Asian People and Public Space

In “Black Men and Public Space,” Brent Staples discusses how his presence as an African American male unnerves people in public areas. Due to the racial stereotype of black males being violent criminals, Staples is often assumed to be “a mugger, rapist, or worse” (Staples 205). His presence creates fear and people scramble to protect themselves. They call security, bring out dogs, lock doors, and run without a second thought. Staples description of his ability to alter public spaces reminded me of my own experiences while teaching at elementary schools where I am considered a minority.

            I teach golf at after school programs and summer camps in the Metro Detroit area. At almost every school where I teach, there is at least one kid who asks me, “Are you Chinese??” In Troy this does not happen as often since many of the students are accustomed to seeing and associating with Asians. However, in areas like Southfield, about half the class will ask this question; when I am teaching with my friend, Jennifer, who is also Asian (disclaimer: we do not look alike), we are even asked if we are sisters! Once when a little girl asked me where I am from, I replied that I am from Florida and no matter how much I insisted that I was not lying, she would not believe me—“You CAN’T be from Florida. You’re ASIAN.” This was mind boggling for her. Instead of focusing on golf, she attempted to understand this but failed because of her inability to look beyond my race.

            Though I am not stereotyped and treated as a criminal, I, too, have experienced the ability to alter public space. People seem to place a lot of importance on race and unfortunately sometimes cannot comprehend how a person doesn’t necessarily fit into their designated labels. Just because Staples is a black male doesn’t mean he is dangerous. Just because Jennifer and I are Asian does not mean that we are from China...or that we are sisters.

...Shout out to Miss Valentino for making great soup at the buildOn benefit dinner!!