Tuesday, February 21, 2012

Linsanity

Who is Jeremy Lin? There's certainly been a lot of buzz about this intelligent athlete. Why? Perhaps because he's helped to defy some of the stereotypes about Asian American males. In case you haven't heard, here's a little blurb to help you become more acquainted with "Linsanity." http://diverseeducation.com/article/12604/



For a more intimate look at the Jeremy Lin prior to all the Knicks hype, here's a day in the life of our protagonist:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CLzrLXQIbwM



Of course, all the praises are not unnoticed by some backlash as well.
http://www.nbclosangeles.com/video/#!/on-air/as-seen-on/Is-Lin-Sanity-Getting-Lin-Sensitive-/139767573 (If you have difficulties pulling up the video using the link, try typing in "Jeremy Lin" at the site's search option.)





What do you think of all the hype? Has Jeremy Lin helped to break down stereotypes? Will the backlash lead to even more controversy? The world shall have to wait and see...

Monday, February 6, 2012

Anti-Asian Bullying

Bullying takes on many forms (e.g., physical, verbal, cyber, etc.). The effects can be devastating, as evidenced by recent suicides (http://inamerica.blogs.cnn.com/2012/01/17/opinion-what-the-deaths-of-two-soldiers-say-about-anti-asian-bullying/?hpt=us_bn1). Why do people bully? Who is usually targeted? How can bullying be prevented?

There is a myth that bullies have low self-esteem, however there is evidence that they can be quite confident and charismatic. Victims can be targeted for a variety of reasons, including race, religion, gender, personal disposition. It's important to note that victims are do not provoke the bullying and do not deserve to be treated in such a demeaning manner. Effects of bullying can be social isolation, depression/anxiety, and overall feelings of hopelessness. By-standers who do nothing to intervene can create an atmosphere of tolerance for such abusive behaviors, thus exacerbating the victim's sense of helplessness. A no-tolerance policy for bullying is an effective way to stop bullying, however this needs to be enforced at all levels. Talk to someone in charge and don't stop until soemone listens. That's what students at a high school did until school administrators could create a safe learning environment for them. No one deserves to be bullied.