My sketch of the world.

We normally do not see maps with the Pacific Ocean as the center where Asia and the Americas are on either side, but this is my world. We may have different skin colors, speak different languages, and come from different parts of the world living on this planet. But one thing is the same; we are all human beings. Why must we see each other differently?

We live in America, a country famous for being a melting pot since its birth. Asians, Europeans, Africans, and other nationalities have come to look for better opportunities and have a better life. The promise of America: a land to seek refuge and everyone has equal access to the “American Dream.” We coexist and learn to share our cultures. We live in the same communities, go to the same schools, and hang out in the same coffee shops. Why are we always an outsider?

Today, there are about twenty-three million Asian Americans and we are the fastest growing ethnic group in the US. If we remain invisible, perhaps it is time to re-educate to bring about awareness and incorporate the facts about Asian Americans within American history.

- A Bay Area native looking for a belonging