THE INVISIBLE COMMUNITY
Most Asians in black communities are primarily from South Korea, the Philippines, Japan, and Vietnam. Many due to the effects of the U.S. military in these countries after World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.
Asian Americans operate small businesses—such as corner stores or laundromats.
The invisible, visible merchant class. See: Why do other races own businesses in FBA neighborhoods today?
The more docile POC class. The class whites trust not to make a fuss.
You see one or two Asians in old photos during the Civil rights movement. Separate individuals marching. But not their community as a whole.
Asians work in a black neighborhoods but their children are not seen in black neighborhood schools. Asians are absent during neighborhood functions. Like block parties, parades and get togethers.
Asian babies are not enrolled in the neighborhood daycare center.
You see their community on the streets when something happens to one of their own. i.e. the Officer Peter Liang, Akai Gurley killing & Stop Asian Hate.
For this incident, the Asian community came out as a whole. And participated in a rare demonstration of numerical support for officer Liang. Holding up homemade signs, chanting slogans, and conducting sit-ins outside the court house where the officers trial was held.
After the trial and sentencing was over, they disappeared back to their businesses and communities.
Making appearances only when attempts are made to destroy their storefront during riots or protests. Due to an injustice that had been made against one of their patrons. A protest in which they as a community do not participate in. And is limited to a few Asians here and there.
Outside of their shops, there is no social interactions with the black residents they serve.
The Asian community appears for their businesses and for one of their own. Then disappear.
#RickChow #CyrusCarmackBelton