Chink's Steaks

[seoulone]

I just called Chink's Steaks, in Philadelphia.
Here is the conversation that I had with Cathy,
a Chink's Steaks employee.

me: Hello, I was wondering where your
restaurant got the name Chink's Steaks?
Cathy: The owner had chink eyes.
me: What?!
Cathy: Yeah, I think that's right- he had
slanty eyes.
Cathy (to another employee): Is that right?
Didn't he have slanty Chinese eyes?
me: Is the owner Chinese?
Cathy: No he's Jewish.
me: Are you aware of the connotation of the
word chink?
Cathy: No.
me: Are you aware that chink is the equivalant
to the racial slur nigger?
Cathy: No
me: Do you think the owner is aware?
Cathy: No
me: Is he the owner now?
Cathy: No, he's dead.
me: Who is the owner now?
Cathy: Joe
me: Okay, umm, thanks. Bye.

Chink's Steaks is located on 6030 Torresdale
Avenue in Philadelphia. You can call them at
215-535-9405. I am truly disgusted.

[yoMAMA]

wow, that's a blatantly pretty racist name.

Lawsuits anyone?

[Napoleon Chynamite]

wow, that's a blatantly pretty racist name.

Lawsuits anyone?

I'm not sure if you can actually sue anyone for having an offensive name for a shop or restaurant...but maybe you can..I dunno.

You can at least complain, protest, campaign, throw old unwanted shoes and silverware at their windows, etc.

[Green_Circle]

I can't believe a nice Jewish fella would use something so offensive.

[yoMAMA]

I'm not sure if you can actually sue anyone for having an offensive name for a shop or restaurant...but maybe you can..I dunno.

You can at least complain, protest, campaign, throw old unwanted shoes and silverware at their windows, etc.

off course you can.

Do you think rev. sharpton or the anti deflamation league would sit well with something like negro's grill or cafe big nose?

i don't think so.

[TidaMaria]

Chink's Steak is offensive. I mean, I don't want to gripe about every darn thing that sounds racist but the name of the restaurant alone sounds racist.

[Danny]

I do not think that the term Chink is term that we are thinking that it is. Chink's was a common nickname for guys back in the day, usually pool players or dancers. But yes, it was also a negative term in regards to Asians. If we start policing every name because some group does not like it, then we should start going through and eliminating names of various NCAA schools, stores around the world. If the person that named Chink's, or the organization that came up with the name for the chain can verify the history of the name, then I do not think it should be changed....

In regards to calling up the store about the name... lord... why not just call up a random person that walked into the store? What did you expect from person on the other end, who was probably, okay, let me clarify, obviously not educated enough to work in anything other than a sub shop?

[Napoleon Chynamite]

I do not think that the term Chink is term that we are thinking that it is. Chink's was a common nickname for guys back in the day, usually pool players or dancers.

Uh yeah....but didn't one of the employees (according to the first post in this thread) like state that the owner's 'chinky' eyes were the reason for the name in the first place?

[Danny]

Uh yeah....but didn't one of the employees (according to the first post in this thread) like state that the owner's 'chinky' eyes were the reason for the name in the first place?

again, there is a reason that they work in an establishment like this... they obviously are pretty low on the schooling chart and are probably not the brightest stars in the sky.

[dragonlord]

again, there is a reason that they work in an establishment like this... they obviously are pretty low on the schooling chart and are probably not the brightest stars in the sky.

But, the intelligence of the worker's isn't in question here, the fact is due to appearance of the dead owner's eyes, they're using a derogatory term as the name for said establishment.

I mean, what if I opened up a restaurant and called it "Nigger's Mongolian Barbecue" just cuz of my tan.

[Danny]

But, the intelligence of the worker's isn't in question here, the fact is due to appearance of the dead owner's eyes, they're using a derogatory term as the name for said establishment.

I mean, what if I opened up a restaurant and called it "Nigger's Mongolian Barbecue" just cuz of my tan.

That is totally different.... chinks was a actual nickname for people back then, not just as a racial term in regards to chinese, chinks was a physical name that people used in everday passing in a non racial way. Nigger on the other hand has never to my knowledge been used in anything other than a negative and racial connotation.

[dragonlord]

That is totally different.... chinks was a actual nickname for people back then, not just as a racial term in regards to chinese, chinks was a physical name that people used in everday passing in a non racial way. Nigger on the other hand has never to my knowledge been used in anything other than a negative and racial connotation.

I see what you're saying. The worker that answered the phone might've been misinformed as to the true nature of the name's origin. There's still a lot of room for speculation. But, I'm leaning towards the guy's appearance more than not.

There's a hispanic guy I know who's friends call him "Chino". And, gunfunit! In the correct lighting he DOES look Asian as shit!

[TB4000]

If no one complains about it, they won't feel any desire to change it, end of story.

[kasia]

can we verify the conversation? not to say that i don't believe you, but you just haven't been a member for very long.

[>:^|]

http://www.hollyeats.com/images/Philadelphia/Chinks-Sign.jpg

[kasia]

moving to rant - since nothing is being done about this yet.

[Green_Circle]

That is totally different.... chinks was a actual nickname for people back then, not just as a racial term in regards to chinese, chinks was a physical name that people used in everday passing in a non racial way. Nigger on the other hand has never to my knowledge been used in anything other than a negative and racial connotation.

I'd feel kinda weird answering someone who called me hey, chink. Um yes, you called, here at your service.

[kasia]

I do not think that the term Chink is term that we are thinking that it is. Chink's was a common nickname for guys back in the day, usually pool players or dancers. But yes, it was also a negative term in regards to Asians. If we start policing every name because some group does not like it, then we should start going through and eliminating names of various NCAA schools, stores around the world. If the person that named Chink's, or the organization that came up with the name for the chain can verify the history of the name, then I do not think it should be changed....

In regards to calling up the store about the name... lord... why not just call up a random person that walked into the store? What did you expect from person on the other end, who was probably, okay, let me clarify, obviously not educated enough to work in anything other than a sub shop?

i am not familiar with the history of the word "chink". are you saying that all men back then could be referred to as a "chink"?

[Banana]

I do not think that the term Chink is term that we are thinking that it is. Chink's was a common nickname for guys back in the day, usually pool players or dancers. But yes, it was also a negative term in regards to Asians. If we start policing every name because some group does not like it, then we should start going through and eliminating names of various NCAA schools, stores around the world. If the person that named Chink's, or the organization that came up with the name for the chain can verify the history of the name, then I do not think it should be changed....

I see more things on these boards about issues that we CAN'T complain about. It seems that, from both Asians and non-Asians, we can't complain about anything (even though blacks would have a field day) unless we're just shy of being sent into internment camps or lined up and shot.

I mean, god. What in the world is going on here?

[kasia]

I see more things on these boards about issues that we CAN'T complain about. It seems that, from both Asians and non-Asians, we can't complain about anything (even though blacks would have a field day) unless we're just shy of being sent into internment camps or lined up and shot.

I mean, god. What in the world is going on here?

right. i can't agree with you more.

but practically speaking, i would like to know the history of the word, the history of the restaurant, and - if need be - do something about it. if the name of the store was originally chosen for a racist reason, i do think - yes - that YW should make them change it. let's do some investigation.

[Banana]

Though I'm not Democratic, I must voice how people that don't support Asian American advocate group, both financially or emotionally, listen very closely as to how we react to situations like this.

They scour the Earth...

And look for apologetic minorities such as Michelle Malkin and Larry Elders to discredit any complaint minorities might have no matter how legit it might seem.

"They don't find anything wrong with it? Why do you?! If they think it's ok, it must be since he/she is from your race! Go home and stop protesting. Since you all drive Mercedes and BMWs, life is good for you! You made it! Screw respect! Screw tolerance! Money is all that matters!"

Apparently, just 1 of those types of people outweigh exactly 300 normal people. So, if you have 600 protesters, all they need is 2 of those and they're all set.

I'm not saying that any poster here falls into that category but I mean, what the hell?

[>:^|]

I see more things on these boards about issues that we CAN'T complain about. It seems that, from both Asians and non-Asians, we can't complain about anything (even though blacks would have a field day) unless we're just shy of being sent into internment camps or lined up and shot.

I'm not sure what you're saying. Would you explain more?

And I'm also wondering if we might talk about the issues without making insulting references to other people of color.

[krome]

Cathy: The owner had chink eyes.

Clearly, this is so blatantly racist and offensive - it's hard to believe. Since when is it ok to use "chink (http://www.sugarplastic.com/chink.html)," much less by a non-Asian to name a public restaurant at that - especially due to phenotypical stereotyping? But, what's more unbelievable is all the apologetic rationalizing going on in here. I think we've all been immersed in the anti-Asian status quo so long we've internalized it.

Q: Why is Chink's acceptable but not N*gger's or Kike's?
A: It's not. So, let's quit reinforcing our society's racist double-standards.

[Blue dice]

Maybe this problem can be solved with a strategically placed molotov cocktail.

