The Lao and Korean elders emphasized the importance of doing the right thing, following local laws, and contributing to society. Many reported that they regularly or sometimes vote and actively participate in local customs. This commitment reflects their desire to be seen as responsible contributors to society and to demonstrate their value, which helps them feel a sense of belonging. Their efforts to prove their worth and establish a positive presence also reveal an underlying anxiety about being viewed as foreign or “less than”. For most, this motivation arose from a sense of responsibility to build a strong community for their children and future generations.
This duty was also intertwined with a history of oppressive governments, which was associated with fears of punishment, death or exile for the Lao elders.
“Just follow the law and you’ll be safe”
A few Lao elders recalled their time in the refugee camps, highlighting the critical need to follow the rules and refrain from discussing their opinions of the government. Adhering to the camp rules was crucial, as breaking them could jeopardize their access to resettlement interviews. The interviews conducted in the refugee camps in Nongkhai, Thailand, or the Philippines were primarily immigration and resettlement interviews, which involved verifying the refugees’ identities, backgrounds, and the circumstances that led to their displacement. Officials aimed to ensure that the individuals met the criteria for refugee status and to determine their suitability for resettlement in the United States. Some individuals spent up to three years or more in refugee camps in Thailand or the Philippines, waiting for the interview that would grant them entry to the United States. A Lao elder vividly described the fear, sadness, and grief they experienced, unable to trust neighbors in the camp who might be Communist spies. The sense of disconnection, lack of trust, and insecurity they felt in the camp was palpable.
The Korean elders echoed similar sentiments, linking their behavior to both legal and moral duties. In describing their responsibilities as citizens, they emphasized the importance of not tarnishing the Korean image by behaving out of line with American standards. They underscored the significance of voting, paying taxes, participating in other civic activities, keeping the exterior of their homes tidy, and refraining from actions that could cause displeasure to others.
“I want to participate as much as I can in bettering America.”
“If you just follow the law, you don’t get discriminated against”
They noted that following the law helps prevent discrimination and fosters good relationships with local authorities. They saw being good models as a way to positively influence the perception of Korean Americans, and voting as essential to being an American.
In summary, both Lao and Korean elders viewed adherence to laws and active civic participation as crucial strategies for establishing their identities, gaining acceptance, and positively impacting American society.