KQED's Forum Forum from the Archives: The New Yorker’s Michael Luo on ‘the Epic Story of the Chinese in America'
May 26, 2025
Michael Luo, the executive editor at The New Yorker and author of "Strangers in the Land," shares insights into the enduring struggles of Chinese Americans amid historical exclusion. He discusses the emotional complexities of belonging and identity shaped by personal and broader societal challenges. Luo explores the history of racism, from the Chinese Exclusion Act to contemporary issues, and highlights remarkable stories of resilience, like the Tape family's fight for equality, advocating for a narrative that honors diverse experiences in America's rich tapestry.
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California's Pivotal Chinese History
- California and San Francisco are central to Chinese American history, from the gold rush to exclusion laws.
- The Chinese population once comprised around 10% of California, with significant early racial violence documented.
Historical Rhetoric Mirrors Today
- Anti-Chinese rhetoric in the 19th century mirrors contemporary language blaming them for social and economic problems.
- Economic insecurity tends to fuel violent anti-Asian movements historically and presently.
Birthright Citizenship's Chinese Case
- The 1898 Supreme Court case on birthright citizenship involved a Chinese American and addressed fears of Chinese political power.
- This case underpins ongoing debates about citizenship and immigration rights.