[seoulone]

Hi yes, this is true. Do a google search on Chink's Steaks. You can find information on the restaurant as well as find the quote from the Philadelphia Inquirer. Chink is a racial slur. The origins are not exactly known, but the use of the word chink in this restaurant's name regardless of origin is offensive. Allowing the restaurant to keep a racial slur as it's name licenses others to use these words without thinking it is offensive. The use of the word chink has a deep history of racism not only with those of Chinese descent but all Asians.

Because Asian American empowerment is a fairly recent thing I find it important that we come together in many numbers to let not only this restaurant, but people in general know that "chink" is not appropiate. Not just Asians but people of color in general as well as Caucasians who find this offensive- because IT IS- need to come together to protest. I don't think that the restaurant should be shut down, but I do believe that it should change it's name.

[Banana]

I'm not sure what you're saying. Would you explain more?

And I'm also wondering if we might talk about the issues without making insulting references to other people of color.

I can sum it up this way. "If we can't complain about a legit reason, what CAN be complain about? I browse these boards from time to time and from what I can see, we can't really bitch about anything in life short of being lined up and shot by the KKK."

I'm not making insulting references to other colored races. I just find myself brutally honest to the point of sounding rude. Besides, it's the truth that the African American community would go crazy had their been a soul food eatery called "Nigger Lips."

Learn to read the fine print, guy. Honestly, I gave no disparaging remarks regarding the IMer program article where someone referred the use of the phrase "Chink in the Armor" type title. So, I'm already one up when it comes to being fairly tolerant regarding a racial slur. Sure, my ears pick up but when I find the context of how the word was used, I pay it no mind.

However, not only did this restaurant use a racial slur but it is also used to refer to Asian eyes which now makes it fair grounds to be labeled as racist.

[kasia]

I'm not sure what you're saying. Would you explain more?

And I'm also wondering if we might talk about the issues without making insulting references to other people of color.

i think i know what she's saying - basically that, in our community, most asians are so quick to DEFEND something than to question as to whether it is really racist. asians who shop at abercrombie are so quick to defend the store as not racist - without stopping to ask themselves whether they are aware of what a & f did and what the allegations are against them, etc. they're so quick to want to quiet the asians who are trying to speak up - rather than taking the time to listen and consider what they are saying.

and i don't think she was necessarily [utting down black people. she's just saying that they would be pretty upset if the restaurant were called, "nigger's steaks." and i agree with that.

[kasia]

Hi yes, this is true. Do a google search on Chink's Steaks. You can find information on the restaurant as well as find the quote from the Philadelphia Inquirer. Chink is a racial slur. The origins are not exactly known, but the use of the word chink in this restaurant's name regardless of origin is offensive. Allowing the restaurant to keep a racial slur as it's name licenses others to use these words without thinking it is offensive. The use of the word chink has a deep history of racism not only with those of Chinese descent but all Asians.

Because Asian American empowerment is a fairly recent thing I find it important that we come together in many numbers to let not only this restaurant, but people in general know that "chink" is not appropiate. Not just Asians but people of color in general as well as Caucasians who find this offensive- because IT IS- need to come together to protest. I don't think that the restaurant should be shut down, but I do believe that it should change it's name.


i agree with you. however, i would like to know the origin of their name before proceeding. any ideas?

[Blue dice]

I'm not making insulting references to other colored races. I just find myself brutally honest to the point of sounding rude. Besides, it's the truth that the African American community would go crazy had their been a soul food eatery called "Nigger Lips."
There was an actual jim crow era restaraunt called Coon chicken inn. It lasted until the last 50's but i'm not sure how much activism played a role in its closure. Anyways, I agree this "chink's" restaraunt is offensive. It's like opening a Spic or Nigger cafe. Like I said an "accidental" fire would do that place some good.

[>:^|]

I can sum it up this way. "If we can't complain about a legit reason, what CAN be complain about? I browse these boards from time to time and from what I can see, we can't really bitch about anything in life short of being lined up and shot by the KKK."

I think people on yellowworld are very supportive to activism. However, I don't think we can ever expect everyone to agree about every issue.

For what it's worth, my thought is that although I believe the restaurant owners should be educated on the topic and I support people who would do so, this is less of a priority to me than it would be were "Chink's" a national chain. This is not to discount the original poster's concerns or to disagree with his or her position.

I'm not making insulting references to other colored races. I just find myself brutally honest to the point of sounding rude. Besides, it's the truth that the African American community would go crazy had their been a soul food eatery called "Nigger Lips."

My thought is that saying that blacks would have a field day or that Al Sharpton would be out bitching up a storm is insulting. It trivializes others' concerns. Since we don't like it when others say that we are "complaining" or making much ado over nothing, I would hope that we could avoid such references.

I also think that using the "black test"--such as your made-up restaurant name--may be helpful in getting people to understand the issue, but that using specific derogatory terms additionally perpetuates racism.

[>:^|]

asians who shop at abercrombie are so quick to defend the store as not racist - without stopping to ask themselves whether they are aware of what a & f did and what the allegations are against them, etc. they're so quick to want to quiet the asians who are trying to speak up - rather than taking the time to listen and consider what they are saying.

Because life would be better if that were the truth. :frown:

[seoulone]

before: http://www.imdiversity.com/villages/asian/article_detail.asp?Article_ID=6617
after: http://app1.chinadaily.com.cn/star/2001/1025/fe20-2.html

August 2002 Philadelphia Inquirer: "The restaurant's moniker is the late founder's nickname."

[Banana]

My thought is that saying that blacks would have a field day or that Al Sharpton would be out bitching up a storm is insulting. It trivializes others' concerns. Since we don't like it when others say that we are "complaining" or making much ado over nothing, I would hope that we could avoid such references.

Guess what. It has. Regardless of what others here on this board think, I do find that the majority of issues being complained about from the Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton camp usually holds no water even though legit Asian American issues are completely ignored but I digress. That's a topic for another time.

I don't care if it's a national chain or not. I care about the small racist acts, not the big popular situations that "might-sound-racist-but-aren't."

[>:^|]

Guess what. It has. Regardless of what others here on this board think, I do find that the majority of issues being complained about from the Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton camp usually holds no water even though legit Asian American issues are completely ignored but I digress. That's a topic for another time.

My thought is just that this is dangerous ground to tread. Others may not understand our perspective, which is shaped by the unique experience of being an Asian in America.

[Banana]

Not me.

I find that they just don't care because we don't have the power to make them care. It's also easy to disrespect us because we're quiet and we don't hold the same values as many people.

But I digress. Again. :rolleyes:

[Green_Circle]

Remember last year when Japan had "darkie" toothpaste? Wow, they were quickly jumped upon as well they should've been.

[Banana]

Remember last year when Japan had "darkie" toothpaste? Wow, they were quickly jumped upon as well they should've been.

I still have several tubes of that when I went to visit Hong Kong. Some guy offered me $50 for a tube.

[kitty]

before: http://www.imdiversity.com/villages/asian/article_detail.asp?Article_ID=6617
after: http://app1.chinadaily.com.cn/star/2001/1025/fe20-2.html

August 2002 Philadelphia Inquirer: "The restaurant's moniker is the late founder's nickname."

while i see a problem with having a racial epithet being used publicly without much regard for other uses of the word, this is about the same argument to me as the other one, where 'chink in window's security' was used as a headline.

A word can have many meanings, and it's hardly a bright idea to name your store soemthing that can be offensive to potential customers, there's not much I feel that can be really done about it.

If YW wants to jump on the bandwagon and oppose this restaurant, i'm willing to take action, but for me, this instance of this word being used in this situation doesn't really strike me as high up on the priority list.

[krome]

If YW wants to jump on the bandwagon and oppose this restaurant, i'm willing to take action, but for me, this instance of this word being used in this situation doesn't really strike me as high up on the priority list.
What if it were N*gger's Steaks, would you have this same reaction (or lack of one)?

[kasia]

If YW wants to jump on the bandwagon and oppose this restaurant, i'm willing to take action, but for me, this instance of this word being used in this situation doesn't really strike me as high up on the priority list.

what bandwagon? what other groups are doing something about this?

[Banana]

And what other more important issues are there at the moment?

Not a sarcastic response. Really, what is there? :)

[kitty]

what bandwagon? what other groups are doing something about this?

seoulone posted the link to the OCA resolution which protests racial epithets being used in geographical names. I assume that would cover this restaurant. (rereads) hmmm... bandwagon was probably mis-used. I retract. :)

krome -- it's my same outlook. If a private restaurant wants to use 'nigger's steaks' as their name, that's pretty stupid. I would oppose it (as I said, I would take action if YW as a whole decided to start a campaign on this) but I think there are more important things to consider than the name of a single restaurant I will never see in real life in a state I have never been to before.

More important issues? Lack of Asian representation in primetime television.

[Danny]

August 2002 Philadelphia Inquirer: "The restaurant's moniker is the late founder's nickname."

what are the chances of that? :)

I think that should be the end of this discussion....

It's the man's last name for crying out loud.... it would be like saying Kim's pharmacy needs to shut down if in the future Kim became a deragotaory term...

[Green_Circle]

Well I don't know about you guys but I don't really appreciate when someone jumps in my face and calls me a dirty chink. Matter of fact I find it totally unacceptable and may even voice my opinion directly.

