Diverse: Issues In Higher Education, Volume 27, Issue 7 (5/13/2010). pp. 13-Dec.
Language:
English
Abstract:
When Dr. Chia Youyee Vang arrived at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee five years ago, numerous Hmong students along with community residents called for more courses specifically examining their life experiences. Now, her university offers a certificate in Hmong diaspora studies. It's part of a growing tide within Asian American studies--more ethnic-specific courses and programs. And it suggests that Asian American studies as a field is transitioning its curriculum in response to changing U.S. demographics. However, while some educators understand students' desire to learn more about their histories through ethnic-specific courses like "Vietnamese American Experience," they're concerned students lack an understanding of broader histories, struggles and issues offered in pan-Asian courses. The appeal of ethnic-specific courses is organic, educators say. There's no single Asian culture or language; students are curious about their individual roots. But Dr. Gary Okihiro, a pioneer in Asian American studies, says the discipline isn't necessarily centered on personal identity. Dr. Vang and other educators who support ethnic-specific endeavors also raise concerns about young Asian-Americans becoming too insular within subgroups. Asian subgroups share common political and workplace struggles in this country. Their clout in those areas usually lies in their broader fabric as Asian-Americans, rather than as Hmong-Americans or Korean-Americans, educators say.