Many Asian-Americans feel excluded from ‘true’ US identity, survey finds
Half of all Americans say birthplace matters, but just 23% of Asian-Americans agree.
A recent survey released on Friday found a stark divide in how different groups define “true” American identity. Nationwide, half of all Americans said being born in the U.S. is a key component, with sizable minorities also citing being white or Christian. However, among Asian-Americans, only 23% agreed that birthplace is essential—highlighting a deep sense of exclusion despite legal citizenship.
The report features the story of Matt King, a 34-year-old graphic designer in New York, who is the son of a Canadian-Chinese mother and white father. Born in the U.S. and raised in Los Angeles, he still encounters comments that he is “not truly American.” King said this forces him to carve out his own definition, describing being American as “carving out that third space.” The survey underscores ongoing concerns within the Asian-American community about being stereotyped as hardworking but not fully accepted.
- 50% of all Americans surveyed said birthplace is key to being 'truly' American
- Only 23% of Asian-Americans agreed with that view, indicating a major perception gap
- Matt King, a 34-year-old graphic designer, reported regularly facing microaggressions questioning his U.S. citizenship
Why It Matters
The data reveals systemic belonging issues for Asian-Americans, impacting social cohesion and community trust in mainstream institutions.