Historically, the term “hyphenated-American” was a derogatory epithet used to discriminate against foreign born citizens and immigrants and discourage them from showing pride for their culture. Even today, terms like Asian-American or LGBT-American, are still used to separate, and marginalize minority identities because being a “hyphenated American” suggests being a lesser American also. But identity is more complex than that and is defined by more than just a person’s race or sexuality.
Joining Eight O’Clock Buzz. producer Kai Brito is Micki Nordeen, Associate Director of Festivals for Wisconsin Union Directorate (WUD).