[kitty]

Well I don't know about you guys but I don't really appreciate when someone jumps in my face and calls me a dirty chink. Matter of fact I find it totally unacceptable and may even voice my opinion directly.

huh? who did this to you? the restaurant owners?

[krome]

It's the man's last name for crying out loud.... it would be like saying Kim's pharmacy needs to shut down if in the future Kim became a deragotaory term...
Read the very first post. It was the Jewish owner's nickname (not real name) cuz his eyes looked like "chink" eyes*. A clear derogatory reference.

*Think about that one short, dark-haired whiny Jewish comedian with the squinty eyes...what's his name?

[kasia]

Read the very first post. It was the Jewish owner's nickname (not real name) cuz his eyes looked like "chink" eyes*. A clear derogatory reference.

*Think about that one short, dark-haired whiny Jewish comedian with the squinty eyes...what's his name?

you're right. but we need to verify that conversation. we know now that the name was actually the nickname of the owner - through the article in the philadelphia inquirer - but we need something to confirm that it had to do with his eyes.

[krome]

you're right. but we need to verify that conversation. we know now that the name was actually the nickname of the owner - through the article in the philadelphia inquirer - but we need something to confirm that it had to do with his eyes.
SeoulOne called them up herself and posted her conversation on the VERY FIRST POST IN THIS THREAD. Read it. It very specifically states the unapologetically racist origin of the "chink" nickname. What more proof do you need? Perhaps a photo of the owner would confirm that he indeed had stereotypically "chinky" eyes?* Ok, not a bad idea - someone try to obtain one - there may even be one in the restaurant.

And, obviously, nobody's last name could be "Chink," c'mon... :rolleyes:

* Meaning, they might look like this?
http://en.wikipedia.org/upload/9/97/Sun.jpg

[kitty]

SeoulOne called them up herself and posted her conversation on the VERY FIRST POST IN THIS THREAD. Read it. It very specifically states the unapologetically racist origin of the "chink" nickname. What more proof do you need? Perhaps a photo of the owner to confirm that he had "chinky" eyes? Ok, not a bad idea - someone try to obtain one - there may even be one in the restaurant.


Well, how about an official statement by the restaurant owners. SeoulOne could've been talking to the fourteen-year old hostess who was hired to take over-the-phone reservations.


And, obviously, nobody's last name could be "Chink," c'mon... :rolleyes:

Why not?

[Tao]

SeoulOne called them up herself and posted her conversation on the VERY FIRST POST IN THIS THREAD. Read it. It very specifically states the unapologetically racist origin of the "chink" nickname. What more proof do you need? Perhaps a photo of the owner would confirm that he indeed had stereotypically "chinky" eyes?* Ok, not a bad idea - someone try to obtain one - there may even be one in the restaurant.

And, obviously, nobody's last name could be "Chink," c'mon... :rolleyes:

* Meaning, they might look like this?
http://en.wikipedia.org/upload/9/97/Sun.jpg

we should defiently get it "from the horse's mouth" if you will. otherwise doing this without enough hardcore evidence can just make it embarassing and wasteful.

getting a picture, or getting a person who is credible (and representative) of the steak house to admit to why they named it "chink's" would be so much better than having a waiter (who might have made up the reason on her own) saying it.

[achtungbaby]

Sorry I'm not able to comment more on this folks. Has anyone else made a phone call to them? What disturbs me about this is more than the notion of a single restaurant, some anomaly, that bears a racist name...it's the fact that their employees seemed so oblivious to the offensiveness of the name.

Again, I don't suppose it would be that difficult to verify all of this...

[kasia]

SeoulOne called them up herself and posted her conversation on the VERY FIRST POST IN THIS THREAD. Read it. It very specifically states the unapologetically racist origin of the "chink" nickname. What more proof do you need? Perhaps a photo of the owner would confirm that he indeed had stereotypically "chinky" eyes?* Ok, not a bad idea - someone try to obtain one - there may even be one in the restaurant.

And, obviously, nobody's last name could be "Chink," c'mon... :rolleyes:

* Meaning, they might look like this?
http://en.wikipedia.org/upload/9/97/Sun.jpg

don't tell me what to do. i did read it. i need verification. i don't know seoulone and neither do you. so, frankly, we have no reason to believe him at this point (no offense to seoulone).

the type of proof needed: a statement in an published interview, a blurb about the history of its name on its website, etc. etc.

[kasia]

Sorry I'm not able to comment more on this folks. Has anyone else made a phone call to them? What disturbs me about this is more than the notion of a single restaurant, some anomaly, that bears a racist name...it's the fact that their employees seemed so oblivious to the offensiveness of the name.

Again, I don't suppose it would be that difficult to verify all of this...

yes, seoulone has called them again and they gave him the same story. that the owner had chinky eyes and that "chink" was not a deragatory term back then. they also said it would be too expensive to change their name and they would lose customers. cry me a river.


anyway, i would suggest *not* calling them anymore until we come up with a strategy. that way, if we do take action, they wouldn't be prepared.

[achtungbaby]

6030 Torresdale Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19135
215-535-9405

I can call after work if no one else can.

[kasia]

6030 Torresdale Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19135
215-535-9405

I can call after work if no one else can.

i think we posted at the same time - see the post right above this one.

[SunWuKong]

Remember last year when Japan had "darkie" toothpaste? Wow, they were quickly jumped upon as well they should've been.

I still have several tubes of that when I went to visit Hong Kong. Some guy offered me $50 for a tube.

actually in HK it's been renamed to "Darlie" over 10 years ago. there was a lawsuit in HK that made the company rename it. this actually kind of surprises me because i honestly can't remember the last time i saw an African American in HK. there are Africans there but they're all extremely poor or they're tourists that can only afford to stay at hostels. i'm not sure if they were responsible for the lawsuit.

[kasia]

say we do want to do something:

what do you propose can be done?

[lethal]

Is there anyone in Philadelphia who wants to actually spearhead the campaign on the ground? Is there anyone who would be willing to interview the owner or a representative?

I think if we do something, that should be a starting point. A real understanding of what they mean...something we can point to if we're asked questions about anything. That way they can't contradict themselves or else we can call them on it.

[kasia]

Is there anyone in Philadelphia who wants to actually spearhead the campaign on the ground? Is there anyone who would be willing to interview the owner or a representative?

I think if we do something, that should be a starting point. A real understanding of what they mean...something we can point to if we're asked questions about anything. That way they can't contradict themselves or else we can call them on it.


we can do a 'roger & me'. and i think we can tape them walking out in public - b/c they don't have a expectation of privacy in their faces when they're out in public, right?

[stunninglyAsian]

Why now? It's been around since 1950? Have previous attempts to change the name failed? Or did we just not bother with it until now?

[seoulone]

there is supposedly a news article in the steak restaurant with a picture of they guy and it also states that his nickname is "chink"

[kasia]

there is supposedly a news article in the steak restaurant with a picture of they guy and it also states that his nickname is "chink"

can any philly members head down there and take a photo of this?

[Chester]

How are the steaks? Do they serve good steaks?

[ChinaLama]

How are the steaks? Do they serve good steaks?

cheesesteak sandwiches and shakes.

[Chester]

cheesesteak sandwiches and shakes.
Any good?

[seoulone]

supposedly the steaks are pretty good, the owner made sure to let me know that...like i would bite into his steak and all would be forgiven...ha.

[Chester]

Do a search on Google and apparently they're very good and well-known.

This all reminds me of "Sambo's," in Santa Barbara, which didn't get its name from "Little Black Sambo," but from a combination of "Sam" and "Bo," the names of the founders.

Un-PC and insensitive, but I'd rather buy a cheesesteak from Chink's than stand outside it with a picket sign.

[kasia]

Do a search on Google and apparently they're very good and well-known.

This all reminds me of "Sambo's," in Santa Barbara, which didn't get its name from "Little Black Sambo," but from a combination of "Sam" and "Bo," the names of the founders.

Un-PC and insensitive, but I'd rather buy a cheesesteak from Chink's than stand outside it with a picket sign.


that's just cause you're hungry and selfish. anyhow, sambos was closed down.

[BeTheReds]

Yea, I'll go and protest Chinks sub shop while wearing my Washington Redskins regalia.

J/K...

I'll support everyone if we can find verifiable evidence to the origin of the name and get a statement from the restaurant about that.

[younggiftedandblack]

off course you can.

Do you think rev. sharpton or the anti deflamation league would sit well with something like negro's grill or cafe big nose?

i don't think so.

There use to be a Chinese resturant where I lived called "The Chinky Chickee" it had an Asian woman holding a bowl of rice on the front sign. This was owned by an Asian man however.

[BeTheReds]

This all reminds me of "Sambo's," in Santa Barbara, which didn't get its name from "Little Black Sambo," but from a combination of "Sam" and "Bo," the names of the founders.



