Page Title
Editor's corner/ Over a cup of tea
Heidi M. Pascual*
Publisher & Editor
* 2006 Journalist of the
Year for the State of
Wisconsin (U.S.-SBA)
Publisher & Editor
* 2006 Journalist of the
Year for the State of
Wisconsin (U.S.-SBA)
Educating our children about our traditional cultures
Asian American parents of my generation and those before us have had one common predicament
in regard to raising their children in the American way of life while instilling in them their own Asian
cultural values, beliefs and traditions: “To what degree should my child imbibe my culture?” In this
context, different groups and often individual parents -- depending on the strength of their
relationship with the U.S.A., their background and factors that affect the quality of their life in America
– approach this question invariably.
Some Asian parents keep their cultural ties as tight as they hold their own lives such that they
speak their own language at home and practice their traditions. Many, including older refugees and
other immigrants, remain unable to speak English fluently. Their children, who grow up in two
cultures (American while outside the home) are left largely on their own to figure out how to balance
these sometimes conflicting traditions. The Hmong, for instance, who came to the U.S. to escape
persecution by the Pathet Lao during the Vietnam War, faced seemingly unsurmountable challenges
of survival in an unfamiliar and treacherous American society’s ‘jungle.’ After about three decades,
the Hmong people in America can proudly say that they have raised thousands upon thousands of
productive American citizens who also succeeded in keeping the Hmong culture alive. Wisconsin is
home to the second largest population of the Hmong people in the U.S., and it has witnessed the
steady progress of the Hmong as their children get educated and become successful professionals
or entrepreneurs. Visit the annual two-day Hmong New Year celebration at Alliant Energy Center in
Dane County to see what I mean. Almost always, every Hmong family there have three generations
of members, the younger ones clearly doing well as they build a future that stemmed from the hard
Asian American parents of my generation and those before us have had one common predicament
in regard to raising their children in the American way of life while instilling in them their own Asian
cultural values, beliefs and traditions: “To what degree should my child imbibe my culture?” In this
context, different groups and often individual parents -- depending on the strength of their
relationship with the U.S.A., their background and factors that affect the quality of their life in America
– approach this question invariably.
Some Asian parents keep their cultural ties as tight as they hold their own lives such that they
speak their own language at home and practice their traditions. Many, including older refugees and
other immigrants, remain unable to speak English fluently. Their children, who grow up in two
cultures (American while outside the home) are left largely on their own to figure out how to balance
these sometimes conflicting traditions. The Hmong, for instance, who came to the U.S. to escape
persecution by the Pathet Lao during the Vietnam War, faced seemingly unsurmountable challenges
of survival in an unfamiliar and treacherous American society’s ‘jungle.’ After about three decades,
the Hmong people in America can proudly say that they have raised thousands upon thousands of
productive American citizens who also succeeded in keeping the Hmong culture alive. Wisconsin is
home to the second largest population of the Hmong people in the U.S., and it has witnessed the
steady progress of the Hmong as their children get educated and become successful professionals
or entrepreneurs. Visit the annual two-day Hmong New Year celebration at Alliant Energy Center in
Dane County to see what I mean. Almost always, every Hmong family there have three generations
of members, the younger ones clearly doing well as they build a future that stemmed from the hard
work and sacrifices of their parents or older siblings.
The Indian community in Wisconsin and elsewhere in the U.S., in general, came in search for higher education or technological
advancement, or for business opportunities. The term “Indians in America” has become synonymous with “computer geeks,”
“tech/IT guys,” “scientists,” “gas station magnates,” etc. Go to any respectable institution in Wisconsin, for example, and you will
readily find Indian Americans doing what they do best. Just at the UW-Hospital and Clinics alone, you will find numerous doctors,
scientists, computer experts, researchers, and other health care practitioners. There is always a sense of pride for Asians in America
to look up to our Indian brothers and sisters who are doing exceptionally well. The beautiful thing is, while success in careers makes
life in America very comfortable, Indians keep their culture intact and make sure their younger generations keep it as well. There are
several Indian associations in Wisconsin that regularly produce events in celebration of their culture and performers include children
and youngsters all the time: the Wisconsin Tamil Sangam, the Association of Indians in America, and the Bengali Association of
Madison, among others. When you attend any of these events, expect hearing Indian languages and dialects spoken, watching
beautiful women in colorful traditional Indian saris, and enjoying performances of Indian classical dance such as Bharatnatyam and
kathak, and of the modern Bollywood –type dance. There is also a particular annual event –Muthamiz Vizha – that focuses on art,
language and music of the Indian culture, whereby children compete and perform their talents.
