With approximately 24 million Asians residing in the United States, a significant portion, around 2.3 million, grapple with poverty. Despite facing economic hardships, many Asian Americans are relentlessly pursuing their American dream. However, their journey is rife with obstacles, ranging from language barriers for immigrants to navigating pathways to success for U.S.-born Asians.
UNDERSTANDING ECONOMIC HARDSHIP
In February 2023, the Pew Research Centre conducted 18 focus groups involving adult participants from 11 Asian origin groups across the U.S. These groups represent those most likely to experience economic adversity. The discussions shed light on the varied experiences of Asian Americans, particularly highlighting the disparities between immigrants and U.S.-born individuals.
DIVERSE POVERTY RATES ACROSS ASIAN ORIGIN GROUPS
Poverty rates among Asian Americans vary significantly across different origin groups. While some, like Filipino and Indian Americans, experience relatively low poverty rates, others, such as Burmese and Hmong Americans, face higher levels of poverty. Despite these differences, a common thread emerges: the resilience and determination of individuals striving to overcome economic challenges.
THE DUAL STRUGGLE: LANGUAGE BARRIERS AND CULTURAL ADJUSTMENT
For immigrants, the journey to economic stability is compounded by the need to adapt to a new and unfamiliar country. Learning English, navigating daily life, and securing stable employment pose significant hurdles. Despite being U.S.-born and fluent in English, many Asian Americans express difficulty understanding the nuances of success in America, reflecting the complexities of assimilation and integration.
FINANCIAL CHALLENGES AND COPING STRATEGIES
A Pew Research Center survey conducted in 2022 and 2023 revealed that financial difficulties are pervasive among Asian Americans living in poverty. From inability to save for emergencies to difficulty paying bills, these challenges often come in bundles, exacerbating the strain on individuals and families. Despite these hardships, Asian Americans demonstrate resilience by seeking assistance from family, government, and community resources.
THE PURSUIT OF THE AMERICAN DREAM
While nearly half of Asian Americans living in poverty believes the American dream is out of reach, many remain optimistic about their prospects. Key elements such as freedom of choice, family stability, and homeownership are integral to their vision of success. Despite disparities in homeownership rates between those above and below the poverty line, the desire to achieve the American dream remains unwavering.
RESILIENCE AND HOPE
The journey of Asian Americans toward the American dream is marked by resilience, determination, and hope. Despite facing formidable challenges, they persist in their pursuit of economic stability and prosperity. By understanding their experiences and addressing systemic barriers, society can better support Asian Americans in realizing their aspirations and contributing to the diverse tapestry of American society.
