The Realization of Americanization Among Asian Americans: A Journey of Identity and Culture

Introduction:

As an individual deeply engaged with When did Asian Americans realize that they were too, I, like many others, have experienced the nuances of cultural identity and assimilation. Unlike Eddie Huang, who had a moment of revelation, my journey with my ethnic and cultural identity has been a more seamless process. Growing up in Hawaii, where Asians were the majority and many were not immigrants, I identified more strongly as American than as Asian or Japanese.

Personal Experience:

Growing up in Hawaii, I observed the melting-pot culture that blended various ethnicities. Unlike my part-white part-Asian friends who often wrestled with the dichotomy, my experience was somewhat different. My exposure to anti-Asian racism was minimal until adulthood, reflecting the socio-economic status and leadership roles played by Asian individuals in the community. This meant that the idea of Americanization became a subtle shift rather than a sudden realization.

Class and Cultural Identity:

As someone who grew up middle-class and attended an expensive private school in working-class neighborhoods, I faced more conflicts about the class component of my cultural identity. The realization that I had been propping up white culture as inherent superiority was a significant moment of self-reflection. This realization is shared by many in our generation as we strive to define an Asian-American identity separate from both White-America and our Asian ancestry.

Cultural Diversity in the United States:

Regionally, the experience of cultural diversity in the United States varies widely. Metropolises such as the San Francisco Bay Area, New York, or Los Angeles feature vibrant cities with multiple cultural centers, making it easier to navigate cultural identities. However, in growing college towns or cities with larger universities, you can observe a growing diversity influenced by incoming international students and families. In contrast, less diverse areas inland may have less cultural representation, but this does not necessarily equate to a lack of openness.

Family Diversity Types:

Asian American families can be categorized into several types. Some families immigrated with their entire family, while others had parents immigrate for work with children born in the US. Some families are born into the culture, while others are born into a more assimilated setting. My family, for example, fits type 2, where my parents came after university and my brother and I were born in Philadelphia. We have dual citizenship and have experienced a blend of American and Thai cultures.

Cultural Integration:

The level of cultural integration varies within each family. We use both Thai and American ways to eat, and while my parents follow traditional flavor profiles, we adapt to personal health preferences. Cultural practices like greeting with respect and teaching our children the appropriate way to greet Thai friends are essential parts of our family life. While some cultural practices are lost each generation, others are maintained, depending on family efforts and resources.

Cultural Preservation:

While most Asian American families have experienced some cultural loss, the ones who care deeply often engage in continuous cultural exploration. This includes traveling to their native countries, learning about and teaching their children about cultural history, and participating in cultural events. This preservation is crucial for passing down cultural heritage and preventing cultural erosion.

The Role of Media:

Shows like Fresh Off the Boat offer a valuable insight into the immigrant experience and the challenges of assimilation. While often criticized for oversimplifying the experiences, these shows can spark important conversations about cultural identity. It is important to recognize the diversity within these portrayals and the nuanced experiences of families.

Conclusion:

The realization of Americanization among Asian Americans is a complex process influenced by a range of social, economic, and cultural factors. It is not a one-size-fits-all experience and varies greatly from one individual or family to another. As we continue to navigate and redefine our identities, it is crucial to appreciate the diversity within the Asian American community and the importance of cultural preservation.

References:

Pei-Mei Lee, ldquo;The Americanization of Asian America,rdquo; Harvard Kalmanovitz Fellowship Reporter, 2010. David Kotsali, ldquo;Cultural Identity of Asian American Youth: Cultural Preservation vs. Americanization,rdquo; Journal of Ethnic Studies, 2019. Yan Zhu, ldquo;Immigrant Experiences and Social Changes in Asian America,rdquo; Sociological Forum, 2018.