Editor's Note: Jeff Yang writes the column Tao Jones for the Wall Street Journal Online, is a regular contributor to WNYC radio, blogging for "The Brian Lehrer Show", and appears weekly on "The Takeaway". He formerly wrote the "Asian Pop" column for the San Francisco Chronicle and was founder and publisher of A magazine. He tweets @originalspin.
By Jeff Yang, Special to CNN
Two young soldiers, Private Danny Chen of Manhattan, New York and Lance Corporal Harry Lew of Santa Clara, California, volunteered for military service over the objections of their families. Both ended up being posted to remote parts of Afghanistan, deep in hostile territory and largely cut off from the world. Both subsequently experienced extended campaigns of harassment at the hands of their comrades-at-arms. And last year, both, it appears, were driven to take their own lives as a result.
Their shocking deaths have raised new questions about hazing in the armed forces — but the truth is, "hazing" isn't even the right word for what they experienced.
After all, hazing is generally part of a process of initiation, in which a newcomer voluntarily undergoes ritual abuse in order to win acceptance within a group.
There was nothing voluntary about the punishment Chen and Lew experienced, and it was designed to alienate them from their peers, not create a path to solidarity. In Chen's case at least, the program of isolation included being repeated called racial slurs like "gook," “chink” and “dragon lady" by his tormentors (all of whom were white).
The more appropriate term for what Chen and Lew faced is targeted bullying — and it's something that's hardly limited to the military.
In fact, recent research suggests that young Asian Americans are facing a bullying epidemic. Last year, the U.S. Departments of Justice and Education released a joint study showing that over half of Asian American teens said they'd been the subject of targeted abuse at school, versus around a third of blacks, Hispanics and whites.
See CNN's special coverage on bullying
There's also plenty of anecdotal evidence to support this phenomenon. In Philadelphia, a series of concerted assaults against Asian American students at South Philadelphia High School in 2009 counted 26 victims in a single day, 13 of whom were sent to the emergency room with serious injuries.
The attacks were part of an ongoing stream of persecution and violence that included racial taunts, anti-immigrant slurs and mockery of accents. The incidents continued, despite pleas for the school administration to intervene, until one student finally organized a strike, with 80 Asian students refusing to attend classes until their physical safety could be guaranteed.
Why are Asian Americans disproportionately targeted for abuse?
A harmonic convergence of factors. There's the perception — and in some cases, the reality — of the "nerd" stereotype. The trinity of social awkwardness, physical frailty and academic overachievement has always served as a magnet for bullies.
There's the rising tide of animosity toward immigrants, particularly those from predominantly countries that are seen as emerging rivals of the United States, like China and India.
There's the plain old fact that those who are "different" in obvious ways — appearance, name, faith, accent — are often the focus of unwanted attention in environments where fitting in is prized, like high school. Or the military.
And especially among immigrants and the children of immigrants, there's the reality that cultural and familial expectations push them to submit to bullying rather than being "disruptive" or succumbing to "distraction."
Yul Kwon speaks out about being bullied, and identity
As a result, incidents of anti-Asian bullying frequently go unreported, and victims can find themselves increasingly distanced from peers, parents and authorities, in a growing sense of desperation.
Over the past ten years, depression rates among Asian Americans have skyrocketed — with young Asian American women, in particular, more likely to be diagnosed with depressive symptoms than those of any other racial or ethnic group.
So have suicide rates: It's now the fifth most common cause of death among Asian Americans; by comparison, among white Americans suicide ranks ninth.
Clusters of Asian American suicides have emerged in situations that are both heavily stressful and highly isolated. Like Cornell University, in remote Ithaca, New York, where nearly two-thirds of suicide victims — 13 of 21 — over the past decade have been Asian, even though Asians currently make up about one-fifth of Cornell's student body.
Or like the remote frontlines of Afghanistan, where soldiers, far from home, family and the comforts of civilization, have only one another to turn to for social and emotional support.
When that sole source of aid and encouragement is removed — when it's replaced instead with coordinated contempt and repeated abuse — it becomes easier to understand the mindset of Lance Corporal Harry Lew when he wrote his final message in pen on the skin of his forearm, before shooting himself with his own rifle: "May hate me now, but in the long run this was the right choice." And then: "I'm sorry, my mom deserves the truth."
We all do.
The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of Jeff Yang.
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The writer of this article points out that the two incidents of military he cites, the perpetrators were white. When he cites the incident at the Philadelphia high school, he completely omits that the attackers were a group of black students – I read the articles when the event occurred – even then, some media sources would not disclose that the attackers were black. Are we trying to lay all of the blame on whites? It's so okay to point of the perpetrators of any crime when they're white, but when minorities commit crimes, we can't disclose their ethnicity? Full disclosure, every time, regardless of the ethnicity of the perpetrators. It's called acurate, unbiased reporting of "the facts, nothing but the facts".
several years ago
He was determined to end his life anyway
and they all carried weapons.
even though he may hate his comrades`guts
it never occur him to kill them first to make them pay
maybe it did occur him but he just want to raise social awareness about the situation without bringing bad names to the whole asian commuity
remind me of a korean kid several years age went psycho and killed dozens of his college mates because of being targeted for God knows how long
and those white kids who got bullied went all the trouble to get a gun to slaughter his alleged enemies
anyway，maybe the people who enjoying bullying so much just can`t learn enough
anyway，maybe the people who enjoying bullying so much just can`t learn enough
As Asian man and went to high school in the 70s, I got tease once in a while but whenever someone said something I did not like, I immediately stood my ground and dare them to say it again and if they do, I kicked their butt. I was once picked on by three black guys and kicked their butts. In no time, the entire school knew about it and no one messed with me afterward. They know who to pick on and who to left alone or avoid. Even if you are weaker, but if you stand your ground, the bullies will back down. Deep down they are all chicken and need to pick on someone to show others that they are tough. All my friends (white, black) used me as their shield. I fight nasty, relentless and will not give up until you are on the ground and bleed.
Its funny how the white americans are going through the anti immigration period but umm since they arent native american then they would of migrated in some part of history themselves so they are migrants themselves. I dont see why its hard to stand up for someone that is going through this when its obvious that person cant stand up for themselves. Some people make me sick
I feel sorry for 2 young Asian men ,Chang and Lew..... We have one life to live , the second Amenment supported anyone to take Arms to defense themself , including Asians,Black , Hispanish people in America ......No exception .
Fight back , young men !
I don't know. For sure, Asians get picked on a lot more than other races that have sort of established their place here. But part of it is also that Asians seem to just take it more. When people made fun of me I always just glared at them and walked away, it never occurred to me to say anything back. The same with guys and physical violence, Asians tend to just take it and walk away, because we don't really want to be the perpetrator of trouble. So... that's a good thing that asian kids are generally better at staying out of trouble, but it does lead to some messed up psychological results. In adulthood, I struggle with self-confidence and figuring out when I should stand up for myself and when I should just grit my teeth and bear it, not specifically against racial injustice but injustice in general–but the insecurity stems from the bullying in childhood. (and this is definitely a problem I see with a lot of other asians around me, population ~30-40 acquaintances and colleagues)
So... yes everyone gets bullied, regardless of race–race just seems to be an easy topic when thinking of a slur. People who don't stand up for themselves tend to be the subject of repeated bullying. As a result, it seems perfectly believable that Asian kids these days face more bullying than other races. But as with almost all Asian-related problems, I feel the solution lies first in questioning our culture and our response to these things, and second with trying to change the way people treat us. Maybe if we threw a few more punches in grade school, people would stop bullying later on in life. Who knows.
I have yet to see any proof of the fact that these men were singled out specifically because of their ethnicity/race.
In Danny Chen's case (aside from all of the hearsay), in his own words he said that the jokes about ethnicity were MUTUAL (his words).
As for Lew, I didn't find anything wrong with using extreme measures to get it into his head that sleeping while on watch, in a WAR ZONE, put the LIVES of others at risk.
Dear Author: An epidemic must consist of more than two examples. Also, if you ask anyone they'll tell you how hard it is to be . Ask a fat person and he'll say fat people are bullied. Ask a black person and he'll say blacks are bullied. Ask a white man...well, you get it. Everyone is bullied. It is always wrong, but it will always be here.
If you read the whole article, he offers more than two examples. Perhaps you should read more than just a few paragraphs before presenting a counterargument.
There are countless assaults and even murders taking place against Asian-Americans, in various states and cities, but they rarely - if ever - make the news.