Filipinos come to America in search of the American Dream. They started emigrating in large numbers at the start of the last
century when the Philippines was ceded by Spain to the U.S. via the Treaty of Paris, during the American occupation of the Islands
which lasted until 1941, and then after World War II. Many of them fought side by side with their American brothers against the
Japanese during that war. Under the Philippine Commonwealth, the American systems (education, court, government, etc.) were
adopted and practiced throughout the country. It is therefore safe to say that Filipinos have become Americanized for over a century
now. It is no accident that Filipinos speak English fluently, love chocolates, Superman, Mickey Mouse, and GI Joes. The first big
batch of Filipino immigrants were plantation workers in Hawaii and California. The makeup of new immigrants, however, have
changed dramatically through the years, as more educated and skilled Filipinos search for good-paying jobs which were then
available in the U.S., particularly in the 1960s. Colleges in the Philippines produced health professionals who now serve Americans
in various capacities. Labor has become the country’s main export and source of revenue. OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers) have
become their family’s lifeline, as the local economy kept dragging people’s livelihood down. Filipinos in the U.S. are very practical
and focused on their goal. Generally, they want their children assimilated right away into the American culture, for reasons of their
own. I think the belief is that it is easier to compete on equal footing with the locals if you are an American yourself. So we start with
English-only language at home and doing everything the American way. While the culture clash usually happens when children
‘misinterpret’ the word “freedom,” parents have the final say of course. Filipino children enjoy the love and support (financial and
otherwise) of their parents before, during and after their college days. There are a few Filipino associations in Wisconsin that cater to
the Filipino American community’s needs, including that of educating children and others about the Filipino culture: FAAWIS (Filipino
American Association of Wisconsin); FANHS-Wisconsin Chapter (Filipino-American National Historical Society); UPAAW (University of
the Philippines Alumni Association-Wisconsin); and PAMANA (Philippine American Association of Madison and Neighboring Areas),
among others.
The Chinese were probably the first group of Asians who emigrated in large numbers a long time ago to the U.S. to work on the
railroads and mining companies. They experienced early on American-style discrimination against alien workers and people of
‘another race.’ Such institutional exclusion brought the Chinese community in the U.S. closer together as they formed Chinatowns.
These enclaves have kept Chinese culture alive to this day. Through the years, however, political improvements in China-U.S.
relations have brought astronomical changes in the way Chinese immigrants are treated locally. Aside from successes in the
education and technology field, Chinese Americans are well- known for being exceptional entrepreneurs, mainly in the food and
manufacturing industries, and alternative health care. Who would not go to a Chinese-owned ‘Asian Food ‘ grocery when you are in
need of any Asian- food ingredient, regardless of the country you’re from. I was also informed by a World Chef in Wisconsin that most
buffet restaurants, as well as some ‘Japanese eateries,’ are now owned by young Chinese businessmen, many of whom sometimes
The Indian community in Wisconsin and elsewhere in the U.S., in general, came in search for higher education or technological
advancement, or for business opportunities. The term “Indians in America” has become synonymous with “computer geeks,”
“tech/IT guys,” “scientists,” “gas station magnates,” etc. Go to any respectable institution in Wisconsin, for example, and you will
readily find Indian Americans doing what they do best. Just at the UW-Hospital and Clinics alone, you will find numerous doctors,
scientists, computer experts, researchers, and other health care practitioners. There is always a sense of pride for Asians in America
to look up to our Indian brothers and sisters who are doing exceptionally well. The beautiful thing is, while success in careers makes
life in America very comfortable, Indians keep their culture intact and make sure their younger generations keep it as well. There are
several Indian associations in Wisconsin that regularly produce events in celebration of their culture and performers include children
and youngsters all the time: the Wisconsin Tamil Sangam, the Association of Indians in America, and the Bengali Association of
Madison, among others. When you attend any of these events, expect hearing Indian languages and dialects spoken, watching
beautiful women in colorful traditional Indian saris, and enjoying performances of Indian classical dance such as Bharatnatyam and
kathak, and of the modern Bollywood –type dance. There is also a particular annual event –Muthamiz Vizha – that focuses on art,
language and music of the Indian culture, whereby children compete and perform their talents.
Filipinos come to America in search of the American Dream. They started emigrating in large numbers at the start of the last
century when the Philippines was ceded by Spain to the U.S. via the Treaty of Paris, during the American occupation of the Islands
which lasted until 1941, and then after World War II. Many of them fought side by side with their American brothers against the
Japanese during that war. Under the Philippine Commonwealth, the American systems (education, court, government, etc.) were
adopted and practiced throughout the country. It is therefore safe to say that Filipinos have become Americanized for over a century
now. It is no accident that Filipinos speak English fluently, love chocolates, Superman, Mickey Mouse, and GI Joes. The first big
batch of Filipino immigrants were plantation workers in Hawaii and California. The makeup of new immigrants, however, have
changed dramatically through the years, as more educated and skilled Filipinos search for good-paying jobs which were then
available in the U.S., particularly in the 1960s. Colleges in the Philippines produced health professionals who now serve Americans
in various capacities. Labor has become the country’s main export and source of revenue. OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers) have
become their family’s lifeline, as the local economy kept dragging people’s livelihood down. Filipinos in the U.S. are very practical
and focused on their goal. Generally, they want their children assimilated right away into the American culture, for reasons of their
own. I think the belief is that it is easier to compete on equal footing with the locals if you are an American yourself. So we start with
English-only language at home and doing everything the American way. While the culture clash usually happens when children
‘misinterpret’ the word “freedom,” parents have the final say of course. Filipino children enjoy the love and support (financial and
otherwise) of their parents before, during and after their college days. There are a few Filipino associations in Wisconsin that cater to
the Filipino American community’s needs, including that of educating children and others about the Filipino culture: FAAWIS (Filipino
American Association of Wisconsin); FANHS-Wisconsin Chapter (Filipino-American National Historical Society); UPAAW (University of
the Philippines Alumni Association-Wisconsin); and PAMANA (Philippine American Association of Madison and Neighboring Areas),
among others.
