Model Minority
‘Refers to a minority ethnic, racial, or religious group whose members achieve a higher degree of success than the population average. This success is typically measured in income, education, and related factors such as low crime rate and high family stability.’
Personal accounts
“ A little story... I used to live in a predominantly white neighbourhood and frequently went to badminton clubs and sports clubs. The coach there is a white middle-aged woman who played badminton in lots of different countries and won medals etc. Whenever I would tell her what I plan on doing, the coach would comment on how my family was a good one and my parents have given us a good upbringing. In other words, we were a model for what every minority to strive for. Which is quite discriminatory. ”
“I have often been told that I’m not like the other people from my community or country because of my upbringing. I don’t know who the comment is meant to serve- a “compliment” to me that I turned out different despite the odds or a snub at my fellow countrymen who weren’t viewed in the same light. It is definitely an uncomfortable statement and I try to politely explain how we are unfairly setting the bar for what is deemed a success in society- independent of individual and cultural context.”
“Often told I was one of the ‘good ones’ and my English is so good (lives here my whole life). Usually meant I was poster girl for all things ethnic. Model minority. Often told I was one of the ‘good ones’ and my English is so good (lives here my whole life). Usually meant I was poster girl for all things ethnic. ”