Imo, as a chinese male, this seems to be harkening back to asian obedience, complete deference to parents, and skewed perspective on how to protect oneself. Being a child of immigrants even though I was born in the US, i was subjected to this upbringing. Although it has the advantages of building diligence and a good work ethic, it is deficient in terms of what is emphasized as important. The repeated pursuit of "perfect" grades will lend us to academic envy and cause most of us to shy away from personal development and standing up for oneself. Having met many asians throughout my lifetime, it wouldn't hurt us to be more open to other races, be less prejudiced, and hit the gym in order to bulk up (if that isn't part of your routine already). Bullying can be remedied by immersing yourself in American culture; for immigrant children, start learning more English and stand up for yourself. As shown by some videos, avoiding a physical confrontation might not be enough. You have to physically do something about it and that develops inner confidence. For Asian women, stop stressing about being a "perfect" porcelain doll or daughter (again, this is my opinion and subject to debate). Be the best woman you can be and break out of the mode that not meeting your parents' expectations won't kill you. This goes for guys as well. This might be a little convoluted but bottom line is to examine yourself as an individual, strengthen yourself, break out of cultures mores deemed ill-suited for American society, which emphasizes individual competence and scrappiness, while keeping the positive aspects of the Asian culture along with other cultures' positive aspects as well. Keep learning about every culture and never shut yourself off from learning.
Imo, our focus tends to be too narrow. We keep looking at bullying and racism from the perspective of one race against another, but in reality, I think it's a FEW members (and they can come from any race, and indeed, they come from ALL races)against whomever THEY PERSONALLY dislike or are jealous of. It's human on human violence, not race on race. I think we need to group those perpetrators together, regardless of race and say "these people have a problem." And then figure out how to educate them or treat them if they need medication or therapy, or maybe lay out consequences (imprisonment, fines?) that send the clear message that this is NOT acceptable behavior. I think that as long as we continue to put it out there as race against race, we keep the hatred and the violence alive by fueling the fire. Most people are decent human beings and need to pull together. There is strength in numbers and we need to let that small segment of the population know that crime, in any form, is NOT ok. We need to let them know that they cannot divide us and pit us against each other with their actions.
I agree. Also I'm no f***ing porcelain doll! but I know what you're talking about.
Though I will say, there's nothing wrong with being proud of your culture either, as long as you're aware when it irritates those around you. I think the solution is not to 100% "americanize" yourself, but to just find out who you are, not who your culture defines you to be. If you project yourself powerfully and confidently then people tend not to see you as easy prey.
These incidents put on blast extreme ignorant behavior from the ignorant. The more fundamental question is, why aren't we doing more to educate our youths?
Why bother, when you are being discriminated to provide a service to your country. There are other ways to provide assistance. Better to file a discrimination charge against them and fight it in court. If such hate crime are happening, the person being discriminated needs to stop playing meek and at least fight back legally.
Having knew/been friends with several Asian people throughout HS, I can say that this is completely true for the same reason I was occasionally bullied – Asian kids are usually pretty quiet. And besides the "all Asians know martial arts" stereotype, there's really nothing threatening about them. Perfect bully-bait.
The only reason the ones I knew had never been treated half so bad as this was because I went to schools that were majority Black/Hispanic – if they were able to get in good with the black kids (especialy the jocks), they were safe because there wasn't a white kid in that school who didn't know that they were outnumbered. The only ones who failed at this were the ones who were new immigrants & did not speak English well – then they were bullied by both blacks & whites.
MY CO-WORKERS ARE VIETNAMESE GUYS, AND THEY SPEAK THEIR OWN LANGUAGE ALL THE TIME, THEY EVEN HAVE THEIR OWN MICROWAVE OVEN, THEY TAKE THEIR LUNCH AWAY IN ANOTHER ROOM, OBVIOUSLY THEY DO NOT WANT TO INTERACT WITH OTHER RACES. WE HAVE HISPANICS GUYS AS WELL AND THEY DO INTERACT WITH US, THEY ARE FUNNY AND FAMILY ORIENTED PEOPLE, SO I BELIEVE THIS PROBLEM WITH THE ASIANS IS THEIR OWN CULPRIT.
First, no need to yell. Second, none of what you said justifies bullying.
hey Diana , they don't care about you when they 're talking by their language , but you tried to be nosy , they should say you're stupid person ( even you 're their boss) , of course by their language ! LOL !
You're a bully and your target is Palin who'se been viciously attacked by liberals who wouldn't dare to do that to say Africans or Jews. I wonder why women have not stood up for her?
Also you want us to beieve that the tea party bullies Asians? Do you have any facts to back this up?
As an Asian american – I will get some revenge today and deliberately and passive-aggressively cause some major harm on some black and white people. I will continue doing this every day and rot their lives from the inside out.
Asians are bullied just like anyone else out there who are different. I went through elementary school with people making fun of my eyes, mocking an accent which I don't even have but I'm over it. I chose to ignore it and stood up for myself. There are some ignorant people out there, but you can't blame the entire group like this article did. Because of two incidents, you can't say its an epidemic.
Read the whole article. He cites more than two examples.
Fact is insecure group bullies the other to cover up their deficiency. people of all walks of lives like White people who are fat or gay or what ever, asians or blacks or women or anyone who is WILLING to be bullied.
If you are not weak at heart and do not care what anyone talks or says no one can bully you period.
Shame on "Liberal Leaf-Eaters" As if you couldn't boost your own story's content with bullying... you intentionally add the military to this equation eluding to something more. We share a brotherhood regardless of race and it's something you'll never understand. Get it right... Our society today is getting sensitive and weak.
over the past couple of years cnn reporting has gone downhill, they report irrelevant issues like kidnappings,torture,murder . why dont they report what exactly is happening agreed they seem to be dividing people along the lines of race and religion what a shame i expected more any news about recall of wisconsin governor..what laws are being passed to supress people opinion like the one wikepedia is protesting against.....
This is so true. I am white, and my last girlfriend and current girlfriend were/are both Chinese, and they are some of the most depressed people I have ever seen. They have the most ridiculous and rough home lives I have ever seen. My ex used to tell me how she was constantly picked on at school and how mean her classmates were to her. It's just horrible. I don't understand why.
The video of the 17 year old Asian boy being beaten is just horrific as well, but thankfully they are catching all the punks responsible for it. We will so how tough they really are.
The Army needs to pay out big time to the families of these victims. There is no way the abuse could have gone unnoticed by the command structure there. If the Army is negligent enough to have these really low quality people in positions of authority, then they need to pay the price.
I don't think Asian's should join in army; there are so many other ways to serve your country. I'm never gonna allow my kids to join army unless they join as HI-TECH CONTRACT Consultant with very good pay. As far bullying goes, Asian Kids need to work hard on school & at some point in life those PURE breed Americans gonna server food when they goes to Restaurent for Lunch/Dinner.
Can everyone safely assume you're trolling and move on with the discussion?
Ahmed, no disrepect sir, but to join the military, 'your kids' would be of adult age, and it would be THEIR choice to make, not yours. In my unit, we had Asians, Russians, Hispanics, African Americans, and saw quite a bit of action during 3 tours in Iraq. We were ALL brothers, and would die to save the other. During battle and downtime, there is NO color, NO race, just Marines. We still stay in contact with each other and still would do anyting for each other. Not ALL units are the way these 2 soldiers had to endure, and it makes me sick. Whn you have an American patch on your shoulder, I don't care if you're pink, you're a brother plain and simple.
Thank you.. you made my day..Best comment I have read in this article.. I will now move on.. Your comment gives me belief in the society..
you sir are an idiot, "pure breed americans", common now what the heck is wrong with you,
Arabs aren't asians.. AHMED.
arabs are asian moron if your from the continent of asia which is the largest then your asian damn people are ignorant as hell
Sometimes the comment thread is more interesting than the article. If someone wants to learn psychology, just read the thread.. And this one is no different..There are lot of sane people and I am happy about that. There are good percent of people who have commented below who needs help. But I find it amazing how judgmental we have come to. Lot of comment shows that we assume it is a white who opposes the content of this article. Lot more judges that a supporter of the article must be a Asian. Then there are blacks and Hispanics who comment their issues are worse than the others.Funny but sad fact is that if you read carefully, everyone who takes side on this is a racist in one way or other. Wow, we need thousands of prophets (Jesus or Mohammad or other) to cure us all (or did they cause this problem!)..
So everyone who agrees with you is "sane" and everyone who doesn't is "racist"? That says a lot about your own psychology, friend.
It's funny that while I was in college I only saw racism towards one group. Any guesses? White males... every minority could say or do whatever they pleased towards white people both inside and outside the classroom. Not once did I hear or observe a single white person insult, assault or make a minority feel bad. In fact, white students actually have to bend over backwards as to not offend anybody just by existing.
where did you go to school? South Carolina?
