caricature you've been fed all your life. It makes a difference when you call people names. And when you equate *human beings* to dogs, as if agency and individuality weren't a factor, that's definitely racist, and it definitely makes a difference.
This isn't a matter of the vocabulary you're using, it's a matter of assuming the same capacity for individuality and agency in every person you encounter, regardless of their appearance.
This isn't a matter of the vocabulary you're using, it's a matter of assuming the same capacity for individuality and agency in every person you encounter, regardless of their appearance.
74
It appears it's ok for blacks to make fun of the minority (asians) within the sports or entertainment world (Chris Rock at the Oscar). But are so quick to play the race card when it's done to them.
17
It wasn't okay when Chris Rock did it, and black people were among those who called him out.
27
I was incredulous when I heard this "activist" claim that it wasn't possible for blacks to be racist because it was about power and they didn't have power. Well guess what, when Chris Rock paraded those Asian kids at the Oscars, he had the power and he was racist.
16
Whoa. Did you ever see "Harold & Kumar Go To White Castle?"
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harold_%26_Kumar_Go_to_White_Castle
Brutally funny stereotypes of Korean-Americans and Americans from India -- over-worked banker, medical student. Also messed with everyone.
Besides -- Chris Rock is brutal on everyone. IMHO, he's OK.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harold_%26_Kumar_Go_to_White_Castle
Brutally funny stereotypes of Korean-Americans and Americans from India -- over-worked banker, medical student. Also messed with everyone.
Besides -- Chris Rock is brutal on everyone. IMHO, he's OK.
I remember during Linsanity, random people would come up to me on the street to congratulate me. Me, just a random Asian person walking down the street. It was an interesting time. I didn't mind but it was kind of odd, I thought.
15
You call it "odd."
I call it "ignorant."
I call it "ignorant."
4
Seeing me, one Nets player could not resist: “I thought Jeremy Lin was out tonight,” he said, feigning surprise.
I gave the player an incredulous stare. He broke the silence. “You aren’t going to tweet about that are you?” he said, suddenly serious.
that makes me so angry. he clearly knew what he was saying was wrong (or at least immediately realized it after), knew he probably shouldn't have said it, must have known that it's not funny nor original, yet he couldn't resist the urge to say something, as if any passing, whimsical thought of his is so important it must be shared with the world.
pathetic.
I gave the player an incredulous stare. He broke the silence. “You aren’t going to tweet about that are you?” he said, suddenly serious.
that makes me so angry. he clearly knew what he was saying was wrong (or at least immediately realized it after), knew he probably shouldn't have said it, must have known that it's not funny nor original, yet he couldn't resist the urge to say something, as if any passing, whimsical thought of his is so important it must be shared with the world.
pathetic.
103
At least he realized it was wrong after it came out of his mouth ...
2
And instead of apologizing, he worried about whether or not the aggrieved party was going to tweet about it. Not impressed...
7
"I Was Never Jackie Chan, and I’m Not Jeremy Lin"
From neighbor Joe -- "I got a job, I own a business, I don't have time to navel gaze. People rely on me to show up, and do a good job.
"I live in the greatest country in the world, something the BHO team manages to forget. I know that, because Communists stole my family's land.
"Are there stupid people in the USA? Of course.
"Do I get paid to complain? No, my name is not Hillary. So, I gotta work."
From neighbor Joe -- "I got a job, I own a business, I don't have time to navel gaze. People rely on me to show up, and do a good job.
"I live in the greatest country in the world, something the BHO team manages to forget. I know that, because Communists stole my family's land.
"Are there stupid people in the USA? Of course.
"Do I get paid to complain? No, my name is not Hillary. So, I gotta work."