The Story

In my first year of teaching, I was assigned bus duty at a rural elementary school. While instructing my students to line up, a high school boy on the bus called out, "Hey, there is a THINGEE speaking!" I was taken aback and unable to respond. I felt shocked and embarrassed, not knowing how to address the situation. 

While on hall duty during my second year at a high school, a boy called me, "ChingChangChog, there is a Chinese bitxx!" I approached him and firmly stated, "Hey, I don't know your name, but I am not a Chinese bitxx. I am THE  Korean bitxx!" Since that incident, he and the other students have never used those derogatory words towards me again.

Through these experiences, I have come to understand the importance of rejecting language slurs. It is crucial for me to speak up whenever I witness something wrong, and I have realized that jokes can significantly impact my life. As a result, I have developed a sense of humor and integrated humor into various aspects of my life.

Following these incidents, others have started recognizing that I do not conform to the stereotypes associated with Asian females. I am not invisible, quiet, or dull. Instead, I am a funny and caring Korean, Ms. Choi, because I say, ''I hate everyone equally!''

Now, all of my students and teachers at school know my Korean heritage and my efforts to promote Korean culture. Some other teachers at the school have also become aware of this. As a result, whenever there is an International night or cultural event at the school, they reach out and request a Korean culture booth.

I have received calls from several families expressing their gratitude for their child and myself for spreading Korean culture, particularly through introducing Korean cuisine. On special occasions, their child cooks a Korean dinner for the family.

I am hopeful that the continued promotion of Korean culture and the appreciation of other cultures with respect will persist as an ongoing endeavor.