No, it is not funny.. It is called majority that is to tolerate due to laws.. It happens in every part of the world (except for in some Islamic countries where they can just execute the minority ). If God truly exist, he is probably repenting for he created mouth which is the soul cause of problems (either by speech or for food)..
.. It is called majority that is to tolerate due to laws.. It happens in every part of the world (except for in some Islamic countries where they can just execute the minority ). If God truly exist, he is probably repenting for he created mouth which is the soul cause of problems (either by speech or for food)..
White people bully Asians, Indians, and Middle-easterns because white people are too afraid to make fun of black kids in school now. And EVERY RACE IN THE WORLD makes fun of white people as a result. Black, yellow, or red. It doesn't matter to us. There is just one oppressor and that is the white folks.
Not so much. It's more like a white person looks at you and you feel he's being racist. Which is why we then just ignore all other races, which doesn't help the situation. You already are assuming racism before you even know the white folk. I guarantee you 90% of white folks, especially younger ones never even have a thought of racism on an average day. I'd also venture to guess that a large portion of minorities do? Why, well you're a minority... deal with that. There can't be 1 black person for every white person on TV because that doesn't happen in real life. You want TV to be a real representation of America? You have to get rid of a lot of minorities first!
whites aren't racist....blacks are though. I'm not even white and I can see the obvious bias against them in college. when minorities start making money why do they move to "white suburbs"? why not stay in your ghetto urban areas where people mumble like retarts all day...?
@Ahmad, you are delusional and in denial. Racism cannot be blamed on any one race, It is in all races and ethnicities. You are another person who generalises. People free to live where ever they choose regardless of race. It is you who is racist and ugly in your thoughts. What makes you think all black people live in ghettos. Ghettos are not US centric.
People like me laugh at your stupid comments while we enjoy our time with our internation group of friends.
Wow, you really don't know how the world operates. Every race in the world make fun of whites, especially white Americans because of the stupid, fat, ugly hillbilly rednecks who pick on 3rd world countries by bombing them illegally. Not because you make fun of Asians, Indians and middle easterners. Plus, like the Korean boy that knocked out a white boy in Canada with his LEFT hand, and not his usual right hand confirms whites don't know how to fight when confronted and get their behinds kicked each and every time. Do you know what this white boy that got knocked out did because he was too humiliated? He tried to sue the Asian boy for hospital bills!! LOL. So, my son, that is the reason why whites are the laughing stock of the world. Understand?
response to John Appleton,
You probably witnessed people joking and teasing white males. Not necessarily racism. The sad thing is this... comedians often mock the groups of people that statistically "have it together" or "have little significant social handicap" because they feel are not going to get offended by petty jokes such as "white man can't dance". The sad thing is that people and comedians don't say much about blacks or Hispanics... the groups that are viewed statistically at having hardships in the areas of providing the basic needs. for example a roof over their head, food on the table, steady employment, etc. . the truth is... by not making fun of these groups, society is cutting them slack because they subconsciously have a semi-racist view that these groups are substandard. that in itself is racist.
what a load of crap, this is just KKK propaganda.
OK! Keep believing that all whites are racist. There's probably one in your cupboard right now keeping you from a healthy prosperous life!
what happened? don't like the first amendment. we get to hear racist views from people like you, learn to hear a bit of reality.
I think you are confused between bullying/racism and teasing/racism. If I make you uncomfortable, that's not bullying. If I call you a couple names every now and then, and I'm not exactly someone with the power to humiliate you, that's not bullying.
If I shove you into a locker, if I humiliate you in front of a lot of people, if I insult your family, if I touch/hit/physically contact you in any unwanted way, that crosses a line. How many white male friends who are uncomfortable making eye contact with others have had the line crossed on them by another race? (I bet more than none, but not nearly as much as any other race.) That's what we're talking about here, not what makes white people uncomfortable...
Every time I come on CNN, somehow I get it in my head that it would be a good idea to check the comments and see if anybody had anything intelligent to add to the story/discussion. I do this half knowing that it will in fact make me hate myself and wish i wasn't human, seriously.....the CNN comment section shows some of the worst of humanity, at least Youtube has fart jokes and pointless things of the like mixed in with all the insane and racist comments.
Same here..
I have been introduced to terms I never heard before. It is unbelievable how hateful and narrow minded people are.
There is no “Asian-bullying” epidemic. Get over yourself.
If it weren't for promoting race division CNN wouldn't have anything to post. This is the site that hosts the Black in America series. Really? I'm still waiting for the White in America series, but we all know that will never happen. God forbid we just acknowledge we're all Americans.
It is a pendulum.. before civil war pendulum was on one side.. now it is swinging to the otherside..takes a while to get there..
He's an average Asian
Just a normal guy of Asian persuasion
He's an average Asian
Not good at differential equations
He's not dumb he's not smart
Just an Asian guy with art
He's an average Asian
Nice reference. I love Bobby Lee
EVERYONE gets bullied. It does not matter what you are being bullied about, there is never anything so bad that the only way out is suicide. People just need to make a personal decision to be civilized, upstanding individuals to each other but most people are too easily tempted by evil. Its a shame that this happened, but the root cause of bullying is a fundamental flaw with the modern psyche.
I have to agree. It seems like people just like being mean. I am guilty of it myself. I don't take it to the level of being hurtful to others or even making racial slurs towards other races. I have had some of the best friends a guy could that wasn't the same skin color. I do have to say this though; whites are not the only racist ones. Every race is racist towards another race. Its been that way for centuries. There is always going to be that one person/persons that is like "Oh, well I don't this race because they are the ones responsible for this, this, and this." As far as the two AMERICAN soldiers who took their own lives because of this abuse they were getting it truly is a shame. My heart goes out to their family and friends. Suicide is a permanent solution for a temporary problem.
I spoke with my kid about this last night. Her friends are evolved in bullying other kids. I set her straight about considering other peoples feelings and standing up for people who are being teased. I grew up being one of only a few black kids in a middle class white neighborhood so I know how these kids feel. I endured this crap from students and teachers. Now I expect my kids to set their friends straight if they see it going on.
Good for you for acknowledging it. So many parents brush it off, as "kids will be kids". Just be sure to stay on top of her, because one talk is not going to do it. Unfortunately her friends are learning it from somewhere, and most likely this hatred is steaming from their homes.
It doesn't matter if this story is about someone that is Asian, Hispanic, African American, Indian, Muslim, Christian or Jewish; hatred based on someones ethnicity is alive and well. Our founding fathers would be so proud of their legacy. *rolls eyes* And those of you that are upset because they aren't focusing on your ethnicity, get over it, you contribute to this kind of behavior by your words just as much.
Your kid is evovled? I doubt it.
Great.. wish more were like you..
However, it is true for us Asians... at least for Koreans. Bullies in America are a lot softer than bullies in South Korea... fights don't break up because someone breaks their nose. And I was only 7 years old when I left Korea.
If you haven't noticed, everyone is getting bullied. Rich. Poor. Black. White. Yellow. Red. Tall. Short. Skinny. Fat. Men. Women. Children. Elderly. And on and on.
Get in line.
Exactly. Get over race and realize that you're not the only group being bullied. Everyone has been and will continue to be. Bullying is wrong, but no amount of legislation will stop it. Best to teach your kids self-esteem and pride so they can fight back and move on in life.
You dont get it , do you?
So, my1cent, you so think that only minorities are targeted? Ever been friends with a fat kid? A crippled person? Or maybe it's the part where I say bullying is here to stay that you object to? It's hard to tell, since your posts are not terribly clear, but please let me know which part of "everyone has been bullied" or "bullying has always been here and always will be" you don't agree with.
I agree everyone gets bullied... but trust me racial bullying is a lot worse than a random bully just picking you out. Almost majority of the "white friends" will also spew endless BS about how the Asian language is gibberish when in reality Americans are just too dumb to accept the concept of a difficult language that isn't the easiest dialect like English is.
But whatever. Asians are already outperforming Americans in academics, creativity, innovation, advanced technology, etc. South Korea is even distributing weapons by Samsung to America now. Sooner or later, when the entire "white" union of nations' economy fails, it's the Asian market you'll rely on... which Obama is already moving towards the Asian theater to bolster US influence.Look. US, all the eurozone are all having trouble. Not saying China and S Korea isn't but even for S Korea, such a small country, it's doing very well. Hyundai is already starting to become the new Toyota, same with Kia. LG and Samsung are now beyond reach with their OLED TV's and variety of other gadgets. America has nothing to offer except free and very easy education, yet Americans still failing their own standardized testings and rankings.