That could have easily been dealt with had they changed the restaurant to Sam&Bo's or.. Samuel&Bouregard's

[seoulone]

i can get a picture, but i'm kind of hesitant...i've already called the place twice and the guy sounded hostile...it would be better if someone else did it because i don't want him to be thinking i'm harassing him...i'm a 5'5" 100 lb girl too...but i could have my roommate do it possibly

[>:^|]

Guess what. It has. Regardless of what others here on this board think, I do find that the majority of issues being complained about from the Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton camp usually holds no water even though legit Asian American issues are completely ignored but I digress.

My thought is just that this is dangerous ground to tread. Others may not understand our perspective, which is shaped by the unique experience of being an Asian in America.

My clarification: We consider our issues legitimate. Undoubtedly African Americans consider their issues legitimate. When we discount their issues, it may be that we are unable to consider their perspective. Much in the same way that people who discount our issues don't have any understanding of our perspective. But when we diss other groups' concerns, we contribute to the general belief that the issues of all people of color are trivial. Which is what Whites would love to have us believe in the first place.

I think the best way to determine what is important to others is by asking them what issues they have recently taken action on. Just talking about the issue on an internet forum doesn't really count.

By the way ... there are any of a number of racist business names. There was an article in the paper last year about the number of businesses with the term "Jap." And of course, there are the various racist geographic names. And then there are the streets, parks, schools and other institutions named after people like Samuel Gompers or Denis Kearney.

In local issues, I tend to work locally. My thought would be that the most effective way to address this business would be through presence on site.

[applehead]

what are the chances of that? :)

I think that should be the end of this discussion....

It's the man's last name for crying out loud.... it would be like saying Kim's pharmacy needs to shut down if in the future Kim became a deragotaory term...

no.
it shouldn't be shut down.
but the name should be changed.
don't you think?

[seoulone]

i agree...i think we can do this very easily and peacefully all they have to do is change their name.

[achtungbaby]

Undoubtedly African Americans consider their issues legitimate. When we discount their issues, it may be that we are unable to consider their perspective.Let's not get too sidetracked. This issue has nothing to do with African Americans so I'm not sure why they're even being discussed. We don't necessarily have to let the experiences of others -- whether good or bad -- define us or how we perceive, and vice versa.

Has anyone else had a chance to call? What were your experiences like? As I mentioned before, it's one thing if it's some exceedingly naive and ignorant mistake, quite another if employees are helping spread racism.

[kasia]

i can get a picture, but i'm kind of hesitant...i've already called the place twice and the guy sounded hostile...it would be better if someone else did it because i don't want him to be thinking i'm harassing him...i'm a 5'5" 100 lb girl too...but i could have my roommate do it possibly

maybe some people can pose as tourists. right now, though, we do *not* want to give them any warning that there may be a potential yw mafia attack. thus...maybe hold off on the phone calls?

[applehead]

maybe some people can pose as tourists. right now, though, we do *not* want to give them any warning that there may be a potential yw mafia attack. thus...maybe hold off on the phone calls?


i agree with that.
for them to get numerous phone calls
inquiring about the meaning of the business
might just annoy them.
(which isn't so bad)
but it would be nice if we hit them
with a big ole sumtin sumtin surpise
attack.

[BeTheReds]

i agree...i think we can do this very easily and peacefully all they have to do is change their name.


That isn't easy however. I know that Chink's Steaks is not as deep rooted like "Washington Redskins" is, but regardless, it is a well established name, that were it to change, they might lose business. I'm all for it changing if we can determine its origin to be racist.

If the origin is not racist, we should demand that a disclaimer go along with every item bearing the name.

Anyway, Spic&Span changed to Mop&Glo, and Spic&Span had nothing to do with Hispanic people. It used to mean "very clean", but people complained about the CURRENT meaning of "spic", and the connotation of having a floor cleaning product named what is currently a racial slur of Hispanic people, thus suggesting that Hispanic women fit a stereotypical mold of housecleaner, was not something the makers wanted to deal with.

Hopefully the owner of Chink's Steaks will wise up and change it himself.

[kasia]

That isn't easy however. I know that Chink's Steaks is not as deep rooted like "Washington Redskins" is, but regardless, it is a well established name, that were it to change, they might lose business. I'm all for it changing if we can determine its origin to be racist.

If the origin is not racist, we should demand that a disclaimer go along with every item bearing the name.

the philadelphia inquirer had an article on the restaurant stating that the name was derived from the owner's nickname - "Chink". the owner was jewish and had "chinky eyes". subsequent phone calls from seoulone to the restaurant employees seemed to confirm that story.

chink's steak is as offensive to me as gook's steak would be to you.

[BeTheReds]

chink's steak is as offensive to me as gook's steak would be to you.


1. I'm not Vietnamese.
2. I agree that it is offensive.

[kasia]

1. I'm not Vietnamese.
2. I agree that it is offensive.

i thought "gook" was a deragotory term for koreans as well.

[BeTheReds]

i thought "gook" was a deragotory term for koreans as well.


Some people claim that it has its origins in the Spanish-American war and was used to refer to Filipinos.

Others claim that it has its origins in the Korean war, being that "America" in Korean is "Me Gook!"

No matter where it has its origins, the current and most famous of meanings for the word that EVERYONE knows (from movies or what have you) is from its usage during the Vietnam war.

The word "gook" is still offensive to me in that it is an offensive word, but it doesn't hit home in the way something like "kimchi breath" or "juicy girl" would.

("Juicy girl" is the current epithet that U.S. servicemen like to use to refer to Korean women whom they have slept with).

[Danny]

no.
it shouldn't be shut down.
but the name should be changed.
don't you think?

Hmm, intersting question... should they change their name... if they do it willingly I would be fine with it... but if this was the guys name, or even nickname and did not derive from an asian stereotype and they do not want to change their name, I would not have a problem with it.

There was a cigarette shop in LA that closed down becuase of business issues back in the late 70's called the Cigarette shop, buy your fags here... it had been around for over 60 years and was a small mom and pop operation... cigarettes use to be called fags and the sign reflected the pop cultural name at the time. Gay groups protested slightly over the term, but it was not a major issue with them. The root of the problem was that the term was not being used in a manner that was inappropriate and did not come from a homosexual POV, it was the name fag being in a sign.

Being Asian, I do not find the name of the place offensive, becuae I do understand that it does not mean what dumb (the people who believe that it is a term brought on by becuase of the Asians in the community it was started in) people are attributing to it.

By changing these chain of stores, it is basically stating that , though no fault of the person who created it, his name or nickname has become offensive. How is that going to make his family feel, how wouild that make you feel if you start something and becuase of idiocy of others not related to you, your business name needs to get changed?

[Chester]

that's just cause you're hungry and selfish.In general, perhaps. I'm just not very offended. If it was the nickname of the founder, then I wouldn't assume that the naming of the place is made out of ill will. Do I think it's in poor taste? Yeah. But I think it reflects poorly on them more so than on "Chinks" (no apostrophe). As far as I'm concerned, if this little cheesesteak place is willing to live with the risk of being seen as racists, then that's their business.
anyhow, sambos was closed down.Except for the original, in Santa Barbara.

If y'all want some simple pictures of Chink's, you just need to turn to Google:
http://www.hollyeats.com/ChinksSteaks.htm

[spice]

what's the big deal? this entire issue is pretty trivial. it's a little mom&pop steak shop in philly named after the nickname of the jewish owner. if we're gonna spend time and energy organizing and protesting, don't we have much bigger fish to fry? yeah the name is stupid and in poor taste, but hey, as customers we can choose not to go there, right? i'm sure they're losing business over it.

[Tao]

what's the big deal? this entire issue is pretty trivial. it's a little mom&pop steak shop in philly named after the nickname of the jewish owner. if we're gonna spend time and energy organizing and protesting, don't we have much bigger fish to fry? yeah the name is stupid and in poor taste, but hey, as customers we can choose not to go there, right? i'm sure they're losing business over it.the deal is whether or not the nickname was created because of how "chinky" the owner looked. so we're trying to confirm whether that's the case or not. if it is the case i would say it's a big deal.

it's a big deal because ignorant non-asian folk will think that the word chink isn't offensive, and isn't on par with such terms as nigger or spic. so i for one think this is of great importance in educating and sensitizing the public.

[Leviticus]

Maybe this problem can be solved with a strategically placed molotov cocktail.

Are you sure your not Korean?

[achtungbaby]

The root of the problem was that the term was not being used in a manner that was inappropriate and did not come from a homosexual POV, it was the name fag being in a sign.
In light of the discrimination and hate that's associated with the word, how difficult was it for them to say, "Buy your cigarettes here"...? That's sorta like chanting "9/11" around mourners from the terrorist attack and then saying, "We're perfectly within our right to do this. We're not referring to the terrorist attack at all. We're celebrating blah blah blah."

So I think the root of the problem here is actually one of respect. I'm not going to drive my Dukes of Hazard car through the south screaming "Yee-hah!" while draped in a Confederate flag -- sure, that flag means so many other things to other people, but out of respect to Blacks living in the South and what that image of hate means, I wouldn't.

Being Asian, I do not find the name of the place offensive, becuae I do understand that it does not mean what dumb (the people who believe that it is a term brought on by becuase of the Asians in the community it was started in) people are attributing to it.
Well if you have some additional information or proof you'd like to share, by all means, lay it out on us. I just dont' know why you're firmly convinced that there's no way there aren't any racist implications with that name.

