A group of students get their test scores back from a recent math test they took. An Asian student got a near perfect score and a non-Asian student said, “Wow you’re so smart; it must be because you’re Asian.” I have unfortunately been told a similar phrase. A person told me, “Of course people that look like you do that extracurricular.” I was very confused and embarrassed about being Asian at that moment but there was nothing I could have changed about myself or my identity. Why do people associate certain ethnic groups with certain academics or extracurriculars? Why are all Asians expected by current norms to be the same?
In today’s society, Asian Americans are often perceived as the “model minority.” A model minority is a group of people that are categorized based on ethnicity or religion who are thought of as more successful socioeconomically compared to the average population’s status. Asian Americans tend to be perceived as more successful compared to other ethnic groups however, with any stereotype, not everyone fits into those categories. These expectations can be offensive because they diminish someone’s achievements by saying that they are only successful because of their race. This may seem like a compliment, but this forces high expectations in terms of performing well academically, especially in fields like science and math. Therefore, the model minority myth is not beneficial because it is making Asians feel as though they are not meeting the “Asian standard” or not “good enough.” Although saying someone is smart because they’re Asian sounds like a compliment, it is still a stereotype.
Another issue is the repeated cycle of ignoring racial phrases directed towards Asian Americans. Although it is easy to ignore these issues, people should stop thinking stereotypes are okay, no matter what racial group is being targeted. According to NBC news, one in four Asian Americans have experienced racist bullying, which is most likely only a smallpercentage of reported anti-Asian bullying going on in schools in the United States. Why are the cries of help from Asian Americans being ignored by today’s society?
Instead of making a comment about someone’s intelligence because of their race, just say “good job” and move on. Stereotyping shapes people’s perceptions and judgements about individuals and groups. Even a positive stereotype is harmful. This applies to everyone, no matter their ethnicity or religon
