Asian American Politics

This course will survey the different facets of political life in Asian American communities, focusing on three major themes. First, we will examine the origins and evolutions of “Asian America” as an identity group and political project. Second, we will explore the varied ways Asian Americans have engaged in politics, from electoral politics to community organizing. We will consider topics including but not limited to electoral representation, gentrification and displacement, anti-Asian violence, racial profiling and surveillance, and immigrant detention and deportation. Third, we will consider the politics of interminority relations: how Asian Americans engage with other communities of color, through issues such as policing, affirmative action, and multi-racial solidarity. Throughout the course, we will engage with guest speakers from community organizations in New York City, considering the relationship between the classroom and politics on the ground.