By changing these chain of stores, it is basically stating that , though no fault of the person who created it, his name or nickname has become offensive. How is that going to make his family feel, how wouild that make you feel if you start something and becuase of idiocy of others not related to you, your business name needs to get changed?
I think you're getting a little ahead of everyone. We're not planning on showing up at their doorsteps with torches lit. We just want more info first, what's wrong with that?

[achtungbaby]

i'm sure they're losing business over it.They seem to be doing fine, based on all the restaurant reviews I've read of the place. And it seems like there's more than one.

[achtungbaby]

Are you sure your not Korean?Didn't you know? Koreans employ a multitude of WMDs :wink:

[tapestrybabe]

i wonder what the racial make up of the employees are
and its customers?? like i wonder if there are any regular chinese ppl...
or asians in general that usually eat at this restaurant too...

i know i really wouldnt...

[kitty]

okay... could someone once and for all summarize what we know? The more I'm reading, the more I'm changing my stance on this issue... but I do feel like there's too many unknowns.

My impression: a mom-and-pop type store in the middle of nowhere, family business with a name passed down from the owner generations ago, possibly a last name.

What seems to be the case: a franchise with a confirmed report that the name is derived from 'chink', the racial epithet?

I'm just getting confused. Could someone please confirm SOMETHING about this place? (I'm much less inclined to start a campaign over a tiny store than I am over a franchise).

[younggiftedandblack]

("Juicy girl" is the current epithet that U.S. servicemen like to use to refer to Korean women whom they have slept with).

No it's not.

Not to go off topic, but that term has nothing to do with race, but moreso with a certain profession.

[SunWuKong]

i may sound a little militant when i say this, but to me, there are basically two cases:

1) the owner knows that the word is racially offensive - it's simple, he is choosing to be offensive to Asian people and therefore we should advocate for him to change the name.

2) the owner does not know that the word is racially offensive - in which case, he desperately needs to be educated that this word is very offensive to Asian people, and then be pushed to change the name.

in either case, i feel that he should be pushed to change the name.

[krome]

Anyway, Spic&Span changed to Mop&Glo, and Spic&Span had nothing to do with Hispanic people. It used to mean "very clean", but people complained about the CURRENT meaning of "spic", and the connotation of having a floor cleaning product named what is currently a racial slur of Hispanic people, thus suggesting that Hispanic women fit a stereotypical mold of housecleaner, was not something the makers wanted to deal with.
Even though it was not designed to be racist, they changed their name out of respect and sensitivity to Hispanics.

1) So, does it really matter so much if "Chink's" was originally intended as racist? (Even though it's hard to see how it couldn't be - and based on employee accounts - it was?) Clearly nowadays, the racial epithet is offensive - altho I assume it was back then too. But, the nonchalant unapologetic attitude of the employees there toward the alleged use of their store name is perhaps more disturbing than the allegation itself - and perhaps what ultimately needs to change. We get so sensitive over "n*gga" or "wigga," yet rigorously question "chink?"

2) Blacks & Hispanics don't seem to demand official statements admitting to a racist origin. Would we similarly demand one for N*gger's Steaks before protesting? Not saying we shouldn't - just bringing up apparent differences here. Maybe a Philly member can quietly visit the store and do some recon for us?

3) Why have no Asians protested before?

[Danny]

1) So, does it really matter so much if "Chink's" was originally intended as racist? (Even though it's hard to see how it couldn't be - and based on employee accounts - it was?)

I think that the people that renamed Spic n Span, did it becuase of a little pressure, but I also think that it would not have been a huge issue if they kept the same name... but yeah, i agree with you. If the company does understand that it is a negative thing and does have feelings along those lines and they change then great. But if they kept the name and it was in reference to the founder whose last name, or nickname was Chinks, then that also is fine.

Then again do not sit there and assume becuase an employee of the company (really a minimum wage worker of the company) believes one thing that the rest of the company believes the same thing.

[seoulone]

The owner told me if I looked at the newspaper clipping of the deceased owner, I would know why he was called "Chink."

Because he had "chink eyes."

Yes, this is a mom and pop store, but it is a mom and pop store in Philadelphia. Maybe it is in a smaller community of Philadelphia, but c'mon it's Philadelphia! The cheesesteaks are reputable...Philadelphia has a lot of history and gets a lot of tourists...Maybe there isn't as much glory as you would find in a big corporation? Or maybe you don't like targeting small businesses? If you are against it you are against it, but do you really want people going around thinking that "chink" is an appropiate nickname for someone who has supposedly "chinky eyes"? This is not about attacking anyone it is about education and empowerment.

[Danny]

The owner told me if I looked at the newspaper clipping of the deceased owner, I would know why he was called "Chink."

Because he had "chink eyes."

Now if that was the case, then yes, it would be wrong and should be changed. I think someone said that it was his last name earlier... if that is the case, then no, it should not be changed....

[seoulone]

The August 2002 Philadelphia Inquirer states, "The restaurant's monicker is the late founder's nickname."

and in another August Issue: "If you are from the Northeast, perhaps you were lucky enough to be weaned at Chink's on Torresdale Avenue, the charming old-time soda shop that, despite its un-PC name, serves one of the city's best traditional steaks."

[deez nuts]

that's just cause you're hungry and selfish.

kinda like fat bastard?

"Get in mah belly!"

[krome]

I think someone said that it was his last name earlier
Lol, nobody did! I think you actually started that rumor! :biggrin:

But, no, Chink is not a last name, nor is N*gger, Kike, Wetback or other ethnic slurs. C'mon, let's get real people... :rolleyes: I swear mobilizing Asians is like trying to herd cats, lol! Let's be cautious, but not to the point of paralysis by analysis...

[Banana]

I think I should write my thesis on Asian American apathy towards their own issues and how society is exploiting the fractured community and can't speak as one. :tongue:

In addition, I keep hearing about bigger fish to fry. What fish? What else is going on at the moment?

[krome]

Yeah, but who would read it? Uh, who cares if we're apathetic?! :biggrin: Not us! :tongue:

Do you think we often demand/expect less respect as a race cuz we have low self-esteem, perhaps?

[applehead]

In addition, I keep hearing about bigger fish to fry. What fish? What else is going on at the moment?

yes. exactly.
what else is going on?
enlighten us.
we'll deal with that too, then.

[krome]

yes. exactly.
what else is going on?
enlighten us.
we'll deal with that too, then.
Uh, hello? Do you even read these boards? Stuff like this. (http://forums.yellowworld.org/showthread.php?p=200752#post200752) C'mon, 9 shopping days till Xmas! Let's not get sidetracked here!

[applehead]

Uh, hello? Do you eve read these boards? Stuff like this. (http://forums.yellowworld.org/showthread.php?p=200752#post200752) C'mon, 9 shopping days till Xmas! Let's not get sidetracked here!


what the hell are you talking about?

[Banana]

1.) Someone said that we shouldn't pay attention to this issue.

2.) Why? Because, apparently, there are bigger things to protest that are blatently racist.

3.) I asked what other things were going on.

4.) Krome said that post in jest. He said that we're too concerned with other issues. Those other issues including shopping. It was a sarcastic post.

5.) I'm still trying to find out what is more important that is going on. Not a sarcastic post. I really DO want to know what else is going on that is racist against the Asian American community at the moment which is more important than this.

[applehead]

sarcasm.
umm. okay.
good one.

anyway,
i, too, am curious as to what else
she/he is referring to here:


what's the big deal? this entire issue is pretty trivial. it's a little mom&pop steak shop in philly named after the nickname of the jewish owner. if we're gonna spend time and energy organizing and protesting, don't we have much bigger fish to fry? yeah the name is stupid and in poor taste, but hey, as customers we can choose not to go there, right? i'm sure they're losing business over it.

[spice]

why is the word "chink" so bad anyways? you're getting all worked up over a word. it's just a word! a word has power only it you let it. look at gay people. they reclaimed the word "queer" and now there's even a TV show starring 5 gay men who call themselves queer. and black people use the word "niggaz" all the time. i even hear them call each other that word. don't you think you're being too politically correct? the store is a nickname for an old jewish guy. sorry but old people aren't as politically correct as we are. are you gonna shut down a man's business over something so trivial? even some black people still call themsleves "negros".

where i go to university, there's a popular cafe called the "Chinese Laundy Cafe". some people on campus got pissed about the name, but you know what, it really used to be a chinese laundry there. and yeah, if you want to mobilize there's lots of other more important issues out there. why get so worked up over a dumb sign? if they got the best cheese steaks in philly, i'll probably eat one.

btw, i think family businesses are better than franchises. if you really want to protest injustice, maybe you should try to shut down mcdonalds.

[rice cracker]

why is the word "chink" so bad anyways? you're getting all worked up over a word. it's just a word! a word has power only it you let it. look at gay people. they reclaimed the word "queer" and now there's even a TV show starring 5 gay men who call themselves queer. and black people use the word "niggaz" all the time. i even hear them call each other that word. don't you think you're being too politically correct? the store is a nickname for an old jewish guy. sorry but old people aren't as politically correct as we are. are you gonna shut down a man's business over something so trivial? even some black people still call themsleves "negros".