Look at what you said before talking about someone else's prejudice: "Americans are just too dumb". Not racism, since America is multi-cultural, but certainly nationalism. If America is not good enough, there are plenty of other places you can live. Of course, in a lot of those places you'd be thrown in prison for expressing your opinion, but hey, at least those people aren't "dumb".
Spoken like a true ultra conservative racist from Texas, God help us.
Brilliant contribution to the discussion, Bill. Bravo. Are you able to debate specific points, or simply to make a surface foolish comment and run?
where are the officers?
The same place they were at Abugrabe or when those Marines were urinating on dead Taliban.
@klpzdm
You have a savvier perspective issue.
Well in the case of Danny Chen, one of those arrested WAS an officer. So that's where they are.
I find it funny you point out the race of the military "whites" but not the blacks in philly beatings. What do you have against whites?
This story is about Asian American soldiers who were bullied by their white brothers at arms. Not about Philly. Why are you so defensive? Do you really think everyone will suddenly turn against white people because of this story? Of course you do...
Didn't you get the memo? Only white males (preferably of christian/non catholic origin) are ok to discriminate against and bully now a days. Come on buddy get with the program and accept the fact you have to pay for all the crimes against non whites that your ancestors perpetrated.
Now of course white women are off limits for obvious reasons. They still have value beyond working and paying taxes to support lazy doper minorities. Nothing says I am a badazz minority like scoring a white chick, even the fat ones will do for most of them.
wow you are a pretty hateful person
Doper? You idiot.
Because of the reocurring theme in these post that black are more racist and commit more hate crimes. Truth is a lot of people of all colors are racist they just dont do anything about it until they have superior numbers or feel threatened. If you were the only white kid in a predominately Asian school you will be picked on.
Surprise surprise, one of CNNs race based stories of the day is not about how much white people hate black people.
Socially asian americans are treated similar to the blacks of 1950's and 60's.. The only difference is at that time society openly acknowledged it, now it is all behind the scenes. Part of the problem is the media's portrayal of asian americans, part of it is the mis belief that asians/ asian americans are out to take jobs from americans and part of it is plain ignorance and stupidity.. I can only hope things change some day, but i am not optimistic..
I can't believe my eyes. CNN is doing a story on people that have problems who are not black. Soledad O'Brien must be off today.
LOL.. Bunch of tree hugging idiots.. YES IM BLACK, Joined the Marines, Experienced Racism like no other, BUT now im a Civilian, BLACK MARINE.. Those 2 were non hackers.. I love how CNN highlights 2 asians, yet we hear nothing of Blacks, LOL Even every one of these Hill billy tree huggers hates obama.. Blames him for everything, YET They dont have the guts to pick up Arms in defense of this country. If you dont like my comment, DOOM ON YOU.. (Google it).. Point is, Welcome to the USA.. Home of the White is IT, everyone else stand back.. We all know it..
Rippley, what you had to offer here really says more about yourself than it does anyone else... please.
I will give him the benefit of the doubt. Him being a marine trumps any racial bitterness I hold in my heart.
Semper Fi Devil Dog! Thank you for the service sir.
Actually it is to highlight.. the Fact that Racism, is indeed alive and well. This Asian commited suicide.. A cowards way out. It is 2012, and we have presidential candidates calling the COMMANDER IN CHIEF, Welfare president. What does that say about the USA. Unfortunate as it is about this Asian fellow warrior, It still does not change the fact that Racism has driven these men to suicide. AND In the ARMY, is has to be some hillbilly's that caused this.
With this, it just proves to the Entire world, How Racist this country is, has been, and will continue to be. Look into your soul, not a man woman or child in this country, ANY RACE, does not have a pure soul... In the MARINES, well i tell you this much.. I LOOVE the CORPS, But even the USMC, blacks were considered DARK GREEN, and whites GREEN.. What does that tell you?? I have scene personally, that Every single race on this planet, bleeds RED BLOOD, Yet still america looks down on all non- whites, even though we serve.. Even though we work.. Even though we are americans..
If you disagree, then Get out of your bubble... Soon...
We never hear anything about blacks? CNN panders to blacks all the time. Also, "Hill billy tree huggers" makes no sense. Tree huggers are hippies and about as liberal as it gets. Hill billies are backwards and backwoods white trash. I live in a concentrated area of tree huggers, and I guarantee you that most of them love Obama. In fact, this white girl will likely be voting for him this November, despite the fact that I don't think he's doing a fantastic job. He's at least better than Bush and better than whatever the GOP is going to puke up.
And, despite the fact that I entirely disagree with everything you've posted, thank you for your service.
The bullying of Asian students in Philadelphia story has been around for a couple years. In virtually all reports, the story's most prominent feature (replicated here in CNN's story) is the DELIBERATE omission of who the bullies are. Almost exclusively, the bullies are black students.
Why hate on Asians? Most Asian immigrants are hardworking, and good at school. They become lawyers, doctors, engineers, etc... haha
I don't care what races you are. If you cool with me, I will be cool with you back. If you mess with me, I will not let you suck another breath of God's great H2O...
Respect.....
That's a shame. My sincerest prayers for these two young men.
Two young men who volunteered to put their shoulder to the wheel and do their part for their country only to be crapped on by others with whom they shared a common goal.
Were their comrades-in-arms not sure who the enemy was or what century they were in?
I thought all Asians knew kung fu and stuff. I wouldn't mess with them. I'd be all, wait... look at him... he's oriental. Then I'd back away.
honestly?
Why join the Army at the first place anyway?
Most of them are dropouts, potheads, and those why can't find decent jobs anyway.
exactly! Why would one want to join the army and go shoot people who have nothing to do with anything in their own lives....
Because there no job creation for economy. Middle Class is holding money. It not moving anywhere.
What a truly ignorant statement, Check you facts and get back with me if you want to debate.
Because they were brainwashed to think that fighting for the government is protecting America and its people.
YAH. .We need cowards to Troll CNN, .. For the Cowards, the non-hackers... NOT EVERYONE CAN BE WARRIORS.. We need people to serve food, Clean my toilets.. We need the racism, to keep people feeling that they are better than everyone else.. people say they hate the 1%.. Well EVERY Vet is a 1%.. YES you need to understand, Racism is what made the USA what it is today.. Why join the Army, well.. If you ask WHY.. i say again, "NOT EVERYONE CAN BE WARRIORS"..... Stay working at walmart...
yeah, that's you
Are we that surprised? Look at what are considered "acceptable" portrayals of Asians Americans on television. Everywhere I look it's some over the top accent and egg roll jokes. So Mitch from Nebraska grows up thinking that ignorance is ok and joins the army and sees every Asian colleague with that context.
...and joins the army...you said, which in of itself is one of the biggest problems...goes to show...what kind of a person would want to go to some place he/she never heard of or has no idea about, to just go and...shoot people...or them...towelheads....
I DO NOT!!!!!!!
This is not an Asian American problem only, it is an American problem. What we are witnessing today, and which few people want to talk about is a perfect (or imperfect) storm of demographic and economic events in our Nation that is changing it forever. Foreign born and American minority groups are the fastest growing and youngest segment of our population. Causcasians are seeing their proportional numbers shrinking and these groups demanding a seat at the table. The majority is feeling uneasy because they feel like it's a direct threat to their dominance, and are reacting accordingly. To be fair, it is not only the majority but African Americans, who are also starting to feel uneasy about the perceived lost of stature and economic opportunity to other minority groups. These are interesting times for America.
We have become a nation of whiners. Whaa whaa whaa. Tommy made fun of me at school! This has always gone on. Suck it up and deal with it and quit being a bunch of lilly livered babies. Americans used to have a backbone. But then again, what would expect from a bunch of people who hired an Islamic Socialist to the Presidency?
They are in the war zone, and you can't just "suck it up".
They good thing is they all carry M16 or 9mm.
Gee whiz Bill. Why grow up and be better as a society when we can make excuses like yours. Do your potential children a favor and don't become a father.
You endorse kicking and punching someone as they scream "Please don't hit me anymore"? Stopping others from assault is not whining, you jerk.
Bill, just shut up.
I may be wrong, but I take it that you are probably one that does that abuse instead of the one been abused.
Yeap, it is official. you are stupid by choice...Islamist socialist is contradiction in terms (at least the way you intented it to be...)
Good luck with that retirement of yours..
Thank you, Bill. Finally someone who was born with an American backbone. By the way, the Irish were considered to be less valuable than slaves for hundreds of years. Do you think they came to be the dominant demographic in Massachussetts, or President for that matter, by whining or killing themselves? Do I endorse hazing in the military, absolutely. If you can't handle someone in your unit "smoking" you or calling you a racial slur then don't join the military. Whites, Blacks, Latinos, etc are all hazed. If your squad sees that you can't handle them hazing you, what do you think they know you'll do in combat. Cowar away and possibly get them killed.
