Post 4: Overcoming the Model Minority Myth

OVERCOMING THE MODEL MINORITY MYTH

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The Model Minority myth seems to only reinforce the foreignness of Asian Americans. No matter how much they try to fit into American culture, no matter how sacrifices they make for the White agenda, the White government, the White companies and corporations, they will not be acknowledged as equal to the White American. So what can be done?

Workplace Discrimination

When it comes to workplace discrimination, Asian Americans are plagued with stereotypes of being passive, anti-social, and undesirable leaders. Despite their high educational attainment and enviable intelligence and self-discipline, many Asian Americans struggle to obtain higher positions in the workplace due to the negative stereotypes that come with being the model minority. One way to overcome this workplace discrimination is using the positive stereotypes to one’s advantage. Asian American employees can gain the favor of their managers and bosses by maintaining a strong work ethic and diligence, traits that can be rewarded through pay. In terms of gaining higher positions, earning recognition for leadership ability requires Asian American workers to demonstrate public speaking skills and strong communication. Such skills can be displayed in meetings or through networking events. 


For individuals who typically struggle with developing such skills, they can seek the help of a mentor in their workplace or industry. There are many Asian Americans who have achieved executive positions across a multitude of fields, and with their guidance, others can also begin their journey along such a path of success. Increasing Asian American representation at the executive level will therefore mitigate negative workplace stereotyping and allow these dedicated workers to gain the recognition they deserve.


Educational Disparities


The model minority myth also masks disparities amongst Asian American groups when it comes to education. The fact of the matter is that not all Asian Americans attain the same level of education as Chinese and Indian Americans. Other groups that are newer immigrants and have a smaller population of second-generation individuals may have a more difficult time assimilating to American society, including navigating the education system. It is the job of schools and universities to provide resources for these families, to broaden their knowledge of the education system and how to set their children up for success. That way, the playing field is more level, encouraging these Asian American students to pursue a college degree and hopefully be more successful in their future careers. 




Islamophobia


Another vital topic to address is Islamophobia. Ignorant hatred towards Muslim-looking individuals has put South Asian Americans at risk of violence and aggression, something that the general public continues to overlook. Again, because the model minority myth paints South Asian Americans as those with high socioeconomic status, their struggles are concealed behind a wall of glorified success stories. After 9/11, many South Asian Americans, including those that identify as Muslim, began changing the way they interacted with society. Some changed their professions to more solitary work environments, while others involved themselves in politics and law to make their voices heard. How these people cope with the fear and trauma that comes with overlooked racism is different for each person, but in the end, the only way to really solve these issues is comradery. To change the minds of the ignorant, South Asian Americans need to look outside of their community, to other minorities who are also hurting and waiting for the day they can call themselves equals. With time, as these groups protest and support one another through their different struggles, America will begin to realize the diversity of their communities and the significance of their experiences with racism. 

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Through persistent avocation and education, Asian Americans will succeed at redefining success.

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