The Chinese were probably the first group of Asians who emigrated in large numbers a long time ago to the U.S. to work on the
railroads and mining companies. They experienced early on American-style discrimination against alien workers and people of
‘another race.’ Such institutional exclusion brought the Chinese community in the U.S. closer together as they formed Chinatowns.
These enclaves have kept Chinese culture alive to this day. Through the years, however, political improvements in China-U.S.
relations have brought astronomical changes in the way Chinese immigrants are treated locally. Aside from successes in the
education and technology field, Chinese Americans are well- known for being exceptional entrepreneurs, mainly in the food and
manufacturing industries, and alternative health care. Who would not go to a Chinese-owned ‘Asian Food ‘ grocery when you are in
need of any Asian- food ingredient, regardless of the country you’re from. I was also informed by a World Chef in Wisconsin that most
buffet restaurants, as well as some ‘Japanese eateries,’ are now owned by young Chinese businessmen, many of whom sometimes
have very limited English proficiency. One thing is certain
though, Chinese Americans are set on achieving their
American Dream, and their traditional culture is preserved
and practiced through a number of associations that
specifically highlight this mission. Local groups such as the
MACCO (Madison Area Chinese Community Organization) and
the Madison Chinese Cultural Association produce annual
events in celebration of the Chinese culture and history.
Catch any of their performances during China Day at the
Capitol steps, or at the International Festival at the Overture
Center. There are also several Chinese schools and dance
groups that promote Chinese language and culture by
teaching young children the basics.
Other smaller Asian groups in Wisconsin came for similar
reasons as these larger groups, and each of them has a
different story to tell as regards their American experience.
The Japanese American Internment was a very good
example. They were ‘confined’ in relocation centers during
World War II, to prevent a perceived ‘inside support’ to the
Japanese Imperial Army and ‘domestic threat ‘against the
American society. This action possibly led to the creation of
the JACL (Japanese American Civil Liberties) which protects
the rights of ALL Americans regardless of race and creed.
Children of Japanese ancestry should not only be educated
about Japanese culture but also about this dark episode in
American history.
The Asian American invisibility is unmistakably very real
even at this day and age. Through groups and associations
catering to particular communities, Asian cultures are kept
alive and well in Wisconsin and elsewhere. However, there
is a need to get out there and speak up (an American way of
exercising “freedom”) and actively collaborate with groups
other than yours in defense or against any issue at hand. It is
a must for Asian Americans; it is a must for our children to
practice this kind of freedom that sometimes our Asian
cultures choose to set aside and ignore.
though, Chinese Americans are set on achieving their
American Dream, and their traditional culture is preserved
and practiced through a number of associations that
specifically highlight this mission. Local groups such as the
MACCO (Madison Area Chinese Community Organization) and
the Madison Chinese Cultural Association produce annual
events in celebration of the Chinese culture and history.
Catch any of their performances during China Day at the
Capitol steps, or at the International Festival at the Overture
Center. There are also several Chinese schools and dance
groups that promote Chinese language and culture by
teaching young children the basics.
Other smaller Asian groups in Wisconsin came for similar
reasons as these larger groups, and each of them has a
different story to tell as regards their American experience.
The Japanese American Internment was a very good
example. They were ‘confined’ in relocation centers during
World War II, to prevent a perceived ‘inside support’ to the
Japanese Imperial Army and ‘domestic threat ‘against the
American society. This action possibly led to the creation of
the JACL (Japanese American Civil Liberties) which protects
the rights of ALL Americans regardless of race and creed.
Children of Japanese ancestry should not only be educated
about Japanese culture but also about this dark episode in
American history.
The Asian American invisibility is unmistakably very real
even at this day and age. Through groups and associations
catering to particular communities, Asian cultures are kept
alive and well in Wisconsin and elsewhere. However, there
is a need to get out there and speak up (an American way of
exercising “freedom”) and actively collaborate with groups
other than yours in defense or against any issue at hand. It is
a must for Asian Americans; it is a must for our children to
practice this kind of freedom that sometimes our Asian
cultures choose to set aside and ignore.