Please, your account of the Irish leaves out their professional victim mentality. No one deserves to be harrassed to the point of suicide. This has nothing to do with whining, this has everything to do with respect: you get it when you give it. Throwing out racial slurs does nothing to promote unit cohesion, and to suggest that it does is the sign of a complete a$$ with a backwards view of what this country is about. What is more to the point is, what do you have against Asian Americans? Please, do tell, Mr. Toughguy. Did one of them make you look like the intellectual weakling you've demonstrated yourself to be? Did one fire you ebcause you could nto cut in the civilan world?
Actually, Real Tom Paine, I married an asian after I graduated college. And what do you know of unit cohesion? I'm fairly certain you've never spent a single day in the military, especially not in a combat unit.
Troll warning folks – do not feed.
Finally some sense. I believe Bill is right. Look at how America use to be. We use to not take crap from anyone. Now when someone comes to this country and says something we do offends them we bend and change our ways for a foreigner. America has lost its backbone.
When I got bullied in 4th grade I got sick of it real fast and stood up for myself. I stopped taking his crap and dished it back one time and that's all it took. I showed him that I had a backbone now and I'm going to use it. These Asian kids need to stand up for them selves and stop whining.
Yes, and if they did stand up for themselves, you would be screaming about them taking over our culture, or some other right-wing nonsense. Please, point to the exact point in time when we stopped having a backbone. We've been engaged in some of the longest military operations in our history because of our backbone and our resolve.
If I were him, I would have shot them all and then pretend to be mentally unstable for trial.
I learned that from the muslim Major who shot a dozen of trash in Taxas.
Most of the white enlists are pretty big & dumb and racists anyway.
What are you, 10 years old?
Hopefully you are not an American. I would be embarrassed to claim that someone like you lives and breathes within the same borders that I call home.
What these guys did is downright atrocious. But all the hate talk about the military on this blog is just disturbing. These men and women put their lives on the line, sometimes paying the ultimate price, to protect your way of life. And this is the thanks you give them?
I don't normally wish ill on others but I might make an exception for you.
I'm sure you've never gone out of your way to help anyone ever. You are a sad little person.
Bill P let me tel you something. If it were not for Blacks being treated the way the were Asians would never be able to enjoy what they have today. Before you knock another race you just keep in mind that the comparison is not even close. We were bullied just for wanted to be treated like human and not like an animal. When we were bullied it was part of the law. If Blacks did not stand up for civil rights Asians would not even have the opportunity to be successful. So do not even compare being enslaved in a country that you were born in verse comimng to a country that someone else died so that you can have basic civil rights and now you come here and beat your chest like you did something yourselves!
This isn't bullying its racism. These men would have been taken more seriously if they would have complained of racism than bullying. Bullying = oh well they will work it out. Racism = oh hell we are about to get our butts handed to us in court. Call it what it is and deal with it appropriately. Keep denying what it is and you will keep getting hit.
Those that harassed these people should be discharged! Military is full of thugs with wild mouths and those that are toooo mouthy should be fired! It does not help that the only people they mainly hire from is in the SOUTH! I think those who go into the military should have a cultural lesson before they go into the miitary. ZERO TOLERANCE!
If I have decided to end my life, I would take the bullies with me and my M16.
Are you still posting?
Apparently for someone who hates CNN you seem to read it and respond an aweful lot.
I suggest you go find another website or go do your homework instead. Is that your mother I hear calling you?
All racism is wrong! What you are seeing today is sheer ignorance and bias from those who feel that they are losing this country due to another who is of a different ethnicity. Sad that many who embrace this ignorance do so simply because that either lack the education or skills to go out to create and maintain a life for themselves.
They practice bigotry simply because it is easier to blame another for their own situation than to go out and get what is necessary to make it. Stop complaining!
im a chink, i was bullied in grade school, middle school, and high school...I fought everyone of them... you win some and lose some, dont need to kill yourself over it...
You have not clue how much further such things can go while in service...and a remote combat zone multiples that by 10.
The situation is compunded in the south, where racisim is still alive. I could never believe when my five year old had the follwoing comment from her fellow student. "I am allergic to brown people like you". She is a five year old student, so she may have no idea what she was talking about. But it definitely was the views of the parents or the family.
in many parts of the south people are still fighting the civil war....don't expect much change. Ignorance, unfortunately, in this country is not a south or north thing. It is a national thing, and most americans are ignorant by CHOICE, arrogant by encouragement, and idiotic by sheer inherent stupidity because it is...cool to be stupid, just take a 'listen' at the expression "i don't care" which happens to be so 'american' compared to other languages/cultures...It is sad, but the greatest country in the world to be host to so many stupid people ....
I guess racism is both an acquired and hereditary social disease. It presents itself in many forms, mostly subtle, that camouflage its very nature. It's viral and tend to mutate into a worse kind over time. Afflicted ones almost never get over it because they never realize and admit their condition. It will persist till the last unsuspecting and susceptible host cease to exist.
A broken record. People, all people, are a pretty huge disappointment. Don't take it personally. I think the propensity of some minority groups to do so is just way to egotistical.
I can tell that you're white. Just know that the longer you invite "others" to join you, and people like you, to stick our heads in the sands, the longer bullys of all kinds win. Learn to stand for something Steve and stop excusing it away as "the norm". If you really believe what you say, please visit one of the many thousands of White racists website and re-post your points of view. ps Make sure you leave your information so they could further discuss your views with you. I bet you'll understand then Steve. Thank you
As a American of Chinese descent, the natural reaction is to want justice and equality. Standing up for yourself is important and defending your wives and daughters even more so. However, that being said, I encourage Asians not to adopt the 'woe is me' victim mentality. Instead, learn, learn and learn: become stronger from any injustice and let it fuel you. Most importantly, become the productive members of society and be good to your community. It is our work ethic and culture of respect that will propel us into a bright future as the next generation of leaders, engineers, doctors etc.. If this message inspires you, press 'like' below.
I am also Asian. My family has been living by that mantra for generations and yet and still, the "other cheek gets slapped" no matter how many times we turn it. I understand your underlying thought but in reality we may have to consider becoming the squeaky wheel or we will continue to suffer the silent torture from knuckleheads like the ones who tormented these two young men. P.s. There is NO shame in standing up and fighting for what we believe. Thank you
America is SO bigoted, so victorian, so small minded. The stupid yap for "English for National Language" etc. Stupid xenophobes.
You have no idea.
Your screen name is "American" and yet you say "America" is this way? So that includes you right?
Don't generalize what a few people do and claim that "America" is this way.
America is not this way. It is always the few who grab the headlines and make it appear like they are the majority.
They are not. And it is people like you who perpetuate the myth that they are.
You are part of the problem, not the solution.
It wouldn't matter if race was involved, bullies are throwbacks to our monkey ancestors, ganging up against anyone that they can simply to prove that they can. It happens in your office, just like it happens amongst guys with guns. Try working in the fast food industry some time.
Of course suicide is just what they want you to do. The question is whether you are willing to give them the satisfaction. I wouldn't, they would have to kill me. And I wouldn't make it easy for them either. Sometimes you have to be a bigger bully than they are...
Just FYI. If anybody saw that Chicago incident, you can find it with the names of all the kids on youtube. Half the kids kicking that kids ass were asian themselves. Not to take away from anything the story says, just pointing it out.
dude you're in denial and full of it.
I will check that out and verify it myself.
As for Kash, I suggest you do the same before you comment. Makes you look downright ignorant.
Compared to Asians – Blacks, Whites and Hispanics achievements pale in comparison. Asian-Americans have succeeded in America directly in the face of blatant racism. They have achieved what blacks and hispanics can only dream of. And they have achieved and arguably surpassed what white people have WHILE enduring racism- something whites have never faced.
Pride is the roof evil all human failings.
You, sir, have lost it.
Asians are also Americans. You need to examine where you want to go.
Unless of course your allegiance lies somewhere else.
In that case, you need to go back to your Asian country.
Can you provide factual evidence to support this rediculous notion?
Considering I am an Asian American and have learned the English language, I can say that 'rediculous' is actually spelled 'ridiculous' – which pretty much provides the 'factual evidence' for Bill P's point.
