Asian Student Union Forms to Bring Attention and Understanding to Cultural Differences

In celebration of National Asian Heritage Month, members of the newly formed Asian Student Union will introduce themselves at tomorrow’s Upper School Assembly and bring awareness of their mission.

“By establishing this Union, we hope to talk more about the real-life experiences Asian people in the country face every day,” said senior Xuzhu “Ruth” Wang, who serves as co-president with Nathanial Thomas.

With about 20 members, the ASU established itself this year by creating a mission statement and undertaking some other preliminary measures. And while the assembly is the first event the group has been able to pull off this year, members are excited to host a number of activities and programs next year.

“This is our way of really announcing the formation of an ASU to the school. This is the end of the year, so we can’t plan as many events as we’d like to. We hope next year’s rising seniors will be able to host some of the meaningful activities that we don’t have the time to do this year,” said Ruth.

According to advisor Margaret Wei, who will be assisted by Kristin Lynch in the Admissions Office, the timing of the formation of the ASU is relevant.

“Asian students count for an indispensable part of the Hamden Hall student body. The Asian Student Union echoes the diversity effort implemented across our community. I believe this is the right time to start ASU to promote mutual understanding about cultural differences and address important racial issues in this country,” said Mrs. Wei.

The ASU will show two videos during the assembly that foster the Union’s mission statement, as follows:

“The Hamden Hall Asian Students Union strives to foster inclusivity, equity, and anti-racism in the Hamden Hall Community and beyond. We recognize the immense diversity of Asia and Asian people, and we are inclusive to Asians of all backgrounds.”