Latinos in Action (LIA), People of the Pacific (POP), and Black Student Union (BSU) have begun to blossom at Copper Hills High, mostly being recognized for performing during the International Assembly held annually at the school. They do a variety of things, such as spreading awareness about their culture, holding social events, and volunteering in the community. They serve as a safe space for those who identify as People of Color (PoC), and are also open to individuals who may not be. For many students who have joined these clubs, many have found a strong sense of community within.

There is a multicultural group missing from amongst these, however. For a few years now, following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, the once-existent Asian-American club has disappeared. Students are now hoping to bring it back to life in order to not only establish a strong community for Asian-American students at Copper Hills High, but also to educate those who wish to learn about Asian culture. 

Meg Young, Copper Hill’s Junior Class President expresses, “I was shocked that CH didn’t have a club for asian students. There’s a good amount of Asians in our school, so it was surprising that we didn’t have one, but it really would’ve been nice to bond with people who have had similar experiences as me. For example, feeling as though I’ve suppressed my culture living in a dominantly white community.” She also adds, “I would like to see tons of kids, not just asians, in the club to learn more about our cultures. It shouldn’t only be about us but educating others as well. Our differences should bring us together, not cause more polarization in our CH community.”

Jenn Ha, a former, graduated, Vietnamese-American student who helped lead the club in years past, recognizes the call-to-action and describes the importance of its presence by saying, “The club was a place where I found a sense of community for my true self. I had people that I could relate with, and that understood me, and I felt seen. It was somewhere where I wasn’t embarrassed to be myself or to share parts of me.” Meeting people who understand and care about your background is a crucial part of growing in life. It can be tough navigating through three years of high school without that meaningful connection.

The newly-established Asian-American club has been given the name ASIA (Advocates of Student Interest in Asia) to further extend a hand out to those who don’t associate themselves as Asian-American, but have interest in learning about Asian culture. The club plans to branch out by holding support group discussions and inviting people from all backgrounds to participate. It is still in the works of being developed, but for those who are intrigued about learning more, or interested in joining this or next year, feel free to stop by Dr. Haslam’s classroom, which is room 2802. A club means nothing without its members, and the school is in need of an Asian-American club, the missing lens that can now be reformed.