A four day Symposium for Awareness of South Asian Issues opened on the University of Pennsylvania campus with an intense audience discussion on everything from identity to class issues.
The Daily Pennsylvanian reports the debate was sparked by a simple question from the associate director of Asian American Studies Program Fariha Khan. Is a food truck owner and investment banker part of the same community if they are South Asian?
Some felt that the bond felt between members of the same culture and language is a strong one, but others felt that push cart drivers will always feel a strong connection to each other regardless of race.
Others brought up the shame some immigrants feel when they ask for government assistance.
“To ask for help is like admitting you couldn’t do it on your own,” said Vinita Saggurti, a sophomore and incoming officer with the South Asia Society.
Organizers say getting students to open up is ultimately the goal of the conference.
You can read more in The Daily Pennsylvanian