Bill you must be half white and half Asian. I am 100 % percent Asian and I am here to tell you that are achievements pale in comparison to the other two groups you named. We have been content enough to be docile and quiet so no one could notice us and leave us alone. Well, its time for us to start contributing even more to a society where we've benefited from others fighting for our rights. Kising butt, like you were attempting to do, only keeps us behind and allow more stories like this one, come out. Stand up and finally become a proud Asian man Bill.
Asians are the smartest race on the planet. They shouldn't have been there in the first place: the military is for everyone else.
Some asian are strong enough to be in military , some are not ... there are smart white , strong white , stupid asian and some smart hispanic and some grazy asian .... are we living in the box ?
I see more stupid Whites these days, some taking advantages of fellow Whites.
First of all , I look like mexican but i have an eyes sharp like most chinese or vietnamese. When i went to vietnamese area , most they started talk viet , and when i went to hispanic community they told i am "Mexican", pretty obvious that i have curly like black but there is none of me is consider "white". Speaking about hates .. there always be hates everywhere u are , not only american ,... In my country where i from , we cut throat and eat the heart to ensure some "respect" and show of deep rooten hates among etnics and colors. Its just about "everyone wanna show who is the strongest which are none obviously .... So i never really want to get these "american racism" get into my head because .... Obviously there is no obvious racist oriented on me .... u can call me "thai , viet ,korean , mexican , italian , india, philipines but they never call me exactly where i from or what i am so .... I dont give a damn ... Only one thing my dad thought me when he still alive ...he always said : protect your family with all your heart , your sword and your life ....and i will ... and this is written in my soul until now. But too bad .. those asians .. got victimized ,... yes i felt bad and yes i swear , if someone bother my family .... of course it is holy duty to protect.
Asians are too busy into professional careers, business and academics to stop for a sec and help fellow Asian american victims.
Asian need to form private guards like Jews did against the apes here in NYC
Also Asians are not united- the squinty eyed chinkees think they are superior to darker Indians and the Indians think they are smarter than their mongoloid counterparts.
Asians have no business in military – low class apes and white trash belong there. Unless you join in as officer rank ( west point etc)
Also, small dicked asian gangs harm other Asians – just too scared to attack apes and taco terms.
If you are a viet, chinese, cambodian or korean gang member, shoot few black apes and white trash for fun and then maybe people will take you seriously
You're not very nice!
I know it's not worth saying, but I'll say it anyway: You're stupid.
I know it's not worth saying, but I'll say it anyway: You are genuinely stupid.
Eventually internet make you can say whatever u want ...
You kinda like to drink a lot dontcha?
This is so wrong. But, it is funny just the same. Lighten up people. Asians do plenty of bullying all around the world themselves. They only make up 2/3 of the global population. Think you won't find racism against pale faces in Asia? Think again. And I have ten bucks that says the author of this article still holds full citizenship and passport from his "home" country.
How is that funny?
The military of today is one big fckn' joke, it is nothing but an embarrassment. In life, there are good and bad to everything, and like the military, there are genuine dedications (the few, the good, and the proud), but the majority are just degenerates tarnishing the image of our country.
why are nerds in the miltary in the first place???
Probably to provide support in the ever increasing technical battlefield. Where do you draw the line on nerd anyway? Astronaut? Doctor?
That is such an asinine statement, it's obvious you are an uneducated underachiever.
sorry for your existence.
Are You insane? Do you want yourself to be called as PATHETIC, BARBARIC, UNEDUCATED DIRTY WHITE? Be sure to use words that won't hurt anybody !!
@bigduke: By nerd I think you mean "not a macho like you". Well, to win any battle, you need smart people to analyze the situation and make a strategy to win. Otherwise you dumb machos will be dieing fighting in vein.That is why we need those "nerds" in the military. Looking at how long US has been in Iraq and Afghanistan and the results, it is clear that we need more smart people in the military.
Strategy, technology and communication requires the mind and not the muscle.
I'm a 220lb former Marine "nerd", and you sound like the stain R. Lee Ermy was referring to in Full Metal Jacket. You wouldn't make it 5 minutes into a forced march with an 80lb combat load there internet cowboy.
You Know What? i am Asian American, i have never been bullied. If i were been bullied. I would show then how my fit was hard enough to break theirs teethes and jaws !
I'm guessing you meant to say *fist*
yes sir! thank you for pointing my typo:)
What's up with pointing out the typo? Do you think we can't speak/write properly?
Maybe you would have been bullied if you went to school (which you clearly haven't based on your amazing spelling skills).
I am an ABC and was bullied as a child. I rose up and the tormentors became the tormented. Bully are invariably cowards: the first time you squarely hit one in the jaw or check him with a hockey stick problem solved. As an adult, problems are solved with superior intellect and communications skills. Backed it up with the military training and a tight group, I'm now the last person to be bullied.
I'm 5ft 2inches...and I have messed up alot of 6ft tall morons in my life because they didn't understand the concept of respect and dignity. Never lost a sing fight and always got into fights defending other people from bullies. A man will have to kill me before I bow down to any intimidation antics.
that's my man! like Pacqio?
I'm asian, and
A. I don't really care. if bullying's a problem it's usually because you're doing something wrong.
B. QQ about bullying is just plain weak. grow some balls. Especially those QQing about verbal stuff. Really? Only way words should be able to hurt you if someone throws a dictionary at you.
so tell me i have squinty/slanty eyes. because i do. and i really don't care?
QQ? Really?
WHO CARES
China is taking over anyway
It saddens me that all of you have turned the death of LCpl Harry Lew into a matter of race, without knowing all of the specifics of the case. Lew committed a crime that is a chargable offense, punishable by death – he fell asleep on post, several times, while guarding his fellow Marines, in combat.
Article 113 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice – "Any sentinel or look-out who is found drunk or sleeping upon his post, or leaves it before he is regularly relieved, shall be punished, if the offense is committed in time of war, by death or such other punishment as a court-martial may direct, but if the offense is committed at any other time, by such punishment other than death as a court-martial may direct.”
Did the Marines around Lew attempt to wrongly take justice into their own hands? Yes they did. Did they say and do things that that are crimes in and of themselves? Yes they did.
Lew should have been charged, court-martialed and been subject to whatever punishment the court deemed fit. His actions previous to his suicide could have gotten his fellow Marines killed. I wish he would not have been hazed. I wish he would not have committed suicide. I wish that LCpl Lew would have been held responsible for his own actions.
Our military members, especially those in combat, live hard lives under a strict set of rules; but they are rules that they have full knowledge of. Did his chain of command fail him? Yes they did. Maybe they had hope that they could solve the issues he created without ruining his life, but in the end he ruined his own life.
LCpl Lew was not bullied because he was Asian. LCpl Lew was bullied because he was a below-standard Marine that could not carry his own load and placed the lives of his fellow Marines in danger of being killed on multiple occasions.
By making this statement, are you not yourself making a judgement without knowing the facts?
You are making an assumption that I do not know the facts of the case. You are wrong.
But never mind that. My entire point was this – LCpl Lew was not bullied because he was Asian. LCpl Lew was bullied because he placed the lives of his fellow Marines in danger.
No matter what, it doesn't make it right. LCpl Lew should have been charged, court-martialed and punished. Not bullied to the point of committing suicide.
@BTDT: You are talking as if you were part of the team and have first hand knowledge of what exactly happened. If that is the case, then you should be ashamed of yourself – you and your team must be investigated. However, if you were not part of the team, then it is not clear on what basis you are making such definite claims. In that case it is clear that you suffer from the same type of ignorance the soldier's teammates suffered.
@Umesh – I was not part of the team. There was an investigation. Those that participated have been charged and one of them is being court-martialed. The others are also being punished. This is all public knowledge and a matter of the public record.
This is not an issue of race. Get over yourselves.
@BTDT: Then post a link/reference to the public information from where you got the facts and let people find out the details themselves.
ignorance is suicide.
So you are trying to say that it was Lew's mistake. Show us the proof, show us the resources where you got that report from. Who you really think of yourself by the way. You should use your logic that whoever gets selected in the military are not WEAK. If Lew was selected in the front line then his General should have known about this strength/weakness otherwise he would have been already degraded from his rank.
Before providing any kind of reports, first of all you should know where you got the resource from and yes, at least put effort on yourself to provide the LINK !!
@Umesh and Sushi – Do your own homework and find the truth for yourselves, all the facts are out there. You are so quick to believe what someone states in a single opinion column. I know what I believe based on my knowledge of the facts. My belief is that this was not racially motivated. I really don't care to change your opinion – only you can do that for yourselves.
@BTDT: Since you are contradicting with the author and arguing with other readers stating that you know the "facts", it would have been great if you could substantiate your claims. If you really didn't care to change anyone's opinion, then there was no need to comment on the article. Think about it.
