Hi Nina, it means that my Chinese family has lived in America for five generations. If I trace my lineage back in time that includes me, my mother, my grandma, my great-grandpa, and my great-great-grandpa. So the first people on the Chinese side of my family likely arrived in the U.S. in the late 1800s. Hope that clears things up!
Something is different. My father came from England. My mother's mother and father came from Lithuania. I never think of myself as English Lithuanian American. Does it have more to do with how others perceive you?
Many Asian Americans experience the phenomenon of being seen as a "perpetual foreigner," even when their families have been in the U.S. for generations. For example, when people tell you to "go back to your country" or are surprised you speak English just because you're Asian (my mom experienced this constantly when she was younger despite being born here and not speaking any other language). There is also a common assumption that if you're Asian, you must have just arrived in this country.
I call out my Chinese heritage because not everyone realizes I'm Chinese. The other reason is to remind people that Chinese Americans have been in this country just as long as any immigrant group.
I loved this interview. Can't wait to read the book!
This is an interesting intergenerational discussion. I have known about the actress Anna May Wong from my childhood.
I am puzzled by the concept of being fifth generation Chinese American. What does that mean?
Hi Nina, it means that my Chinese family has lived in America for five generations. If I trace my lineage back in time that includes me, my mother, my grandma, my great-grandpa, and my great-great-grandpa. So the first people on the Chinese side of my family likely arrived in the U.S. in the late 1800s. Hope that clears things up!
Something is different. My father came from England. My mother's mother and father came from Lithuania. I never think of myself as English Lithuanian American. Does it have more to do with how others perceive you?
Many Asian Americans experience the phenomenon of being seen as a "perpetual foreigner," even when their families have been in the U.S. for generations. For example, when people tell you to "go back to your country" or are surprised you speak English just because you're Asian (my mom experienced this constantly when she was younger despite being born here and not speaking any other language). There is also a common assumption that if you're Asian, you must have just arrived in this country.
I call out my Chinese heritage because not everyone realizes I'm Chinese. The other reason is to remind people that Chinese Americans have been in this country just as long as any immigrant group.
Thank you Katie. I hope my question was not offensive. I look forward to reading your new book!
Nina
Thanks, Nina! I wasn't offended. Your question is a good one and offered an opportunity for reflection.
Fascinating - will definitely read!