Discovering AANHPI Voices: Celebrating AANHPI Month with Literature and Film
.jpg)
Welcome, fellow book lovers! Since May is Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month (or AANHPI), I am excited to share with you a guide to celebrating this special month through literature and multimedia. From the global phenomenon that is BTS to the rich and nuanced world of YA fiction, there is no shortage of diverse AANHPI voices to discover and appreciate. Whether you are a fan of K-Pop or you love diving into the pages of a good book, there is something for everyone to explore this month. So, let's get started on this journey of discovery and celebration of AANHPI culture!
AANHPI Heritage Month is celebrated annually in the United States during the month of May. The observance began in 1977 when a bill was introduced in Congress to recognize the contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders to American history and culture. This is a time to celebrate and recognize the diverse cultures, traditions, and contributions of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders to American society. These communities have made significant contributions to fields such as art, music, literature, science, technology, and politics, among others. AANHPI Heritage Month provides an opportunity to highlight and honor these contributions, as well as to educate and raise awareness about the rich history and experiences of AANHPI communities.
AANHPI Heritage Month also serves as a reminder of the challenges and discrimination that AANHPI individuals and communities have faced throughout history, including the Chinese Exclusion Act, Japanese internment during WWII, and recent anti-Asian sentiment, among others. By learning about and celebrating AANHPI people and cultures, I believe we can work towards creating a more respectful, inclusive, and equitable society for all.
Representation in media is crucial as it shapes how people perceive and understand different cultures and communities. For too long, AANHPI individuals and communities have been underrepresented and stereotyped in mainstream media. However, there has been a recent push for more diverse and authentic representation of AANHPI individuals and cultures in film, television, music, and literature. Through representation, AANHPI individuals and communities can see themselves reflected in the media they consume, which can lead to a sense of validation and pride in one's identity. Accurate representation can also educate and inform others about the diverse experiences and contributions of AANHPI communities. By supporting and promoting works by AANHPI creators, we can contribute to a more inclusive and representative media landscape.
In recent years, Asian culture, and things like K-pop and the series Squid Game in particular, have exploded in worldwide popularity. I think this can be attributed to a number of factors, including globalization, the rise of social media, and the acknowledgement of the need for diverse representation in mainstream media. The continued growth of Asian cultures represented in mainstream media reflects a growing desire for more diverse and inclusive representation in our entertainment. In 2018, the movie Crazy Rich Asians was released, which featured a predominantly Asian cast and crew, and went on to become a commercial and critical success. This movie helped to showcase the talents and stories of Asian actors and filmmakers, and paved the way for more diverse representation in Hollywood.
Even more recently, Disney has released a number of movies that celebrate Asian cultures, such as Raya and the Last Dragon and Turning Red. Raya and the Last Dragon features a predominantly Asian voice cast, and draws inspiration from different Southeast Asian cultures and mythology. Turning Red is a coming-of-age story about a Chinese-Canadian girl who transforms into a giant red panda when she gets too excited or emotional. Both of these movies have been well-received by audiences and critics alike, and are helping to bring more attention to the richness and diversity of Asian cultures.
As part of the celebration of AANHPI Heritage Month, I have compiled a list of must-read books and must-see movies that feature Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander characters, cultures, and experiences. These books and films provide a window into the rich and diverse world of AANHPI literature and culture, showcasing stories that are both relatable and illuminating. From heart-wrenching tales of immigration and identity to heartwarming stories of family and friendship to action-packed super hero tales, these stories will take you on a journey through the lives and experiences of AANHPI people.
So, whether you are looking to discover new voices or simply seeking to expand your horizons, I hope these lists will inspire you to explore the vibrant world of diverse literature and media.
Recommended AANHPI Books
.jpg)
- Beneath the Wide Silk Sky by Emily Inouye Huey - this book follows the story of Sam Sakamoto's life on her family farm in Washington State after the death of her mother. When the Pearl Harbor attack in 1941 intensifies discrimination towards Japanese Americans, Sam's community is torn apart by bigotry. Despite the rising hatred, Sam forms an unexpected friendship with her neighbor, Hiro Tanaka, who offers her a chance to resume her passion for photography. Sam soon realizes that she can use her camera to document the bigotry and fight against the relocation camps that the US government is planning to put Japanese Americans in. In her debut novel, Emily Inouye Huey draws from her family's history to tell a moving story about the relationship between patriotism and protest, racism during WWII, and the lead-up to Japanese incarceration.
- Queen of the Tiles by Hanna Alkaf - Najwa Bakri enters a Scrabble competition as part of her healing process after her best friend Trina's death. However, Trina was also the reigning Scrabble champion, and with her gone, the competition for the crown is fierce. As Najwa tries to move on from Trina's death, cryptic messages from Trina's supposedly inactive Instagram account appear, hinting at foul play in her death. Najwa sets out to uncover the truth and discovers secrets among her friends that she never expected.
- The Silence that Binds Us by Joanna Ho - this book follows the story of Maybelline Chen, or May, a Chinese Taiwanese American teenager who does not conform to her mother's expectations of being a proper daughter. May's world crumbles after her beloved brother, Danny, dies by suicide, and racist accusations are hurled against her family. The novel tackles the issues of racism, mental health, and the power of writing. May's own journey encourages readers to speak their truth and take control of their narratives.
