Asians have struggled against political, social, and economic dynamics that continue to redefine their identities and livelihoods. In particular, systematic migration, employment contracts and racism have created disparities in multiple areas. These systems have contributed to the reshaping of Asian identity, which in turn has impacted their sense of belonging. Three different contexts discussed in class provide a framework for understanding how acts of agency reframed their identity and facilitated or inhibited inclusion and equality. The "Asian American movement" is distinct in that it challenged predominant conceptions of an established identity by creating a new identity for Asians. For many Asians, the 1960s and 1970s were times of political activism that benefited them greatly. Asian activists were banned together, forming a common identity as “Asian Americans.” Their organizations and programs provided ethnic groups with political, social, and economic structures that challenged those of white America and laid the foundation for the creation of this identity. As “Asian Americans,” the activists sought to eliminate the stereotypes, discrimination, and exclusion that have pervaded their history. Their resistance to negative portrayals directed at them has manifested itself in the form of social and political movements. The union between students and the Third World Liberation Front (TWLF) played a vital role in creating a new identity for Asians. More specifically, student activists at San Francisco State University facilitated social change by exposing students from diverse and similar backgrounds to communities “cut off from the resources of higher education” (Lee 301). Many also formed organizations such as the Intercollegiate Chinese...... middle of paper ......stance, the photo depicts generations of Chinese, including women and people who did not build the railroad. If one were to do a "before and after", the differences would be evident. This photo recognizes their accomplishments and also shows their overwhelming presence in America. Literally, the photo seeks to demonstrate that Asians “were here and are here” and, in doing so, exposes the systems that have excluded Chinese people for so long. It is a response to the discrimination Asians have faced and confronts society with the reality of Asian inclusion. After all, there would be no need to document this historical moment again if the Chinese were given credit for their contributions. Therefore, the contrast between the old and new photos has a great impact as it pushes the public to question the issues that led to the exclusion of the Chinese..