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In this course, we will examine the origin of the term “AAPI,” distinct and yet overlapping histories and relations between Asian American and Pacific Islander communities; the emergence and persistence of the model minority myth and its harms. Focusing on the local history of Orange County, we will explore the following key topics: the Vietnam War; U.S militarism in the Pacific; Pacific Islander community formations; Southeast Asian Refugee resettlement and homemaking; and lastly, contemporary Asian American and Pacific Islander advocacy and activism in Orange County. The Asian American and Pacific Islander history component will build the foundation and inform students’ creative production — Zine making.