Some of the many things in this world I just don't understand are Asian stereotypes. First of all, Asia is the largest continent in the world. How did stereotyping even happen with so many people? Secondly, why do Asian stereotypes still exist? Don't we live in a globalized community now? Here are some of the most pervasive, and ridiculous, Asian stereotypes.
1. Asian Eyes
Asians are so often described with tiny eyes that small eyes are now known as Asian eyes. This would be one of the Asian stereotypes I find most unbearable. But yet, it's the most mainstream. I really want to scream, "I'M ASIAN BUT I DON'T HAVE SMALL EYES." Yep, I'm one of those.
2. We're All Smart
Now this, I like. It's really flattering how people think that way about us and how I wish it was true. But I have to break it to you guys, it's not, I have Asian friends who aren't as bright as the stereotype suggests. No offense, guys! Love you! And a massive shout out to 'The Suite Life of Zack and Cody' which might be the only show to ever feature a dumb Asian and a smart blonde. How's that for breaking stereotypes? I love it!
3. We All Wear Glasses
Because we're massive geeks, nerds and on every Maths team - right? This is basically what follows point number two. Let me make this clear. Not all Asians have eye problems and we can be vain too. Yes, contact lenses are sold in Asia. Surprise!
4. Asian Nose
I don't really know what to call them but you know how Asian characters in cartoons are always drawn with a button nose. I actually find it quite adorable which is just kind of weird. You can find lots of stereotyping in cartoons, which is rather bad since the audience is mainly kids and it's just going to mislead them at a young age. But no, Asians don't all have the same nose, it's just another stereotype.
5. We Want to Be White
Tina on 'Glee' might have worn blue colored contacts, but most of us don't. There are Asians out there who don't want to be 'that Asian' which is why they get things like plastic surgery, whitening serums and bleached hair. But again, not all of us are like that. I am personally proud to be Asian with my jet black hair that my dad credits to coconut oil he used to feed me everyday.
6. We're Scared of African Americans
It's quite hilarious, really. This stereotype would be hilarious, anyway, but racism is never funny. Like all of the other stereotypes on my list, it's just not true.
7. We're Ultra Conservative
This is kind of outdated as well which I think probably emerged from Chinese communism. I really don't think K-Pop or any Asian pop for that matter actually applies to that. We are more conservative in a way, which isn't a bad thing, but not extreme. Come on, it's the new age.
Everyone's different and unique in their own ways. You can't just typecast a person by their race, that's just racist. Just because I don't match everything on that list, doesn't make me less Asian. Has anybody ever expected anything of you because of your skin color?
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are all Asian women naturally good at math?
- No, math skills vary by individual and are not determined by ethnicity or gender.
- Is it true that Asian women are always quiet and submissive?
- No, Asian women have diverse personalities and are just as outspoken and confident as anyone else.
- Do all Asian women love spicy food?
- No, food preferences vary widely and are not tied to ethnicity.
- Are Asian women expected to be expert cooks?
- No, cooking skills depend on personal interest, not cultural stereotypes.
- Do Asian women all look the same?
- Absolutely not—there is tremendous diversity in appearance among Asian women across the continent.
- Is it true that all Asian women prioritize their family over career?
- No, like anyone else, Asian women balance family and career in ways that suit their personal goals.
- Are Asian women all good at martial arts?
- Martial arts skills depend on training and interest, not ethnicity or gender.
- Do Asian women only date within their ethnicity?
- No, Asian women date people from diverse backgrounds according to their preferences.
- Is speaking multiple languages expected of all Asian women?
- While many Asian women may be multilingual, it is not a universal expectation or requirement.
- Are Asian stereotypes harmful to women's self-esteem?
- Yes, stereotypes oversimplify identities and can negatively affect confidence and opportunities.