The "Passive" Stereotype

Bowing is part of our culture- it's a sign language for politeness, deference, and respect.

A week ago, I had witnessed a store owner wrongfully accusing a mother's toddlers of vandalizing property before the mall security officer. I was ready to offer myself to testify as a witness in case someone moved forward with charges, but my parents chided me for being "nosy"- since it wasn't my business to be involved.

Every time I think about this, I'm reminded why the American public shies away from politics. Even the word "politics" is a dirty one, riddled with shame and corruption. For this reason, many choose not to meddle. And what happens? Apathy forms, leading to a passive society cynical of its government.

Especially in the Asian-American community. Asians in America are invisible. Not because our heights are minimal or that we've pulled off the latest disappearing kung-fu stunt. It may be because of the language barrier or the ingrained Asian value of modesty, but surely that's no excuse for Asians not to step up to be heard. There are Asian activists out there, but there are too few. For example, John Liu, one of New York City's leading councilmen (and the only Asian) related how during caucus meeting time he sat at the table himself because there was no Asian caucus, unlike the already established caucuses other minority groups had congregated.

Asians don't see themselves as part of the American community. And that leaves us first-generation Asian-Americans wondering where we belong; even worse, who we are. Isn't it time to bridge these gaps of communication? How else are we able to voice our concerns for our Asian counterparts who lack our English fluency skills- on the issues of hate crimes on Chinese delivery takeout busboys?

True, we shouldn't butt in where we're not wanted, but there's a place and time to intervene in the right circumstances- and passivity is definitely something not to "bow" down to.

Any thoughts?