# HDIFC event challenges stereotypes and cultivates understanding

/ Published May 24, 2023
BATTLE CREEK, Mich, 
*Where are you from? No, where are you **really** from?*

*Do you eat cat or dog?*

*I bet you’re good at math, huh?*

*You must know martial arts, right?*

*How did you get here?*

*Do you use chopsticks for everything?*

When reading these questions, they may seem clueless but also mostly harmless on their own. However, when someone regularly receives them from both strangers and those in their everyday life, the questions develop an unspoken meaning: that you are seen as being different. 

These questions were a central focus point for an open conversation held at the Hart-Dole-Inouye Federal Center May 22 as part of the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month special emphasis program. 

AANHPI Month is an annual celebration of the rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and contributions of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders in the United States. 

                Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month                            Facilitators DLA Disposition Services Public Affairs Specialist Kelly Burell and PaCER Corey Harter led the discussion during the Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month special emphasis program at the HDIFC May 22.            SHARE IMAGE:Download ImageImage DetailsPhoto By: Peter GentryVIRIN: 230522-D-OD896-100The captivating lunch and learn event was organized by the local Defense Logistics Agency Equal Employment Opportunity Office and facilitated by Kelly Burell, a DLA public affairs specialist, and Corey Harter, a Pathways to Career Excellence intern with DLA Disposition Services. 

The event kicked off with a thought-provoking video titled "Where are you from?" that aimed to foster awareness, promote dialogue, and encourage cultural understanding among participants. 

Through personal anecdotes and experiences, organizers highlighted the importance of mindful language and understanding when addressing questions about one's origin. 

Burell emphasized the significance in how people ask about others’ backgrounds, saying, "Even though we don't mean harm in the words we say, the way we say them matters."

One of the notable aspects of the event by the attendees was the extensive audience participation. Participants shared unique stories and cultural experiences, offered valuable insights into their heritage and shedded light on the challenges they face. The diversity of voices contributed to a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere, creating an environment where individuals felt comfortable expressing themselves and engaging in meaningful discussions.

To further immerse participants in Asian cultures, the facilitators thoughtfully provided a variety of snack foods customary to different Asian regions. 

Burell encouraged everyone to step outside their comfort zones and try new things, particularly when it came to exploring unfamiliar cuisines. She emphasized that trying different foods is not about nutrition but about experiencing the cultural context and gaining a deeper understanding of diverse communities.

Some attendees brought their children, who not only stated they appreciated the presentation, but also enjoyed sampling Asian treats that were not part of their own Asian cultural backgrounds. The children shared how their school lunches became a means for their peers and friends to learn more about their heritage through food. This emphasized the significance of cultural exchange and education to help bridge understanding and foster connections.

Throughout the presentation, the audience and facilitators engaged in a series of thought-provoking conversations. One key topic addressed was the question of how to ask about someone's cultural background in a more meaningful and respectful manner. Suggestions included asking about ethnic identification, heritage, or nationality, acknowledging that these aspects and definitions can vary for individuals. 

The group recognized that many Americans are curious about their own ancestral origins, as evidenced by the popularity of DNA testing, and often are looking for a common thread when asking questions. However, it was emphasized that words and phrasing matter, and it is crucial to approach these conversations with sensitivity and a genuine desire to learn and connect.

Harter, who identifies as both Japanese and American, shared his personal experience of being viewed differently in Japan and America based on his heritage. He highlighted the importance of recognizing our shared humanity and the unity that underlies our differences.

"We're really similar,” Harter said, urging everyone to foster open-mindedness and unity. “We're all one race. It's us that divides us."

The event also provided an overview of the vast diversity within the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities and included a list of various Asian ethnicities and regions, showcasing the broad range of cultures encompassed within the term "Asian." It was a reminder that the Asian identity extends far beyond stereotypes associated with certain countries, such as Japan or Korea, and includes a multitude of cultures from Lebanon, Vietnam, India, Turkey, and many others. 

                Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month                            Participants were reminded about the broad range of cultures encompassed within the Asian communities. During the topic “What is an Asian?,” the slide was provided highlighting the vast diversity.            SHARE IMAGE:Download ImageImage DetailsPhoto By: Kelly BurellVIRIN: 230522-D-D0441-100

The discussion also touched on the positive stereotypes often associated with Asian cultures, such as academic excellence and proficiency in fields like mathematics, science, music, and martial arts. While these stereotypes may seem complimentary on the surface, they can also create immense pressure and expectations that individuals may feel obligated to fulfill. The importance of getting to know a person beyond these stereotypes was emphasized, encouraging attendees to engage in genuine conversations and embrace the diversity within the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities.

                Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month                            Participants engage in a discussion during the Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month special emphasis program at the HDIFC May 22. The program fostered cultural understanding and celebrated the contributions of Asian communities.            SHARE IMAGE:Download ImageImage DetailsPhoto By: Peter GentryVIRIN: 230522-D-OD896-200Burell highlighted the necessity of sometimes having uncomfortable conversations as a means to educate others, collectively grow and foster understanding. 

It was acknowledged that addressing sensitive topics and confronting biases is essential to building a more inclusive society. The event served as a platform to initiate these conversations and encourage ongoing dialogue within the workplace and beyond.

In his closing remarks, DLA Disposition Services Deputy Director Army Col. Andre Toussaint emphasized the significance of finding common ground and celebrating our similarities rather than focusing on our differences. He used the metaphor of “building ships” to illustrate the importance of partnerships, relationships, and friendships in fostering unity and inclusivity.

"If you're not building a ‘ship,’ you're building walls," he declared, reminding everyone of the shared responsibility to create an environment where diversity is celebrated and valued.