Question

What are some similarities and differences between Asians and other minority groups?

Answer 1

I identify with Asian Americans and less so with other minority groups because of race, but I feel there is definitely a stereotypical expectation that comes with being Asian, related to intelligence, respectfulness, and working hard, and fitting into a set mold. In addition, the model minority stereotype relates to the choice to assimmilate by playing the game, excelling and exceeding requirements instead of asking for special, or even equal, treatment, and putting family above ourselves. Of course, stereotypes are just that, they don't apply to everyone who identifies as Asian American.

The people who have migrated over the centuries came with hope and the desire to make better lives for themselves and their children. Most Asians came later and from than other groups, so they came better prepared. Other groups brought by force or escaped from force at home, have been oppressed longer and at a deeper level in this country, so there are more who need speaking up for, thus there are more who need to speak up and more who do, letting their causes be visible. Asians tend to let it go as long as they can keep moving forward within the boundaries of the system. Historically this has worked in general, but now sometimes it doesn't - consider the college entrance imbalances, as an example. There is a strong American influence to stand up for your rights, clashing with cultures that have more tolerance. This is where we see advocacy begin, when those raised here find the strength to start fighting for inequalities.

I'm not one to fight much, and I still don't identify as much with other minority groups, even though I find they are also intelligent, respectful, and hard-working, and on top of that, seeming to have more difficulty managing the effects of race on their lives than I do. I feel a little sheltered, but maybe it's because I don't pay enough attention, or let it roll off my shoulders. Life is too short to worry unless there is danger, and yet, the attitude of nonchalance is also a problem. I try to keep a human perspective, seeing all good people as worthy of my respect, feeling sorry for those who have lost their way in life, and accepting each person's life, work, and struggles. Others' experiences must always be honored and never compared to my own.  

It is more about Asian cultural influences being passed down, because we are less likely to make waves at home, and therefore that translates to how we live and work. It isn't that we don't identify as a minority group, but that we tolerate rather than rise up, we choose to focus our energy on fitting in, not standing out by race, and only standing out in accomplishment. That doesn't work for everyone, and being Asian also faces stereotypes of not being good at things outside the logical box, such as creativity and uniqueness. But in the end, we all choose how we live within the constraints of life, society, and our own circumstances, and all that comes with it. It is very individual, and perhaps that is another reason why things have remained this way. Individual success and family is put above societal progression.
This is just some of my own perspective, but others may find some truth in it.