So if a white person calls a black person a nigga, is that ok? If a straight person calls a gay person a queer, is that ok? They may have taken the word and made it their own, but people outside the group will still use it in a derogatory manner. You may not be offended, and that's fine, but if someone ever called me a chink you'd better be damned sure I'd retaliate. And besides, smiling and laughing at the word kind of makes you look like you agree that it's ok to call us that.

[xdlin22]

last time someone called me a chink, he got his ass beaten and his eyes poke

[SunWuKong]

why is the word "chink" so bad anyways? you're getting all worked up over a word. it's just a word! a word has power only it you let it. look at gay people. they reclaimed the word "queer" and now there's even a TV show starring 5 gay men who call themselves queer. and black people use the word "niggaz" all the time. i even hear them call each other that word. don't you think you're being too politically correct? the store is a nickname for an old jewish guy. sorry but old people aren't as politically correct as we are. are you gonna shut down a man's business over something so trivial? even some black people still call themsleves "negros".

do you always refer to other people's opinions before you have your own?

besides, your analogy with "nigga" is faulty logic anyway because black people are using it on themselves. the last time i checked, Chink's Steaks is not owned by a Chinese or Asian person. and in case you did not know, plenty of black people have a problem with other black people using "nigga" on each other. if Chink's Steaks was owned by a Chinese person, or hell, especially if it was owned by a Chinese person, i'd have a problem with it.

[tazadar]

why is the word "chink" so bad anyways? you're getting all worked up over a word. it's just a word!
"Chink" has a connotation of inferiority whereas whites - the source of the word - are the superior race. That's racist. "Nigger" means the same thing too.

a word has power only it you let it.
Power comes when you get yourself a backbone and stand up for your rights.

look at gay people. they reclaimed the word "queer" and now there's even a TV show starring 5 gay men who call themselves queer.
Would it be appropriate to call them "faggots?" Your analogy is flawed. You are comparing racism to homophobia - not the same thing.

and black people use the word "niggaz" all the time.
Why didn't you spelt it "nigger?"

i even hear them call each other that word.
Some blacks don't like how other blacks are calling each other "nigga." Are you suggesting Asians should be calling each other "chink?"

don't you think you're being too politically correct? the store is a nickname for an old jewish guy. sorry but old people aren't as politically correct as we are. are you gonna shut down a man's business over something so trivial?
They don't have to shutdown, just change the business name out of respect for sensitivity to Asians.

even some black people still call themsleves "negros".
Why don't they call themselves "niggers?"

where i go to university, there's a popular cafe called the "Chinese Laundy Cafe". some people on campus got pissed about the name, but you know what, it really used to be a chinese laundry there. and yeah, if you want to mobilize there's lots of other more important issues out there.
If that's the case, I don't see anything wrong about this.

if they got the best cheese steaks in philly, i'll probably eat one.
How is that relevant to the issue?

btw, i think family businesses are better than franchises. if you really want to protest injustice, maybe you should try to shut down mcdonalds.
If McDonald's is being racist, we should protest.

[Banana]

Just so you know, there is a big difference between "Nigga/Niggaz" and "Nigger."


So, you're basically saying we should tolerate a racial slur just because it's a word? A racial epitaph is used to dehumanize and subjugate someone. It's designed to make you lower than they are. When this is done, it is far easier for one to violate people in different and often violent ways.

I've already been very tolerant about this word being used. I'm never up in arms when people use the phrase "Chink in the armor" because it has never been used to describe a Chinese or Asian person at all. However, in this case, the word is used to describe a racial feature found on Asian people.

Also, as far as I know, the word "queer" started off as a word to describe a homosexual individual which was hijacked by gay bashers to be used as a hateful word. They just most recently took it back. How come you don't ask why gays haven't taken the word "faggot?" Or, "Ass pirate" for that matter? These words started off as hateful.

Try to pull your blinders off and see the big picture please.

Like I said:

1.) What else should we be directing our attention towards if not this? What else is going on that is more important?

2.) From what I see, blacks are quick to declare something racist if it is. Asians are too busy defending it, looking for the really minute details, origins of words, scenario comparisons, being apathetic, or saying it's so small that we shouldn't care.

[applehead]

why is the word "chink" so bad anyways? you're getting all worked up over a word. um. hello.
chink is a racist term.
it's just a word! a word has power only it you let it.
exactly. that's why some people
want to have to name of the store changed.

look at gay people. they reclaimed the word "queer" and now there's even a TV show starring 5 gay men who call themselves queer.
well, that term isn't racial
and black people use the word "niggaz" all the time. i even hear them call each other that word.
not all black people find the use of that word
appropriate in ANY manner whatsoever.
don't you think you're being too politically correct? the store is a nickname for an old jewish guy. yeah, a nickname for an old jewish guy who has "chinky" eyes. so what?
i don't see how that makes anything better.

sorry but old people aren't as politically correct as we are. are you gonna shut down a man's business over something so trivial?
so does that excuse all old people for being racist?
as trivial as someone using a racially offensive term?
yes.

where i go to university, there's a popular cafe called the "Chinese Laundy Cafe". some people on campus got pissed about the name, but you know what, it really used to be a chinese laundry there.
what if it was chink's laundry cafe.
does that make a difference?
and yeah, if you want to mobilize there's lots of other more important issues out there. why get so worked up over a dumb sign? if they got the best cheese steaks in philly, i'll probably eat one.
again, can you elaborate on the other important issues there
might be.
maybe we can do something about that too.
btw, i think family businesses are better than franchises. if you really want to protest injustice, maybe you should try to shut down mcdonalds.
let's not get into mcdonald's.
i mean, this is a forum for asian american issues.
i would hardly consider the corrupt business practices of
the mcdonald corporation an asian american issue.

[ChinaLama]

What else is going on?

Just to point to 2 major YW campaigns that aren't resolved yet:

http://anna.yellowworld.org
http://removecoble.yellowworld.org

[applehead]

other issues that we haven't dealt with.
is what i meant.
and plus, i don't even think spice
is aware of the anna guo and coble cases.

[SunWuKong]

if they got the best cheese steaks in philly, i'll probably eat one.
How is that relevant to the issue?


i don't know. maybe he wants to demonstrate to us how unracist the word "chink" is and how much power he has over the word by supporting a business that uses the word in its name.

[Fireblade]

Useage of the word chink is inappropiate because of the racist history behind it.

Focusing on a stupid restaurant when you don't even live there?
Idiotic. Unless you proceed to commit some sort of action to shut down the place or change it's name, why bother?

Lastly, we can all bitch about the subject however we like to. =)

thank you... just my two cents.

[spice]

my point was i think because our generation is younger, maybe we can try a different tactic. rather than play "word police", let's follow the gay example.... they managed to take back the word "queer" and make it a positive thing. now when people think "queer" they think positive stuff like good dresser, fashionable, stylish, nice interior designer, very cultured and refined etc...

around my campus, i hear the gay people call each other faggot dyke and homo jokingly and affectionately....see it has a positive meaning for them! maybe we should call each other chink, jap, gook, halfie, etc... and turn it into something playful or positive. that way, when white people or whoever throw that word at us, it won't hurt so much. like when you call white people, "whitey" or "honky" they laugh at it. see it's all psychological...

also, if people can't think of any injustice done to asian americans in this country to get worked up over except for "chink's steaks", maybe that just shows that things aren't so bad for us as it is for some other people... we should be happy about that!

[xdlin22]

the work is offensive period.

[xdlin22]

The word i mean

[Banana]

the work is offensive period.


Haha. Nice.

It's much easier to portray the word as it really is. A racial slur.

Than to wait 40 years for it to turn into an endearing word.

Giving a word isn't as easy as you think. Like I said, the word "nigga" is far different than "nigger." Additionally, blacks can use it with each other but they're up in arms when non-blacks refer to them with it. It's not as easy as you think.

By the way, Spice, how old are you?

17? 18?

[kasia]

my point was i think because our generation is younger, maybe we can try a different tactic. rather than play "word police", let's follow the gay example.... they managed to take back the word "queer" and make it a positive thing. now when people think "queer" they think positive stuff like good dresser, fashionable, stylish, nice interior designer, very cultured and refined etc...

around my campus, i hear the gay people call each other faggot dyke and homo jokingly and affectionately....see it has a positive meaning for them! maybe we should call each other chink, jap, gook, halfie, etc... and turn it into something playful or positive. that way, when white people or whoever throw that word at us, it won't hurt so much. like when you call white people, "whitey" or "honky" they laugh at it. see it's all psychological...

also, if people can't think of any injustice done to asian americans in this country to get worked up over except for "chink's steaks", maybe that just shows that things aren't so bad for us as it is for some other people... we should be happy about that!

sure. we all know what you're talking about. but the restaurant wasn't opened by a chinese person. only the group in question can adopt the derogatory term. it's not like a straight person can decide when the gay community should adopt the term 'queer' or a white person the term 'nigger.' it will be up to *us* to decide how and when we should adopt the word 'chink'. now may not be the time. and allowing the restaurant to keep its name (which clearly had a racist origin) is certainly not the method. i mean, seriously, what kind of statement would that be? "we previously believed that the term 'chink' was racist, but now, to empower ourselves, we have decided to let your restaurant keep its name." pretty damn empowering, eh?

