The Search for Belonging: The AAPI Multiracial Experience

Moderator Anna Crosslin, from left, and panelists Judge Judy Draper, Justin Klos and Lauren Gentry

By Elsa Fan

On Thursday Nov. 7, Webster University and the St. Louis Japanese American Citizens League (STL JACL) hosted a panel titled "Exploring Asian Identity, Belonging, and Community: The Multiracial Experience."

This discussion was moderated by Anna Crosslin, former President and CEO of the International Institute of St. Louis, who was born to a Japanese mother and American father. Crosslin led the discussion with panelists Judge Judy Draper (Korean and African American), Justin Klos (Filipino and white) and Lauren Gentry (Taiwanese and white).

The conversation explored the complex dynamics of navigating multiple racial and ethnic spaces and the search for belonging. Panelists shared how in some spaces, they felt “not Asian enough” while in others, “too Asian” in ways that highlighted their difference. For some, the “privilege” of passing as white meant they were spared the discrimination that often faced their AAPI peers and family members, a factor that became especially pronounced during the anti-Asian hate crimes during the pandemic. As some attendees commented, the evening offered a powerful space for AAPI (Asian American and Pacific Islander) to feel seen and heard.

This event marks the final session in a two-part series funded by a Missouri Humanities grant awarded to Elsa Fan, Associate Professor of Anthropology and Noriko Yuasa, Professor of Graphic Design. The panels focused on themes of identity, belonging and community among Asian American and Pacific Islanders in St. Louis. They delved into conversations about who we are when we don’t fit into neatly defined categories, an experience that can feel isolating. And yet, these discussions highlighted how we seek connection with others who share similar identities, histories and cultures. Panels were preceded by a community resource fair in which groups related to Asian American culture were able to highlight their programs and services.

Additional support was provided by the Speaker’s Committee, St. Louis Japanese American Citizens League and the Department of Global Languages, Cultures and Societies.

Guests attend the community resource fair featuring local AAPI organizations.