Asian American Coalition aims for inclusion
Elspeth Lodge '10
Issue date: 2/25/09 Section: Features
|
"We'd like to create a more inclusive Asian identity," says Suriyamonkol. Park agrees; "we try to get people who have an interest in Asian cultures, anyone can join."
AAC welcomes anyone who has an affinity for Asian culture. "We try to make it fun for people to learn," says Park. Participation ranges from week to week, and some even just go to the events that have food, such as the ramen and tea event and the sushi/kimbap making workshop. "Food definitely gets people to come," confides Park. AAC has about 30 members, ten of which are consistent participants.
It's not just the programs that the students come for: "it's also a good support group, people have made some close friends," says Park. Suriyamonkol says, "We do a lot of programs and that's a big part of the club, but we try to create a support network as well. You can come if you've had a bad day."
The AAC Constitution asserts this idea: "AAC endeavors to build unity within the group as a way to develop a safe community where leadership can be nurtured and where personal issues regarding cultural identity can be addressed between members in a friendly, comfortable environment."
The group also tries to foster a relationship with the professors on campus, as stated in their constitution: "We wish to build a strong, active group that will engage in the collaboration and participation of events hosted by our organization to build a bridge amongst all Wheaton students, as well as the Wheaton faculty."
AAC is an active organization. They have hosted many events already this year, and plan to organize many more. AAC runs Community Day, involving not only Wheaton, but extending their knowledge and celebration of Asian American culture outside the bubble. For the first time this year they hosted a three-day Lunar New Year Celebration, which they hope will turn into an annual affair.
The group also attends the Boston Asian Students Intercollegiate Conference (BASIC). "We try to involve ourselves with other schools in the Boston area," says Park. They try to spread their influence beyond the Wheaton campus and often attend programs hosted by other schools in the area.
The members have a goal in mind, as their constitution asserts: "We hope to strengthen the Asian program at Wheaton also by connecting with other local college students.
For those who want to get creative, or just have a little fun, one can attend Ikebana flower arranging classes, Boston Chinatown tours during the fall and spring, leadership dinners, and Dim Sum trips to Boston.
Be the first to comment on this story