Week 10_Melody Yan_ASA 150E

This was my first ASA course, and I’m really glad I took it because it introduced me to a part of history that I would have never known. As we have discussed before in class, U.S. History rarely speaks about the Vietnam War, and when they do, it’s a very one-sided, narrow perspective. It’s ridiculous how fixated the U.S. is on the Vietnam War, especially because Vietnam had been fighting for their freedom for much longer. I honestly didn’t know much about the Indochinese Wars, and even though I knew China and France had colonized Vietnam, I didn’t understand to what extent. This class has honestly made me more aware of Southeast Asian issues and the history and political turmoil that has resulted from colonization. I realize how there is a lot of racism even in the Asian/Asian-American community, and how East Asian privilege can exist in some cases. I appreciate Professor Valverde’s transparency with everything we have discussed in class, and honestly much of the lectures and readings have completely shattered what I knew about history and politics.

The class was truly amazing and insightful, and I hope to take more courses like these! My question is, how can we provide more opportunities for people to learn about SEA communities and their histories?

Also, Professor Valverde if you’re reading this, Chloe and I love your outfits and look forward to them every class! Seriously need to take that fashion class now.