Asian Culture Center welcomes students for discussion on influence in American society

Asian influences are everywhere: in the clothes we wear, in the food we eat, even in films that we watch. But where did this infusion of Asian culture come from? How did it work itself into mainstream American culture? These questions, among others, will be addressed today at the Asian Culture Center’s first session of its roundtable discussion group, “Who are Asian-Pacific Americans?” \nAt noon Friday, the ACC will open its doors to all students and faculty members to discuss the influences and impact of Asian culture in American society. Throughout the session, “Appropriation of Asian Culture by Mainstream America,” both ACC staff members and students will be able to openly address many issues regarding the culture of Asian Americans. \nACC graduate supervisor Lori DesRochers said that the discussion will debate the meaning of sharing cultures and what its impact might be. \n“From Gwen Stefani’s ‘Harajuku Girls’ to kung fu movies to bhangra, Asian imagery and culture seem to be everywhere,” DesRochers said. “Is this appropriation disrespectful to Asian cultures and Asian Americans or simply another example of the hybridization of culture and identity? When is cultural appropriation fetishizing, and when is it a promotion of intercultural understanding?” \nDesRochers expressed her excitement with the discussion group and said she looks forward to “talking to students about these issues and hearing their thoughts.” \nParticipants of the discussion can enjoy a light lunch provided by the ACC, in addition to the wealth of information provided by the dialogue. Future “Who are Asian-Pacific Americans?” discussion groups will address topics such as the role of Asian-Americans in the media, immigration and stereotypes of Asian-Americans. \nFor more information regarding the ACC and its programs, contact the center at acc@indiana.edu or visit its Web site at \nwww.indiana.edu/~acc.