From what I read about Lew, it was true he was derelict in his guard duties. I believe you two should be researching before jumping on B's case. B's assessment was right based on the facts presented to us. Additionally Lew was at fault first, however his immediate supervisor and comrades were stupid and probably stressed out to the point, that they took out everything on him is my belief.
those kids took thier own lives. we have chains of command. and all this racism stuff is ridiculous there are plenty of white dudes who kill themselves but thats no big deal to anybody. its just the media souping things up.the only reason its considered a racist crime is because it happend to a minority and its stupid that the white man gets blamed everytime that sh** happens.
When white people kill themselves its generally not do to racism. In these cases it was. That's why the racists who caused it (who happen to be white like the majority of racists are) are being blamed. Am I going to fast for you?
I believe that Asians have themselves to count on when it comes to solving this problem. You can't count on other people to know that you are in pain when they step on your toes, well may be a couple of times. But eventually, you have to have a voice, then other people start to respect your rights.
Asians need to stop minding only their own business as individuals,. That will work if the US wasn't a racial society. But unfortunately, it is. Thus, Asians need to think racial, and start to make collective effort to improve their well being as a whole.
I've personally experienced enough racial epithets and physical abuse in my childhood, as well as inward and outward racism in adulthood to constantly question my place as an Asian-American in American society, so I can fully empathize with similar experiences of my fellow Asian-Americans. Anytime I read incidences of racially motivated discrimination in this day and age I cringe, but accept it with despondence as the price to pay for existence as such a small minority in this country. Asian-Americans will be the eternal foreigners for a long time to come. Danny Chen's incident broke my heart. Vincent Chen, although almost ancient history, also is a scar on race relations in the US. Nobody dares mention Cho Seung-Hui as a victim of social isolation because maybe he was just crazy, but maybe he was just pushed too far. Yoshihiro Hattori was shot dead at 16 in Louisiana for knocking on the wrong door looking for a party. Who the hell in their right mind shoots a 16 year old, and why does he get acquitted? However, to set the record straight I have to say that this new incident from Chicago does not seem to be racially motivated. 5 out of 7 of the bullies were of Chinese descent, judging from their last names, Li, Wu, and Hui. Just seems to be a case of random bullying to me.
My father was a Chinese immigrant who was naturalized as an US citizen. He served in the navy during WWII and we remembered his passing 60 years ago yesterday. He died from 3 US sailors whom choked him to death in NJ b/c he blocked their path to the stairwell leading up to our living quarters where my mother was on the upper level of his restaurant business.
Growing up in NYC was tough. I can recall that my brother, sisters and I were bullied on many occasions. These were at the hands of blacks, Puerto Ricans, whites and even Asians. What the bullies had in common were ignorance, a feeling of superiority that maybe due to feeling inferior and going with the crowd, rather than to form their own opinion. I believe the root of hatred and bias is learned from their parents, whether copied or implied. I can also remember that there were occasions that my friends stood up for me; they were black, Puerto Ricans, white and Asians.
I am sadden that after so many years, it seems that hatred has been passed down from generation to generation.
BTW, not all Asians are smart, nerds or passive.
Asian Americans, no matter how many generations they've been in the U.S., are perceived to be foreigners; they are the only race, as a whole, seen as perpetual foreigners, maybe with the exception of some individual latino/as/hispanics. And let's be real, racism is a huge problem in the U.S. and Americans have a huge problem with immigrants and perceived immigrants who are non-white, even though all Americans are immigrants except for Native Americans. But again, they were non-white, so we had a problem with that. This article is sad but does not surprise me at all. I do however think that the term "bullying" is an understatement to the racism, prejudice and violence that occurs within this country.
5 Years! Bwaahahaha! Loser!
@uladiesreallyneedD
Is anyone suprised? Cry me a f'ing river next time some of the meatheads drive over an IED.
While it does make some sense to generalize the army cases to cases within the society, I believe doing that sort of minimizes the significance of the army cases.
Those two soldiers joined the army to fight for their country – the US. They both, like other soldiers, offer their loyalty to the country but the country let them down. They were not being accepted by their own comrades in the battle field, where everyone's survival is supposed to depend on each other. I read that the Roman soldiers were paired so that each can look over the other's back during battle. If you cannot depend on your comrades to look over your back in the trenches, how can you fight? Suppose one of these two guys actually got injured during an operation, would his comrades even try to rescue him?
go serve ur time in the military and come back with all of this jibberish.
Try talk tough when you are actually one of those minorities. Then you will sound more compelling even with less hate and contempt in your tone than you have now.
you want me to feel sorry for you because ur a minority?
No, I don't want you to feel sorry for me or anyone for any reason. I just want you to stop talking trash about tragedies when there's no way that you can understand what the two kids had experienced.
You clearly are part of the problem in the military.
More than half of my team is x-military and they served more than your paltry 5 years...none of them present themselves the way you have on this forum. If it took going to the military to "grow balls" as you say and you think telling people to 'man-up' make you successful, you will find many don't share your views. Actually, you know who would, thugs–because that is what you sound like.
This rant by Yang is just typical of the left-leaning multiculturalist world view stuff you see in academia in journalism. How many unsupported facts must we accept? Asian-Americans disproportionately targeted? Half of Asian-Americans targeted for bullying at school? Cause and effect of stereotypes? Rising suicide rates necessarily a by-product of a hostile Anti-Asian environment? And People! Let's get away from the idea that one group or another deserves special recognition just because of some perceived societal injustice. All people are 'fallen.' Yes, individuals suffer abuse that can be a by-product of rascism, bigotry, ignorance, or other sins. But no, the solution is not collective redemption. What is wrong and immoral is wrong and immoral to all individuals, not just a particular victim group. Pvt. Chen and LC Lew died at there own hands, they chose there out; but their redemption will never be found in some collective and nor will ours.
Dr. Martin Luther King would have been so happy to read what you just wrote!!!! Then he didn't have to do all those marches and speeches and subsequently get himself killed! And they wouldn't even need to have all these fights around his memorial.
I am an Asian first generation immigrant and a parent of a two year old. Sometimes it pains me to think about what my son may go through when he grows up. This story makes me depressed.
it makes me depressed as well long wang, just remember its gettin better and not everyone feels that way. im sure you know this. ill be going into navy in a couple of months and ill make sure to stand up too anything like this, even if it puts my life in danger. this is so wrong i dont support it. (((we are stronger together than we are alone-walter payton))) i think good people of all races should stand together more and speak up against racism even when its not there race thats being targeted!!!
We will never be a country as long as we separate each other by race.
Asian American, you don't think white guys get crap from black guys and vice versa in the military? If more people from this culture joined then you would understand the military better. It is a guy place people talk smack. Man the F UP!
And a tough guy like you can say "man the f up" from behind your computer. Ha! You're a joke!
I served my 5 years and didn't shot myself afterwards like a little b
Idiot
yah u served your 5 yrs so what!? does it mean your a better man you stupid moron!..
yes, I learned how to be a man instead of a fing crybaby. R u crying right now as you typed that?
5 Years! Bwaahahaha! Loser!
please I grew more nuts in that environment in 5 years than you will ever have for the rest of your life.
If you grew more they are likely tumours, you should have that checked
more people from this culture, huh? guess what, i'm asian, and well, most of the asians i meet are first gens adopted from korea, spread across america more than any other ethnicity. in fact, most of the asians you meet are going to be the same story, and guess what? we grew up with white families, in white neighborhoods, with the same dry jokes. every asian in america knows what these guys are going through, white people have no idea, they get bullied too, just for different reasons. not b/c they're white, at least not the majority, not even close. idiot
you remind me of an asian girl who told me she can't be racist because she is asian
look at your generalizations about white people: is that not a sterotype? sterotypes are racism little girl
I do not hear people trashing white people for the shape noises, lips, bum, hair, eyes and the list goes on. I am glad I don't hear this because it is ugly to say about anyone. I am not aware they signs have been made that say "No White People". I'm not interested in villanizing white people, however you should have a bit more respect for people unless you have walked in their shoes.
Your comment of what races should join the military more and based on your example is perhaps why they do not. Based on your assessment, the military is about degradation which supposedly makes one stronger. I suppose you have no empathy for soldiers with PTSD either.
You lack empathy and it will come full circle one of this days.
actually racism is a stereotype, not the other way around. and how can it be a generalization my mom, dad, sister, inlaws, nieces, nephews, grandparents, and cousins are all white. my 3 kids are half, my sister in law from my brother is also white, also, i grew up in a small town in iowa, which, was like 99 percent white. are these really generalizations, or personal observations? hmmm, now what is your relationship to anyone asian? maybe they are generalizations, but they are also my observations.
