GT makes some very insightful points on what I like to refer as the Asian American condition. He specifically refers to apathy in his vlog and I think it rings all too true. Yes, there may be demonstrations protesting outrage at how Asians are misrepresented in Hollywood films or under-exposed in the music industry. But can we honestly say that there is indeed a market for Asian American artists and entertainers? Who is really to blame for their lack of success?
Generally speaking, Asian Americans have not actively supported the work of Asian American artists, entertainers and filmmakers. This may have to do with the duality of living as an Asian American, which can be a life full of compromises and feeling stuck between two worlds. In my personal experience, I kept both worlds separate. I did not appreciate how Hollywood films portrayed Asians so I decided that if I wanted to see Asians on screen, I would watch a Korean movie instead. There, problem solved, or so I thought. I quickly accepted that Asians and Asian Americans won't find mainstream success or earn respect in the entertainment industry. In other words, I went around the issue instead of helping to resolve it.
I believe that many Asian Americans feel or have felt this way. But it's important to realize that the power to enable change also depends on our actions, not just our words. Although Asian American artists seem scarce, they are out there and need recognition and support. The ability to venture out and connect online is tremendous, and I think we should use it to our advantage to seek them out. Otherwise, everything will remain the same and we will continue to be stuck living in two separate worlds. We need to bridge the gap and allow new voices breathe some fresh air into American society.
Generally speaking, Asian Americans have not actively supported the work of Asian American artists, entertainers and filmmakers. This may have to do with the duality of living as an Asian American, which can be a life full of compromises and feeling stuck between two worlds. In my personal experience, I kept both worlds separate. I did not appreciate how Hollywood films portrayed Asians so I decided that if I wanted to see Asians on screen, I would watch a Korean movie instead. There, problem solved, or so I thought. I quickly accepted that Asians and Asian Americans won't find mainstream success or earn respect in the entertainment industry. In other words, I went around the issue instead of helping to resolve it.
I believe that many Asian Americans feel or have felt this way. But it's important to realize that the power to enable change also depends on our actions, not just our words. Although Asian American artists seem scarce, they are out there and need recognition and support. The ability to venture out and connect online is tremendous, and I think we should use it to our advantage to seek them out. Otherwise, everything will remain the same and we will continue to be stuck living in two separate worlds. We need to bridge the gap and allow new voices breathe some fresh air into American society.
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