Explore the model minority stereotype, and discover how it became a label for Asian Americans and is used to enforce racial hierarchies.



In 2007, researchers surveyed 180 teachers to understand if they held stereotypes about their students. The most commonly held opinion was that Asian students were significantly more industrious, intelligent, and gentle. This might seem like a good thing, but treating this stereotype as reality can cause a surprising amount of harm. Sheila Marie Orfano and Densho dig into the model minority myth.

Lesson by Sheila Marie Orfano and Densho, directed by Léon MohCah.

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View full lesson: https://ed.ted.com/lessons/canstereo...
Dig deeper with additional resources: https://ed.ted.com/lessons/canstereo...

Animator's website: https://leonmohcah.com
Educator's website: https://densho.org


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