The National Asian Pacific Center on Aging has issued a second publication focusing on the stories of AAPI elders served through the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP).
Gaur realizes lifelong dream at PSBC
Lakshmi Gaur grew up in Jeypore, in Orissa, India, during the 1950s. Her personality developed during a childhood surrounded by family — aunts, uncles, a grandma, her father, and a sister.
Paul a hidden gem at Seattle Children’s Hospital
Wendy Paul always knew that she wanted to work in a children’s hospital. “When I walk in, there is something about a children’s hospital that’s just different from an adult hospital,” she said.
SYLP: What is hapa?
In 1990, there were reportedly more than one million multiracial people in the United States. However, the U.S. Census did not recognize people that belonged to more than one race until 2000. Throughout history, multiracial people have been discriminated against and have struggled to find their identity. Today, multiracial people are more easily accepted. Still, it is a hard journey for multiracial children to discover what it means to have a multiracial identity.
SYLP: I am not bilingual
The ability to speak a foreign language at an early age is a custom that most Asian families choose to follow. This skill is exceptionally beneficial in expanding the opportunities that a child will have in the future, aiding them in global, personal, and social affairs. But there’s a lot more to it than just that.
SYLP: Reckless youth
As a child, I was scared of teenagers, not that I ever had much interaction with them. There were a few at church, a couple in the locker rooms at the pool. But mainly, what I knew about teenagers came from comments made by my parents.
SYLP: My dad’s story
As a second generation Asian American from a family of refugees, I think it’s important to document my parents’ oral history. When I asked my dad what his experiences were like in fleeing his homeland, Vietnam, he readily opened up.
SYLP: The struggles of Asian immigrants
I remember when we first announced that we were emigrating to the United States. Everyone was congratulating us, and we were considered the lucky ones. They told us that we’ll soon be able to live in a country with high living standards and many new opportunities waiting to be explored. But in reality, are we really lucky?
SYLP: Is there a difference between a refugee and an immigrant?
Is there a difference between a refugee and an immigrant? Yes, there is a difference. Many don’t know or understand the difference between a refugee and an immigrant.
SYLP: For parents, what comes first?
With the economy as it is today, everyone is clinging to their job as if it were their lifeline — and in some cases, it is. However, when my dad lost his job at the start of this month, his siblings applauded. “Now you can focus more time on your son,” they said.