Expanding Perceptions

As I read through this weeks article by Sandra S. Yamate I was again brought back to the reoccurring theme in our classroom; insider vs. outsider. Within the article I found my attention begin to focus when she mentioned writers who are more “familiar” with the Asian Pacific American Community. This led to me to question both myself and the author asking, does familiar mean the person does not have to be an insider in terms of ethnicity? As I continued my reading, Yamate began to discuss the opportunities that are taken away from not just the minority groups but also the majority. “Children of all races and ethnic origins are being offered a disturbingly artificial view of the world in which they live, one that does not begin to reflect the diversity of the society in which they will be expected to live, work, play, and grow.” This quote, taken from the article I feel is very powerful. It helps to speak for other groups of individuals who suffer due to the inaccurate representation of certain minority groups. Not only are unjust and unfair stereotypes placed upon minority groups, but youth of all races and groups minority and majority are expected to believe in these mistakes creating further misconceptions. Yamate goes on to say, “Children are our hope for the future, yet they are handicapped when their books and educational materials persist in proffering a grossly distorted view of the diverse races and ethnic groups that comprise the United States.” As I continue to take a step back and evaluate children literature I will continue to keep this in mind when deciding what books I believe are sufficient for my students as the future of our country.