Because we are no difference. Many say Asian Americans are perfect, model citizens. Well, we may be near perfect but we are not perfect. Being only near perfect, we are just as easily affected by misconceptions, personal prejudice and stereotypes. We fall victims of our own because we are only humans.
Self esteem is for individuals.
The process from the victim mentality to building our collective esteem is similar to the healing process any victim must go through. As we are discriminated, we feel hurt. We are often frustrated and become angry. It is often when we are angry that we begin to fight back. That is the beginning of building our esteem.