Experiences of Racism and Exclusion as an Asian American in a Yoga Studio

Core Concepts

As an Asian American, the author faces racial discrimination and exclusion from their peers at a local yoga studio, despite their efforts to engage with the community.

Abstract

The author, an Asian American, recounts their personal experiences with racism and exclusion in the United States. They describe a conversation with their father, who warned them that they would not survive in America because they are "yellow."
The author then shares two anecdotes that illustrate the racial biases they have encountered. In the first, their white female friend complains about being catcalled, while their black female friend points out that she is never called "hot" but is instead asked to buy drugs. In the second, the author notices that their classmates at the yoga studio they regularly attend seem to ignore and exclude them, despite the author's efforts to engage with the group.
The author concludes that their father was right - Americans are racist, as evidenced by their experiences of being overlooked and forgotten by their peers at the yoga studio. They recount instances where they had conversations with classmates but were not recognized or remembered, leading them to realize that they are being excluded due to their race.

Stats

"People do push Asians into the New York subway tracks, and people need to help in #StopAsianHate!"
"My black female friend responded, 'You lucky girl. They never called me hot; they only ask me to buy drugs!'"

Quotes

"Because you are yellow!"
"Oh! Yeah! We chatted last week. Remember?"

Key Insights Distilled From

American Racist

by Esther Is A ... at lampmaa22.medium.com 04-18-2024

https://lampmaa22.medium.com/american-racist-bc492a23324e

Deeper Inquiries

How can the yoga studio community be made more inclusive and welcoming to people of diverse backgrounds?

To make the yoga studio community more inclusive and welcoming to people of diverse backgrounds, several steps can be taken. Firstly, the studio can implement diversity training for staff and instructors to raise awareness about unconscious biases and promote cultural sensitivity. Encouraging open communication and dialogue about diversity and inclusion within the community can also foster a more welcoming environment. Additionally, actively recruiting instructors and staff from diverse backgrounds can help create a more representative and inclusive space. Offering classes that cater to a variety of cultural preferences and backgrounds can also attract a more diverse clientele and make everyone feel included.

What are the underlying societal and systemic factors that contribute to the racial biases and microaggressions experienced by the author?

The racial biases and microaggressions experienced by the author can be attributed to underlying societal and systemic factors such as historical racism, stereotypes, and discrimination. In the United States, deep-rooted racial prejudices and stereotypes against Asian Americans, as well as other minority groups, have been perpetuated over time. These biases are often reinforced by media portrayals, lack of representation in various sectors, and systemic inequalities in areas such as education and employment. The model minority myth, which portrays Asians as a monolithic group of high achievers, can also lead to the erasure of individual experiences and perpetuate harmful stereotypes. These societal factors contribute to the microaggressions and discrimination faced by the author in everyday interactions.

In what ways can individuals and communities work to address and dismantle the pervasive issue of racism in the United States?

Addressing and dismantling the pervasive issue of racism in the United States requires a multi-faceted approach at both individual and community levels. Individuals can start by educating themselves about the history of racism and its impact on marginalized communities. Engaging in conversations about race, privilege, and systemic inequalities can help raise awareness and promote empathy. Taking action to challenge discriminatory behaviors and language, both in personal interactions and in larger societal contexts, is crucial in combating racism. Communities can work towards creating inclusive spaces that celebrate diversity and actively promote anti-racism initiatives. Supporting organizations and movements that advocate for racial justice, as well as amplifying the voices of marginalized groups, are essential steps in addressing and dismantling racism in the United States.