[kasia]

Haha. Nice.

It's much easier to portray the word as it really is. A racial slur.

Than to wait 40 years for it to turn into an endearing word.

By the way, Spice, how old are you?

17?

no personal attacks.

[seoulone]

Racial slurs are terribly hurtful to our community," said George M. Ong, OCA National President. "They have been used to dehumanize people of color and remind us of a shameful but very real part of American history. Asian Pacific Americans have made huge strides in the struggle for equality, but the use of such names devalues our progress and illustrates how much further we have to go. It is imperative that all Americans get behind this effort to change discriminatory names so we can put such blatant discrimination behind us."

[moJo]

my point was i think because our generation is younger, maybe we can try a different tactic. rather than play "word police", let's follow the gay example.... they managed to take back the word "queer" and make it a positive thing. now when people think "queer" they think positive stuff like good dresser, fashionable, stylish, nice interior designer, very cultured and refined etc...
it's not "positive" when hate crimes are still committed against gay people. it's nice that you think that "queer" is universally acccepted in a positive manner, but i think you're being too optimistic. there are tons of homophobic people out there who would disagree with your definition of "queer". same deal with the word "nigger" and racists.
like when you call white people, "whitey" or "honky" they laugh at it. see it's all psychological...perhaps that's the difference between those who are the majority and have the majority of influence and power, and those who are minorities and lack influence and power.
also, if people can't think of any injustice done to asian americans in this country to get worked up over except for "chink's steaks", maybe that just shows that things aren't so bad for us as it is for some other people... we should be happy about that!
happy? nah, i don't think so.

[rice cracker]

my point was i think because our generation is younger, maybe we can try a different tactic. rather than play "word police", let's follow the gay example.... they managed to take back the word "queer" and make it a positive thing. now when people think "queer" they think positive stuff like good dresser, fashionable, stylish, nice interior designer, very cultured and refined etc...

around my campus, i hear the gay people call each other faggot dyke and homo jokingly and affectionately....see it has a positive meaning for them! maybe we should call each other chink, jap, gook, halfie, etc... and turn it into something playful or positive. that way, when white people or whoever throw that word at us, it won't hurt so much. like when you call white people, "whitey" or "honky" they laugh at it. see it's all psychological...

Haha, tell this to my dad. He calls them queers and fags too. As many people use the word queer affectionately there are ten times more that mean it as an insult or epithet. Oh, and Dad uses racial slurs too. Trust me when I say he means nothing positive when he uses them.

also, if people can't think of any injustice done to asian americans in this country to get worked up over except for "chink's steaks", maybe that just shows that things aren't so bad for us as it is for some other people... we should be happy about that!

Just because they're not being mentioned in this particular thread doesn't mean that things like hate crimes don't happen.

[seoulone]

What else is going on?

Just to point to 2 major YW campaigns that aren't resolved yet:

http://anna.yellowworld.org
http://removecoble.yellowworld.org

Thanks for the links but ever heard of multi-tasking?

[Banana]

Thanks for the links but ever heard of multi-tasking?

Damn you, you beat me to it.

Those issues are also mad old. True, time can't hide justice but there are newer issues that need to be looked into as well.

[ChinaLama]

Thanks for the links but ever heard of multi-tasking?

Just answering a question, thanks.

[spice]

you know what? i've been called chink, jap, gook, halfie before by white people and to be honest, it feels the same as if someone calls me a retard, asshole, or butt-ugly. sure, i don't like being insulted but that's what people do when they fight. it's human nature. i don't disagree that the word "chink" can be used as an insult but people insult each other all the time. sometimes i get into fights with my sister and i call her a bitch or an old hag. does that make me a misogynist? why give this word so much power? when someone calls me "chink" i don't feel de-humanized or remember some painful history, i just think the dude is a white trash asshole and i'll probably call him the worst slur i can think of and maybe duke it out.

yeah, i'm sure there are old people out there that still use these words in a racist way, but they'll all be dead in another 20 years anyways. so, in the meantime, maybe we should think of positive strategies to re-appropriate these words and create something positive like the gays are trying to do rather than do the same old thang.

[rice cracker]

yeah, i'm sure there are old people out there that still use these words in a racist way, but they'll all be dead in another 20 years anyways. so, in the meantime, maybe we should think of positive strategies to re-appropriate these words and create something positive like the gays are trying to do rather than do the same old thang.

Oh man, where do you live that only old people use racial slurs? I live in Minnesota, I have people in my age and class group that think that way.

[seoulone]

you know what? i've been called chink, jap, gook, halfie before by white people and to be honest, it feels the same as if someone calls me a retard, asshole, or butt-ugly. sure, i don't like being insulted but that's what people do when they fight. it's human nature. i don't disagree that the word "chink" can be used as an insult but people insult each other all the time. sometimes i get into fights with my sister and i call her a bitch or an old hag. does that make me a misogynist? why give this word so much power? when someone calls me "chink" i don't feel de-humanized or remember some painful history, i just think the dude is a white trash asshole and i'll probably call him the worst slur i can think of and maybe duke it out.

yeah, i'm sure there are old people out there that still use these words in a racist way, but they'll all be dead in another 20 years anyways. so, in the meantime, maybe we should think of positive strategies to re-appropriate these words and create something positive like the gays are trying to do rather than do the same old thang.

You're very, very lucky to not feel pain and hurt.

[spice]

i still don't get why you guys are so worked up about this word.... why let it get to you so much? it's just like any other insult. sure, if someone disses you however, then you fight back - call them nasty names and beat them up.

anyways, whatever.... we're getting side-tracked here. go back to talking bout your boycott of the mom&pop philly shop.

[SunWuKong]

my point was i think because our generation is younger, maybe we can try a different tactic. rather than play "word police", let's follow the gay example.... they managed to take back the word "queer" and make it a positive thing. now when people think "queer" they think positive stuff like good dresser, fashionable, stylish, nice interior designer, very cultured and refined etc...

do you not understand? multiple people have said this before. it's not a Chinese or Asian person that owns the store. do you seriously think that you, assuming you're straight, can go up to a group of gay people and call them queer without them being offended? or how about this, try going up to a group of black guys and calling them niggas.

around my campus, i hear the gay people call each other faggot dyke and homo jokingly and affectionately....see it has a positive meaning for them! maybe we should call each other chink, jap, gook, halfie, etc... and turn it into something playful or positive. that way, when white people or whoever throw that word at us, it won't hurt so much. like when you call white people, "whitey" or "honky" they laugh at it. see it's all psychological...

no thank you. even if you're Chinese, if you call me chink, i will be offended. however, feel free to identify yourself with and freely use the words "nigga" and "queer".

also, if people can't think of any injustice done to asian americans in this country to get worked up over except for "chink's steaks", maybe that just shows that things aren't so bad for us as it is for some other people... we should be happy about that!

doesn't mean we can't work to make things even better. let's not kid ourselves, it's not perfectly equal, and it's worth it to push for more equality.

[krome]

i still don't get why you guys are so worked up about this word.... why let it get to you so much?
Cuz we have self-esteem and demand some respect? How can you not take it as an insult - the way it was intended? Over-tolerant "Hop-Sing" attitudes like yours are why these things keep happening to us. "Ah so, Mr. Whitey, me so solly.." *bow, bow* Did you ever stop to think that bullies actually RESPECT those who stand up to them and only DISRESPECT those who cower down?

If this were N*gger's Steaks, I can guarantee you nobody in the black (or white) community would be wringing their hands and second-guessing this no-brainer. If it was Chinese Steaks, I wouldn't necessarily have a problem with it. We're not being unreasonable here. But it's CHINK'S STEAKS for g0d's sakes!

[Banana]

This is another effect I think I should write about in my thesis.

It seems that since blacks were treated brutally during the civil rights era, they know what it's like to actually see racism. As such, getting sprayed with high pressure firehoses and getting ravaged by attack dogs made them aware as to what racism really is and to combat it whenever it pops up regardless if anyone else thinks it's racist.

Asian Americans, it seems, seem to feel that it's not real racism until it involves some type of physical injury which allows society to repeatedly disrespect the community. It's actually quite interesting.

[kasia]

Thanks for the links but ever heard of multi-tasking?

save the sarcasm. most of the work for the campaigns is done by yw mods who all have either full time jobs or are busy studying for finals and midterms in college/grad school. you're not aware of the work that goes on behind the scenes, and trust me, it's more than just making phone calls and writing letters to other organizations. i don't appreciate it when you minimize the work performed by my colleagues.

during both of those aforementioned campaigns, some of us pulled all-nighters building and updating the site, writing damn press releases, scripting letters for others to just copy and paste, entering into negotiations, etc. etc. so instead of criticizing us for not "multi-tasking", take a look at the rest of the crowd that wants to just complain and not do anything. most people will bring an issue to our attention, but how many will stick around for the long haul? most are willing to make phone calls to complain, maybe even write letters, stand in front of the stores and shout, but when it comes to writing an actual publishable article, running through the petitions with thousands of signatures and checking ip's, entering in thousands of signatures one-by-one into the database, etc., most people just seem to disappear. all's left are the mods and a handful of our mafia members.

