From Dust to Gold: The Vietnamese Amerasian Experience by Kieu Linh Valverde
Racial discrimination has been a major challenge for minority communities. These communities have identity issues and lack equal opportunities to achieve their life goals. However, the Amerasians who survived as fatherless children in Vietnam suffered worse hardships and, to some degree, the government was to blame. The Vietnamese government failed to recognize the Amerasians as rightful citizens. Customarily, government officials, including the legislators, should lead the country in upholding equality, since all humans deserve fair treatment regardless of their ethnic backgrounds. The American government showed a high level of accountability by resettling the Amerasians consistent with the Homecoming Act.
Government has the responsibility to implement appropriate policies for promoting equality across ethnic and racial backgrounds. The Amerasians suffered because the Vietnamese government did not acknowledge its obligation of safeguarding their dignity – the residents perceived them as worthless half-breeds. Often, residents perpetrate unjustifiable acts when government leaders fail to recognize immigrants’ rights. Racial equality is only attainable if government officials lead by example to acknowledge minorities’ rights at the leadership level, and inspire citizens to treat the marginalized groups with respect. For example, the American government promoted a sense of belonging among the Amerasians by resettling them. Leaders also need to consider the interests of other minority communities, such as the Blacks, and understand that they encounter similar challenges as the Amerasians.
Amerasians’ experiences reveal that racial discrimination is a painful experience. The American government did Amerasians justice by recognizing them. In addition to resettling veterans’ children, equality policies are needed so that all Americans have a chance at improving their living standards.
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