In the recently released film “弟弟” (Brother), we meet Chris, a Chinese-American teenager who, despite being born and raised in California, grapples with self-doubt regarding his identity and appearance due to implicit biases from his peers. In an effort to fit in, he tells new friends that he is “mixed race” and struggles with feelings of resentment toward his mother, who still embraces traditional Asian values.
Chris represents a common experience among second-generation Chinese immigrants caught between American and cultural identities. Many, like him, are perceived as “foreigners” because of their looks, yet they feel a disconnect from their immigrant parents, who may not fully adapt to American culture. In the current climate, where anti-Asian sentiments have seen a resurgence, Chinese-Americans who grew up in mainstream contexts may find themselves confused and distressed about their American identities and the racial discrimination they face.
According to a report by the Pew Research Center, one in five Asian Americans has tried to hide aspects of their ancestral culture at some point in their lives, ranging from customs and cuisine to clothing and religious practices, primarily due to fears of ridicule and a desire to assimilate into mainstream society. When their cultural heritage is marginalized, Chinese Americans may feel ashamed of speaking their native language or fear being mocked for enjoying Chinese cuisine.
The United States is fundamentally a nation of immigrants and a melting pot of cultures. Especially today, as Latin music dominates pop charts and K-Pop enjoys immense popularity, Chinese individuals should take pride in their heritage rather than diminish it or attempt to distance themselves from their identity. Historical discrimination, such as that seen in the 1882 Chinese Exclusion Act, arose from perceptions of Chinese laborers as working “like machines.” Such biases are essentially self-serving narratives constructed by the mainstream society to protect its own interests.
Today, Chinese populations account for about 10% of New York City’s demographic, with Chinese-American scientists achieving significant accomplishments across various high-tech fields. Chinese individuals should feel proud of their identity rather than harbor self-loathing; they are integral pillars of society.
