1.
rubber ducks have become symbols of pro-democracy protests across the world.
Pro-democracy activists in Thailand originally brought giant rubber ducks as a joke. However, when Thai police began to use force, the rubber duck inflatables became useful shields.
Since then, they have become symbols of democracy around the world, utilized by the #milkteaalliance in Hong Kong and banned by the Chinese government for becoming too popular on social media. LEARN MORE
As Asian American populations rise, representation is essential. Democracies are built on this, and understanding the Asian American story is important for getting Asian Americans elected to positions of responsibility by humanizing them and breaking stereotypes that act as barriers to progress.
Since then, they have become symbols of democracy around the world, utilized by the #milkteaalliance in Hong Kong and banned by the Chinese government for becoming too popular on social media. LEARN MORE
As Asian American populations rise, representation is essential. Democracies are built on this, and understanding the Asian American story is important for getting Asian Americans elected to positions of responsibility by humanizing them and breaking stereotypes that act as barriers to progress.
2.
rubber ducks signify Asian resilience and are metaphors for the Asian American experience.
Rubber ducks' yellow color and association with bathing (and dirt) allude to Yellow Peril, a phrase and movement used to marginalize and stereotype Asian Americans as evil, cunning, dirty, and cowardly. Now, Asian Americans are reclaiming the term, a way in which yellow demonstrates Asian American activism, ironically contrasting the stereotype of conformity. You can learn more about Yellow Peril HERE.
Rubber ducks, though they may look like anything (see above), are always extremely resilient, like the will of the Asian American people. They also complain rightfully when stepped on.
Finally, many stereotype ducks as one thing: competent entertainers of children. This is similar to how Asian Americans are often relegated to a second-class status as the Model Minority that is competent in low-level positions, but not suitable for management.
However, when given the chance to be more, Asian Americans (and rubber ducks) step up to the challenge and can be symbols of change to the world.
Rubber ducks, though they may look like anything (see above), are always extremely resilient, like the will of the Asian American people. They also complain rightfully when stepped on.
Finally, many stereotype ducks as one thing: competent entertainers of children. This is similar to how Asian Americans are often relegated to a second-class status as the Model Minority that is competent in low-level positions, but not suitable for management.
However, when given the chance to be more, Asian Americans (and rubber ducks) step up to the challenge and can be symbols of change to the world.
Learn more about Asian American history:
