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So I wrote the history section of Haunted West on "Chinese people in the West". It's about struggle, racism, and resilience. That's been the Chinese experience in Canada and the US for generations. Still is.
Educational thread incoming.
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Educational thread incoming.
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I think it's really important for people to understand different perspectives - it's how we become more tolerant and come to terms with our privilege. That's why products like Haunted West and Harlem Unbound are so important. That's why I signed on to write for HW.
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Was having Matt as a cast member a good idea? No.
Is Matt being white the only issue we need to discuss? No.
Are Matt and Chris terrible people for doing this? Absolutely not.
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Is Matt being white the only issue we need to discuss? No.
Are Matt and Chris terrible people for doing this? Absolutely not.
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Having a Chinese character in the "Academic" role is certainly subversive for that time period. But, given that Asians STILL struggle with the stereotype of being nerds, this falls short. An Asian rancher or marshal would be just as subversive, without calling on stereotypes.
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Using a found name is a form of cultural covering - a way for a character to mask their identity to fit in. That kind of erasure doesn't need to be on the table. Instead, lean on being Asian. Have a character embrace their culture and stand proud among peers.
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I without a doubt know that Chris had the best of intentions going into this AP. Having a Chinese character in a western actual play is the kind of representation I love.
But this requires A LOT of time and preparation.
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But this requires A LOT of time and preparation.
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What we can learn from this is that we need to take more time to understand different perspectives on oppression, power, and systemic inequality. We need to respectfully address potential harm and do our best to promote change.
Remember, FAIL = First Attempt In Learning
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Remember, FAIL = First Attempt In Learning
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