Asian Pacific American 101: 'Positive' stereotypes cause harm


photo collage of portraits
|

Stereotypes can take all forms, even that of “awkward, positive praise.” Regardless of the intent, it’s no less minimizing.  

“The ‘model minority’ stereotype for many Asians can kind of take two folds,” said Hyung Chol Yoo, associate professor of Asian Pacific American studies at Arizona State University. “It can sort of be this awkward, positive praise, but more importantly, it tends to undermine individual effort.”

For Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, a group of ASU students and professors shared their perspectives on this and other stereotypes.

This video is part of a series that began with Native 101. The project has given African Americans, women and veterans a chance to share their own stories and help dispel stereotypes. 

More Sun Devil community

 

Palo Verde Blooms

Student-led business organization celebrates community, Indigenous heritage

ASU has seen significant growth in Native American student enrollment in recent years. And yet, Native American students make up less than 2% of the student population.A member of the Navajo Nation,…

Remembering ASU physical chemist Andrew Chizmeshya

Andrew Chizmeshya, a computational chemist and materials scientist whose work spanned over three decades at Arizona State University, died on March 7 at the age of 63.A dedicated mentor and cherished…

A group of students stand behind a table with ASU swag holding a sign that says Sun Devil Giving Day

Supporters show their generosity during Sun Devil Giving Day 2025

Thousands of Arizona State University supporters from across the globe came together on Sun Devil Giving Day on March 20 to give to scholarships, research, student programs and university initiatives…