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We're Golden, Baby!

The publisher made this suggestion many years ago and to the best of my knowledge, his idea has not caught on. However, after all these years, I have decided he had a good point. I think it would be great for the image of APAs to be thought of as the "golden" or gold race - conjuring up visions of richness, preciousness, purity, high value, rather than yellow, which can mean cowardice, unsightliness, whatever. This simple word association is not as irrelevant as it sounds. People are indeed influenced by simple word association. Why do you think seemingly mindless advertising is so effective? The golden race tag can make a positive difference in the perception of APAs in the American public.

More importantly, however, I think the positive connotation of this gold label can facilitate unity among APAs, who are comprised of countless national, ethnic, cultural and even racial origins. The word has such positive connotations that I can’t imagine any APA group would reject it. Further, it is an appropriate label for APAs. Indeed, Asians and APAs are unique, valuable, blessed with the longest and richest of cultural traditions.

Some may think the golden race idea smacks of racial arrogance. However, I think APAs should really step out and assert themselves on this one. How many of us are tired of Asians being perceived as humble, self-effacing people? We are the products of cultural greatness and we are a people on the rise. Why not have something which can positively unify us? The publisher’s suggestions came well before the Internet existed. Today, with so many APAs wired to the Internet and other forms of communication, I say we push this idea as hard as possible. Tell your friends and relatives about it. If silly urban legends can spread so quickly, then we can just as easily do something positive for our own people, the golden ones.

Note: Joseph Tang is an attorney who lives in Lexington, Kentucky. He writes articles for the 80-20 Initiative and volunteers his time in other ways to this most worthy cause. You may view 80-20's website at: www.80-20initiative.net

ChinaLama's P.S. I didn't even notice this dude wrote for the organization i work for till the end, so no conflict of interest i hope. ;)