Short Wave 'Where We Come From': Emily Kwong's Story
Jun 20, 2021
Explore the emotional journey of a third-generation Chinese American reclaiming her lost heritage language. Through heartwarming conversations with her father, she confronts cultural disconnection and the complexities of identity. Discover the influence of her grandmother's migration story and the pivotal role of language in bridging generational gaps. As she embarks on learning Mandarin, the narrative unveils the power of names and stories in fostering connection and understanding within immigrant families.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Childhood Encounter
- Emily Kwong recalls being told she wasn't "Chinese enough" by a child.
- This stemmed from Emily's inability to speak Mandarin, highlighting the cultural weight of language.
Reclaiming Heritage
- Emily Kwong's family stopped speaking Mandarin by the third generation.
- This motivated her to begin learning the language, using apps and weekly classes.
Comfort in Chinatown
- Christopher Kwong, Emily's father, grew up hearing Mandarin in NYC's Chinatown.
- It offered comfort amidst a world where he felt anxious due to not understanding English.