Wednesday, April 1, 1998

Asian-American Awareness Month begins

By KHYBER OSER
Collegian Staff Writer

Now in its second year, Asian American Awareness Month at the University has become an extravaganza.

Highlighted by the seventh annual "Asian Awakenings" and the Mr./Ms. Asian Penn State Fashion Show, events are planned for almost every day this month in celebration of Asian and Asian-American culture.

Sponsored by the Asian American Student Coalition (AASC), the month aims to unite the Asian-American community and raise public awareness of issues faced by Asian Americans.

"I think it's really important to educate people and celebrate our heritage," said AASC member Vanessa Capacio (sophomore-biology). "The spotlight is on us this month. It's a chance for us to be heard."

Collegian Graphic of Asian-American Month Events (Collegian Graphic/Sean Brandt - click for full size image)

Asian Americans represent the largest minority group at the University, but it is a diverse group, said Cindy del Rosario, president of AASC. The theme of the month, "Many Voices, One Song," reflects the need for unity among the Asian-American community, she said.

"We come from many different places, but this is a month that brings us together," said del Rosario (junior-journalism). "Last year was really successful. I think it took a lot of people by surprise."

Planning for the month began in October, del Rosario said. Trying to improve upon the success of last year, AASC attempted to branch out and utilize more of the University's resources. Groups co-sponsoring events this month include the Lambda Student Alliance (Lesbian, Gay and Bisexual Student Alliance), Penn State Unity Days and Penn State Young Americans for Freedom.

Events include workshops, panel discussions, debates, plays and dances, but the biggest program of the month is "Asian Awakenings," which will be held at 8 p.m. April 17 in Rec Hall.

"Asian Awakenings" is a variety show celebrating Asian and Asian-American culture. The event drew about 800 spectators last year, del Rosario said.

The first program of the month is a discussion about Asian-American stereotypes at 7 p.m. today in the Pollock Piano Lounge. It will be led by Terrell Jones, associate vice provost for educational equity, and Sam Richards, lecturer of sociology.

Other events this week include Korean Cultural Night at 7 p.m. Saturday in the Paul Robeson Cultural Center and a play titled Hopes & An Orange Duck, which will be performed by the Asian American Acting Group at 7:30 p.m. Saturday in 119 Arts.