How do we know it is not the stress of overbearing parents and high expectations that isn't the major culprit here, bullying is universal, should be condemned and East Asians kids may be more targeted than other groups but I also know that East asian countries also have some of the highest suicide rates in the world. Maype it is culturally accepted way to deal with high stress however unfortunate it is. Blaming racism or targeted bullying might be a bit oversimplistic, I am black and I am neither driven to suicide nor am I inclined to wanton violence despite all the nonsense I have to deal with.
It is a good idea that you research the story further in depth. You may possibly change your mind after you do.
@Skyhawk, black men are spoken of quite poorly, however Asian men are treated poorly as well. When is the last time an Asian man won one of those Hollywood awards? When is the last time you law an Asian man on some big add campaign for Ralph Lauren or Michael Kors? There are attractive people in all races yet the media only presents certain types. When Asian men are represented it usually related to business or technology, which is fine but it does stereotype.
The way I have heard some people talk about Asian men is just as bad as what I've read on these boards about black men.
Consider this, black people know what to expect and are aware. We have been dealing with this for a long time. However, try dealing with it when you come from a country where there was one majority and you've been embedded in a culture that has insulated you. We only think about others what we know to be true of ourselves. Neither of these fellows thought this way or could possibly fathom why they wouldn't let up.
I'm a Asian and in my culture, we don't "accept" suicide as a way of dealing with pressure. And Asians in America lives more or less in the American culture. So, when there are clearly factors such as Asians kid being picked on more, it's really absurd to assume that suicide is a "cultural" thing.
And you know what, I read that the Chen family didn't accept the claim that their son committed suicide! Only a thorough investigation and report will reveal what really happened. And will those ever come. I have doubts.
http://worldstarhiphop.com/videos/video.php?v=wshhF2Xo2mpXl8eo3WXX
A video about Asian kid being bullied.
Many of those who don't speak English have been robbed and murdered for delivering Chinese food in New York City. There are even more unreported cases of robbery. They can't post here becuase they can't write in English. Will their stories ever be told? Do they count?
alot of chinese food deliverers get robbed beaten and killed my uncle was once a deliverer and he had to deliver in a project in the bronx and the thing is that when they deliver to the projects or any part of the ghetto their intentions is usually not for the food its cause they want to rob you they make the call so you can come and get robbed and beaten usually with racial slurs added my uncle have been doing this job for a while and they tried to rob him with a knife but my uncle is a badass he open the food up and threw it at them and ran like hell down 6 floors and called the cops and luckily that wasnt no tall project building some buildings get up to 20 floors and more they called their friends to try to cut off my uncle but thank god he got out just in time to call the cops if that building was any taller he would probably be dead
If I was Pvt. Danny Chen, I would shoot them first make sure they are all dead then I would go ahead and commit suicide.
Why commit suicide? That is for the weak.
am just saying if you thinking about killing yourself bec. you are being bullied then why not kill those bullies first.
AGREE!!! One caution: But don't shoot innocent people b/c we ourselves are not bullies!
so sad. i have many Asian friends and my kids do to and they are such genuine people, friends i can always count on, great influence on my kids
I can't stand it when people start listing races, and they say "Blacks, Asians, Mexicans". I've seen it several times on this page already. I think the term you are looking for is "Hispanic". They are more than just Mexicans.
seems like your ignorant as well cause both hispanic and mexican isnt a race
USA is a Christian country !!
True. But it's also a Muslin country, a Buddhist country, a Jewish Country, and yeah...a little racist. Wanna bet that all of the bullies involved would claim they are Christians? Obviously wouldn't understand what it means to be Christian.
Perhaps these Nazis ought go back to the Nazi colonies where they've been all this time in South America. Talk about illegals. There are a lot of them. Like a police desk seargent (who became a sheriff's deputy) in Hot Springs, AR.
The article gives a very familiar picture of reality. – Just like when i see blacks bullying africans when they try to join the basketball team or football team or anything "black."
Unfortunately, Asian Americans are always seen as perpetual foreigners in the U.S, that they are somehow less "American" than the whites, blacks and Hispanics here.
maybe if more joined the military they would be considered "more American"
We have the work ethic to become more than a little military man....why would I join the military when I could become a doctor or engineer and enjoy the freedoms that you are fighting for?
Funny how many of these white men will bully Asian men, yet lust after Asian women.
I'm white happily married to a beautiful Korean lady for 26 years. I have never bullied an Asian though have been bullied by Asians when with my wife on the streets of Seoul. It's not just whites that bully, my son received bullying from blacks as well as whites. He learned to deal with it as did my daughter. Suicide is the cowards way out. The ignorant will always resort to bullying.
BEFORE YOU COMMIT SUICIDE, SHOOT AND KILL ALL OF THOSE WHITE BULLIES LIKE DOGS!!!
I ENCOURAGE ALL OF THOSE BULLIED ASIAN AMERICANS TO BRING GUN AT SCHOOLS AND IF YOU CAN'T TAKE IT NO MORE JUST SHOOT ALL OF THOSE BULLIES AT ONCE!
"The best revenge is living well"-Frank Sinatra
Even better is to meet that bully as he applies for a job at your office.
I encourage you to put a gun to your own head instead of spouting idiotic crap.
Agree!!
Kevin Wu, I refuse to accept bullies and racists as stupid, I do believe that the best way to retaliate is to either tell them to stop doing it, or if that doesn't work, punch them in the face, no one should take it from ANYONE regardless of race, etc.
So if you ask a bully or a racist nicely to stop, they might stop. And if they don't, resort to violence?
Yeah, there should be absolutely no repercussions from taking that path right?
When it really comes down to it, all the feel good "don't bully me" talk NEVER works. If you want someone who understands fear, pain, and intimidation to pay attention to you, making them feel those emotions seems to be the most effective method. Repercussions be damned. if you have to suffer in one way or suffer in another make your choice.
My son whose mother is of Korean decent learned to ignore the bullies unless they crossed the line into violence then he retaliated usually with the result of never being bullied by that person again. Most usually ignoring the bully eventually worked as well.
Hollywood is about money. Did you think they were about positive social change? Hahaha. If they did contribute,
they were on a slow boat from .... er, Catalina Island.
Nobody mentioned Vincent Chen, and Asian who stood up for himself, was bludgeoned to death and his killers
did not serve time. This was the gelling of "Hate Crime Laws" along with Mathew Shepard.
Frankly, all the juvenile mentality of bullies doesn't go away after high school. But, the joke is the tough guys
will get left behind as brains network and live a better life. Tata.
Wow, propaganda much? What is it like for whites to go to school in China?
Well uh, we're not in China and you specifically saying "China" in trying to allude to Asia has racist undertones.
We're not in China.
I am white and went to college in China. The Chinese people were always so welcoming and willing to help. They were eager to learn about my heritage as they taught me about their own.
Lets be clear. Thats because you are white. White skin in china is something they would die for
EAST Asians Know how to respect than Americans !!
Segregation and conflict is ingrained in human culture but american media and politicians live to create hate. Prime example, european whites dislike american whites. Americans hated the russians. Then the arabs now its the asians. Jst take alook at your media and hollywood villain portrayal. But history does repeat,american empire is slowly representing a dictatorship with all the anti terrorism laws. More than a little bit of nazi germany. Land of the free, my *ss
A loons reply.
I wonder if America were to currently go to war against a white race like some countries in Europe, would white Americans be racists against whites, especially the white people? Or if America went to war against Mexico would the hispanics Americans be racist against the Mexicans, war against Africa would African Americans be racist agains black Africans, war against Asia would Asian Americans be racist against Asians, and etc etc. When America goes to war with all of these other countries America usually wins the war, right. Well don't you see? All types of racists unite as one is the most powerful country. We need to understand that America is all one race, the human race!
when was the last time US won a war? Vietnam lost, Iraq lost, Afghanistan losing....
last i checked, germany was a "white" country. and did we forget about the cold war? im pretty sure any eastern european could be considered white, can we say kosovo?
Include in it what we have read here, about Hollywood still being unfair to Asian-Americans, despite the demographics, and yes, include in it Asians being racist to foreigners as well. Make it fair and subjective, racism goes both ways, we cry foul yet those in Asia treat foreigners just as bad. Maybe something will come out of it, maybe it won't.
Just because Asians in other countries supposedly treat foreigners badly, doesn't make bullying them right. The Asian kids being bullied in the US never bullied anyone, so why do they have to get punished for what others do? It's like blaming a modern day European for slavery. A person should be punished for their own sin, not someone elses .. that's clear and even written in the Bible.