- American Born Chinese by Gene Luen Yang - A graphic novel that weaves together three seemingly unrelated stories about identity, stereotypes, and cultural expectations. Soon to be released as a live action series on Disney+ (May 24, 2023 release date)!
- Front Desk by Kelly Yang - A middle grade novel about a Chinese American girl who helps her parents manage a motel and faces discrimination and adversity along the way.
- I Love You So Mochi by Sarah Kuhn - A young adult romance about a Japanese American teen who travels to Japan to connect with her grandparents and explore her family's heritage, while also falling in love.
- The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan - This classic novel follows four Chinese American women and their relationships with their immigrant mothers, exploring themes of identity, family, and cultural heritage.
- The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini - a bestselling novel that follows the story of a young boy from Afghanistan who grows up in the US and returns to his homeland to make things right.
- Life of Pi by Yann Martel is a bestselling novel that tells the story of a young Indian boy named Pi who survives a shipwreck and is stranded in the Pacific Ocean on a lifeboat with a Bengal tiger named Richard Parker.
- The Map of Salt and Stars by Jennifer Zeynab Joukhadar - a novel that weaves together the stories of a Syrian-American girl in present-day America and a medieval girl who travels across the Middle East.
- The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri - a novel about the struggles of an Indian-American man named Gogol Ganguli who was named after the famous Russian writer Nikolai Gogol.
- Patron Saints of Nothing by Randy Ribay - After his cousin is killed in the Philippines, a Filipino American teen travels to his family's home country to learn about his heritage and uncover the truth behind his cousin's death.
- A Place for Us by Fatima Farheen Mirza is a novel that explores the complexities of a Muslim Indian-American family as they navigate love, loss, and identity.
- Forest of Souls by Lori M. Lee - a fantasy set in a world where people can commune with spirits, featuring a Southeast Asian-inspired world and a protagonist who uncovers a dangerous conspiracy.
- A Magic Steeped in Poison by Judy Lin is a YA fantasy novel that features a determined heroine, a unique magic system, and a complex web of political intrigue.
- Spin the Dawn by Elizabeth Lim - a reimagining of Mulan set in a fantastical East Asian world, where a young girl disguises herself as a boy to compete for the position of imperial tailor and embarks on a dangerous journey.
- A Thousand Beginnings and Endings edited by Ellen Oh - a collection of reimagined Asian myths and legends, featuring stories by various AANHPI authors.
- Warcross by Marie Lu - a sci-fi/fantasy hybrid that takes place in a world where people compete in virtual reality games, featuring a Chinese American protagonist and exploring themes of identity, technology, and power.
- Last Boat Out of Shanghai: The Epic Story of the Chinese Who Fled Mao's Revolution by Helen Zia - a gripping and poignant account of the experiences of Chinese immigrants who fled their country during Mao's Cultural Revolution and their struggles to build new lives in America.
- The Magical Language of Others by E.J. Koh - a memoir in which the author explores her relationship with her mother and her Korean heritage, and the impact of language and translation on family and identity.
- Minor Feelings: An Asian American Reckoning by Cathy Park Hong - a collection of essays that explores the author's experiences as an Asian American woman and the broader themes of race, identity, and cultural assimilation in America.
- The Myth of the Model Minority: Asian Americans Facing Racism by Rosalind S. Chou - a book that challenges the "model minority" stereotype often applied to Asian Americans and examines the racism they face in the United States.
- Strangers from a Different Shore: A History of Asian Americans by Ronald Takaki - a comprehensive and engaging account of the experiences of Asian Americans throughout American history, from the early waves of immigration to the present day.
- They Called Us Enemy by George Takei - This graphic memoir recounts Takei's experience growing up in a Japanese American internment camp during World War II.
Recommended AANHPI Films
In recent years, Disney has released several movies featuring Asian characters. Some of my favorites include:
- Aladdin - The story is set in the fictional Arabian city of Agrabah and follows a street urchin named Aladdin as he falls in love with Princess Jasmine and battles against the evil Jafar. I'm a purist and a big fan of the original animated version, but I enjoy the live-action remake (and the Broadway musical) as well.
- Big Hero 6 (2014) - This animated movie is set in the fictional city of San Fransokyo, a hybrid of San Francisco and Tokyo. The story follows a young inventor named Hiro and his robot companion, Baymax, as they team up with a group of superheroes to save the city
- Moana (2016) - Although the main character, Moana, is not specifically Asian, the movie is inspired by the cultures and mythology of Polynesia, which includes many Pacific Islander communities.
- Mulan (2020) - This live-action adaptation of the classic Disney animated movie is based on the Chinese legend of Hua Mulan, a brave warrior who disguises herself as a man to join the army and protect her family. This was one case where I think I preferred the live-action remake over the original animated film.
- Raya and the Last Dragon (2021) - This animated movie is set in the fantasy world of Kumandra, inspired by Southeast Asian cultures. The story follows a young warrior named Raya as she embarks on a quest to find the last dragon and save her kingdom from evil forces.
- Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (2021) - This Marvel superhero movie follows the story of Shang-Chi, a skilled martial artist who is forced to confront his past when he is drawn into the world of the Ten Rings organization, led by his father, Wenwu. With the help of his friend Katy and his estranged sister, Xialing, Shang-Chi must navigate dangerous challenges and face off against powerful enemies to protect the world from the Ten Rings' destructive plans. With its thrilling action sequences, engaging characters, and exploration of Asian mythology and culture, Shang-Chi is a groundbreaking addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe and a must-see for superhero fans and moviegoers alike.
- American Desi (2001) - A coming-of-age film about a young Indian American man named Krishna, who struggles to balance his Indian heritage with his desire to fit in with his American friends at college.
- Bend it Like Beckham (2002) - a British film directed by Gurinder Chadha, which follows the story of a Punjabi Sikh teenager, Jess, who dreams of playing soccer but faces opposition from her conservative family who want her to focus on getting married. With the help of her soccer coach and best friend, Jules, Jess tries to balance her cultural traditions with her passion for the sport and pursue her dreams of playing professionally. The film deals with themes of cultural identity, family values, and the struggle to balance tradition and modernity.
- The Big Sick (2017) - Based on a true story, this romantic comedy follows a Pakistani American comedian named Kumail, who falls in love with a white American woman but struggles to navigate the cultural differences between their families.
- Crazy Rich Asians (2018) - a romantic comedy film based on Kevin Kwan's bestselling novel of the same name. The movie follows the story of Rachel Chu, an economics professor in New York who accompanies her boyfriend, Nick Young, to his best friend's wedding in Singapore. What Rachel doesn't know is that Nick comes from an incredibly wealthy and prominent family in Singapore, and chaos ensues when she's thrown into the world of crazy rich Asians. The movie explores themes of culture clash, family expectations, and the struggle to balance love and tradition. It features an all-Asian cast and became a cultural phenomenon, breaking box office records and being hailed as a significant step forward in Asian representation in Hollywood.
- The Life of Pi (2012) - a visually stunning and emotionally moving film about a young Indian boy named Pi who is stranded on a lifeboat with a Bengal tiger after a shipwreck. Through his harrowing journey across the Pacific, Pi learns the power of faith, survival, and the importance of the stories we tell to make sense of our lives. The film was directed by Ang Lee and is based on the award-winning novel of the same name by Yann Martel.
- Minari (2020) - a film that follows a Korean-American family's pursuit of the American dream in the 1980s. The family moves from California to Arkansas to start a farm, with the patriarch chasing his dream of growing Korean vegetables and the matriarch trying to make their new house feel like home. As they settle into their new life, they face both the challenges of farming and the strains on their relationships, all while trying to navigate their place in America. The film has received critical acclaim for its portrayal of the immigrant experience and its exploration of family dynamics.
- The Namesake (2006) - a film adaptation of the novel of the same name by Jhumpa Lahiri. It follows the story of Gogol Ganguli, the son of Bengali immigrants to the United States, as he navigates his identity as a first-generation American, and explores themes of cultural identity, family dynamics, and the immigrant experience. The movie was critically acclaimed and won several awards for its exploration of the complexities of the immigrant experience.
- Slumdog Millionaire (2008) - this movie follows the story of Jamal Malik, an 18-year-old orphan from the slums of Mumbai, who goes on the Indian version of the game show "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?". As Jamal starts winning more and more money, the show's producers become suspicious of his knowledge and accuse him of cheating. As he is interrogated, Jamal explains how his past experiences living in poverty have provided him with the answers to each question. Through flashbacks, the audience is taken on a journey through Jamal's difficult childhood, including his relationship with his brother and their love interests. The film won multiple Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Adapted Screenplay.
Additional Resources
- AAPI Equity Alliance - The AAPI Equity Alliance is a coalition of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) organizations working together to advance social justice and civil rights for AAPI communities. Their focus is on promoting policy changes and advocating for equitable access to resources, services, and opportunities for AAPIs, particularly those who have been historically marginalized or underrepresented. The alliance also seeks to amplify the voices of AAPI advocates and organizations, and raise awareness about the diverse experiences and contributions of AAPI communities.
- "A History of Asian, South Asian, and Pacific Islander Characters in Disney Films"
- Asian Pacific American Heritage - The Library of Congress is one of the many organizations that participate in this monthly celebration by providing a wealth of resources, exhibits, and programs that highlight the rich history and culture of Asian Pacific Americans. These include books, photographs, manuscripts, recordings, and other materials that document the experiences of Asian Pacific Americans and their communities.
- PBS Learning Media - Asian Americans - This collection offers a variety of multimedia resources that explore the history, culture, and experiences of Asian Americans. The resources include video clips from the documentary, primary source documents, lesson plans, and interactive activities that help students learn about the diverse communities that make up Asian America.
- "Rising Together in Celebration of Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month" - Disney
- "Understanding What the Term AAPI — Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders — Means"
.jpg)
.jpg)
Comments
Post a Comment