Celebrating AAPI Heritage Month: Honoring Diversity and Empowering Students through Amy Tan's short personal essay “Fish Cheeks”

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the need to honor the diverse cultures and histories that shape our world. One important aspect of this recognition is celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month. Throughout May, AAPI Heritage Month provides a valuable opportunity for educators to foster inclusivity and broaden students' understanding of the rich and varied experiences of AAPI communities.

Embracing Diversity:

AAPI Heritage Month offers an occasion to celebrate the diverse cultures, traditions, and contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. By incorporating AAPI voices into the classroom, teachers can help students develop a broader understanding of the world and promote a sense of belonging among AAPI students. This celebration cultivates an inclusive environment that values the experiences and perspectives of all students.

Challenging Stereotypes:

Unfortunately, stereotypes about AAPI communities still persist in society. By teaching about AAPI heritage, educators can debunk misconceptions and combat bias. Integrating AAPI literature and history into the curriculum helps students recognize the rich tapestry of experiences within these communities, breaking down stereotypes and promoting empathy and understanding.

Amplifying AAPI Voices through Amy Tan's Literature:

Amy Tan, a renowned Chinese American author, has made a significant impact in the literary world. Her novels, such as The Joy Luck Club, The Kitchen God's Wife, and  The Bonesetter's Daughter, as well as her short personal essay, “Fish Cheeks” explore the complexities of Chinese immigrant experiences and the intergenerational conflicts that shape Asian American families. Incorporating Tan's works into ELA classes not only exposes students to well-crafted narratives but also encourages discussions on identity, cultural heritage, and the immigrant experience.

Building Empathy and Cultural Competence:

Reading and analyzing Tan's short personal essay, “Fish Cheeks” provides a window into the experiences, struggles, and triumphs of Asian American individuals and communities. Through her rich storytelling, Tan humanizes the Asian American experience, inviting readers to develop empathy and cultural competence. By integrating Tan's works into ELA classes, teachers can foster conversations about identity, immigration, assimilation, and the complexities of family dynamics, ultimately nurturing a more compassionate and globally aware generation.

Promoting Critical Thinking and Analysis:

Amy Tan's literary works offer a wealth of material for critical thinking and literary analysis. Students can explore themes such as the role of cultural heritage in shaping personal identity, the complexities of mother-daughter relationships, and the impact of generational and cultural gaps. By engaging with Tan's short memoir “Fish Cheeks,” students develop their critical thinking, analytical skills, and literary interpretation abilities, fostering a deeper appreciation for literature as a tool for exploring diverse experiences.

Bottom Line: 

Honoring AAPI Heritage Month in the classroom provides an essential opportunity to celebrate diversity, challenge stereotypes, and promote cultural understanding. By incorporating Amy Tan's works into the ELA curriculum, teachers can empower students to explore the multifaceted experiences of Asian American individuals and communities, fostering empathy, critical thinking, and cultural competence. Let us embrace the richness of AAPI heritage, recognize the contributions of AAPI communities, and inspire a generation of inclusive and globally aware learners.