What does it mean to be Asian American? Drawing on numerous disciplines, this Asian American Studies course surveys major periods, subject areas, themes, concepts, and theories that reveal complex and multifaceted approaches to answering this question. This course includes an examination of key events and ideas that illuminate the racialization of Asian Americans, as well as how Asian Americans exercised their agency in response to dominant ideas. This course also explores the intersection of race with other systems of power as both a force of multiple marginalization and a site of solidarity. Topics include contemporary issues in Asian America, like Stop Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Hate and COVID-19; the formation and proliferation of ethnic enclaves and ethnoburbs like Cerritos, Artesia, Westminster, Garden Grove, and the San Gabriel Valley; the affirmative action debate; intersectional experiences along the lines of gender and sexuality; representation in Hollywood and other media; and activism. The course involves engagement with local, historic community organizations and heritage centers. This course prepares students for additional, more specialized coursework in the discipline of Asian American Studies. Transfer: CSU

Know history, know self; no history, no self. This Asian American Studies course surveys the historical factors that illuminate the making and continual remaking of Asian America. From pre-1882 to contemporary times, this course includes an investigation of top-down influences like the American Dream, migration legislation, and changing perceptions of Asian immigrants, as well as bottom-up experiences of Asian immigrants and their kin. Ultimately, this course aims to emphasize that everyday people – immigrants and students included – are makers of history. The course involves engagement with local, historic community organizations and heritage centers. This course prepares students for additional, more specialized coursework in the discipline of Asian American Studies.