As we reported last week, Renton Lindbergh High School’s Japanese classes were rescued from the chopping block.
On this Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, it’s appropriate to draw attention to the threats that could wipe out this very popular program. It’s a threat—though it no longer exists in the program—that it is part of a long-term phasing out of the Japanese-language program in Washington, and will deprive future generations of Japanese-Americans from exploring their heritage.
Aleyna Yamaguchi, a former student of the above-mentioned Japanese language program, wrote in a petition that cutting the program means “we cannot prepare students for today’s evolving globalized economy.”
Yamaguchi writes that at a time when our political and racial landscape is so divided, the right thing to do is to continue to educate our students and expose them to other cultures, not to deny them opportunities.
The class is taught by Hiromi Weir, affectionately known by students as “Teacher Hiromi,” who delayed her retirement to save the program.
It is important to thank Yamaguchi for starting the petition and bringing attention to the matter. She also persuaded her former teacher to go public and reach out to organizations that regularly provide Japanese language program support to the school district, such as the Washington State Japan-American Association, the Japanese Consulate, and the Washington Association of Japanese Language Teachers.
In addition, Yamaguchi contacted the American media.
As Asians, we are taught not to fuss or waver. This is potentially harmful behavior. When you witness something you intuitively know is wrong or harmful, you have to say it out loud. Say it out loud and fight for what you think is right, even if it’s hard.
Failure to express your concerns or opinions will have consequences.
Would the project have survived without petitions or media attention? We will never know. But it’s not unfathomable that it would be quietly phased out without a public outcry.
This AAPI Heritage Month, remember that your voice matters. speak out. you are not alone.
The community will support you. We, at Asia Weekly, will amplify your voice. Be proud of who you are and what you stand for.