[SunWuKong]

Cuz we have self-esteem and demand some respect? How can you not take it as an insult - the way it was intended? Over-tolerant "Hop-Sing" attitudes like yours are why these things keep happening to us. "Ah so, Mr. Whitey, me so solly.." *bow, bow* Did you ever stop to think that bullies actually RESPECT those who stand up to them and only DISRESPECT those who cower down?

ok krome. no need to attack anyone.

[Napoleon Chynamite]

i may sound a little militant when i say this, but to me, there are basically two cases:

1) the owner knows that the word is racially offensive - it's simple, he is choosing to be offensive to Asian people and therefore we should advocate for him to change the name.

2) the owner does not know that the word is racially offensive - in which case, he desperately needs to be educated that this word is very offensive to Asian people, and then be pushed to change the name.

in either case, i feel that he should be pushed to change the name.

I agree with this post more than any other post in this sea of posting regarding this issue.

[seoulone]

save the sarcasm. most of the work for the campaigns is done by yw mods who all have either full time jobs or are busy studying for finals and midterms in college/grad school. you're not aware of the work that goes on behind the scenes, and trust me, it's more than just making phone calls and writing letters to other organizations. i don't appreciate it when you minimize the work performed by my colleagues.

during both of those aforementioned campaigns, some of us pulled all-nighters building and updating the site, writing damn press releases, scripting letters for others to just copy and paste, entering into negotiations, etc. etc. so instead of criticizing us for not "multi-tasking", take a look at the rest of the crowd that wants to just complain and not do anything. most people will bring an issue to our attention, but how many will stick around for the long haul? most are willing to make phone calls to complain, maybe even write letters, stand in front of the stores and shout, but when it comes to writing an actual publishable article, running through the petitions with thousands of signatures and checking ip's, entering in thousands of signatures one-by-one into the database, etc., most people just seem to disappear. all's left are the mods and a handful of our mafia members.

kasia (and other mods)...Don't take it personally, it wasn't meant to be that way. I'm not trying to put down your efforts. I work full-time as well, except it's volunteer based with shit pay. Yeah we have to pick and choose our battles, but the restaurant is called "Chink's Steaks" for God's sake. What I DON'T want is for this whole thing to be ignored.

[spice]

first of all, if anyone disses me, sure, i'll take it up with them. like i said, an ass-whupping will be in order. it's just that i don't think being called "chink" is any worse than being called "asshole" or any other insult. sorry, but it just doesn't hurt me as deeply and psychologically as it seems to some other people here....

as for blacks, i think they have it much worse than we do. we don't have the legacy of slavery, no one turned hoses on us, etc... i'm not saying there isn't racism against asians, but, be honest, we don't have it as bad as black people. rather than get competitive and defensive about it, maybe we should count ourselves lucky.

i think kasia made a really good point. organizing a massive protest campaign is a lot of work and effort. i just don't think this little steak shop in philly is worth it...

[tapestrybabe]

[Originally Posted by SeoulOne]:Thanks for the links but ever heard of multi-tasking?save the sarcasm. most of the work for the campaigns is done by yw mods who all have either full time jobs or are busy studying for finals and midterms in college/grad school. you're not aware of the work that goes on behind the scenes, and trust me, it's more than just making phone calls and writing letters to other organizations. i don't appreciate it when you minimize the work performed by my colleagues. maybe its just me...
but i dont think she wanted to come across as sarcastic...
i think she cares about this issue...
and believes that something can be done about it...
while at the same time working on the other issues as well...

EDIT: she already reponded in her defense...

[kasia]

but the restaurant is called "Chink's Steaks" for God's sake. What I DON'T want is for this whole thing to be ignored.

i'm with you there.

[applehead]

first of all, if anyone disses me, sure, i'll take it up with them. like i said, an ass-whupping will be in order. it's just that i don't think being called "chink" is any worse than being called "asshole" or any other insult. sorry, but it just doesn't hurt me as deeply and psychologically as it seems to some other people here....
that's fine with me.
were you ever called a chink by
someone who wasn't asian?


as for blacks, i think they have it much worse than we do. we don't have the legacy of slavery, no one turned hoses on us, etc... i'm not saying there isn't racism against asians, but, be honest, we don't have it as bad as black people. rather than get competitive and defensive about it, maybe we should count ourselves lucky.


let's not even go there.

[kasia]

i think kasia made a really good point. organizing a massive protest campaign is a lot of work and effort. i just don't think this little steak shop in philly is worth it...


while i don't agree with you that it's not worth it, your post made me come up with a new idea. maybe we should do a search for all of the restaurants and stores in the u.s. that incorporate the word 'chink' or something of similar nature. we could then do the just about the same amount of work but target all of them.

[deez nuts]

oooh the slavery card.

/(>_<)\

**covers ears**

[seoulone]

I don't think people of color should be putting themselves on a hierarchy of who has it worse and who has it better.

This isn't a battle against some little steak shop...this is about racial slurs and what they imply: the damage they do, the damage they will do if people think they are appropiate, the history of racism behind them, the pain and sorrow that accompanies them, etc.

[krome]

ok krome. no need to attack anyone.
Well, I really meant it more as an attack on that type of attitude that he just happens to embody - than him personally per se.

It would be a good idea to do a search and make this a class-action if there happens to be more - although I would be surprised if they were. Well, not that surprised, lol.

[rice cracker]

I don't think people of color should be putting themselves on a hierarchy of who has it worse.

I agree.

[spice]

i only brought that up because a few other posters mentioned black reaction to racism vs asian reaction to racism. sure, all racism is wrong, but i just don't feel that i've been treated as bad as black people that's all.... maybe that's why it's hard for me to get all worked up over this issue...

i think kasia has a good idea about broadening this campaign into something national-wide. i just don't want to be part of something that targets a small family-run business owned by an old jewish guy. it would be better if we could find a multi-national or famous chain to protest.

[Tao]

i only brought that up because a few other posters mentioned black reaction to racism vs asian reaction to racism. sure, all racism is wrong, but i just don't feel that i've been treated as bad as black people that's all.... maybe that's why it's hard for me to get all worked up over this issue...
if you don't feel offended that non-asians are advertising a store with the name "chink" because the owner's nickname was derived from him looking "chinky" that's fine.
thing that irks me is that you are trying to convince us that the word chink isn't offensive? And you're drawing out this long tedious debate about how we shouldn't let such a word get to us and so on and so forth. I'm tired of this sidetrack. If you don't find it offensive fine, more power to you, you're a bigger man than i am. Thing is most people on this site would find the word offensive, and in my opinion with damn well cause too.

that being said, kasie if you guys need an extra pair of legs for petitions or letters or phone calls and stuff, i'd be more than willing to help.

I'm tired of all this non-sense talk about how much better i've got it compared to other minorites. injustice is injustice, ridicule is ridicule, end of story.

If there is anything i can do, feel free. you can reach me on aim or through meena or steve.

[kitty]

I know this is from a few pages back but:

spice, word is how we shape thoughts. While I do have reservations about launching full force into this campaign (for reasons other than the racist-ness of the restaurant name), how do we think but using words?

Most people have inner monologues. They think through identification and labels. When you walk down the street, you will usually identify what you're seeing (to yourself) in a series of words. You see a big object with four wheels... you think "van". But if I were to try and describe to you the same scene, and I use "S.U.V.", you'll get a different mental picture than what is actually there. So really, language plays a huge part of how we see the world and work within it.

One could argue that, similarly, the only way to fight racist *thought* is to fight against racist *language*. By changing the words that are used to refer to certain things, you can change the way people think about them in their heads. (i.e. trying to associate the word 'Chinese' to certain people of Asian descent rathe than the word 'chink')

[Green_Circle]

I don't think people of color should be putting themselves on a hierarchy of who has it worse and who has it better.

This isn't a battle against some little steak shop...this is about racial slurs and what they imply: the damage they do, the damage they will do if people think they are appropiate, the history of racism behind them, the pain and sorrow that accompanies them, etc.

Seoul, I think you're right. It's all about what the word embodies.

[krome]

Funny thing is, dem white folks at Chink's Steaks ain't debating the "possible" racist offensiveness of "chink." That's likely a given. I mean, I highly doubt they address their Chinese patrons (if any) as Chinks. So, do they realize it's a racist usage of a racial epithet? Likely yes. But, is it wrong? Well, nobody's complained yet...

Q: How did this slip thru the cracks for so long? Is it just so blatant that it's unbelievable and people assume there must be a good explanation? But what possibly one could there be, lol?

[Chris]

as for blacks, i think they have it much worse than we do. we don't have the legacy of slavery, no one turned hoses on us, etc... i'm not saying there isn't racism against asians, but, be honest, we don't have it as bad as black people. rather than get competitive and defensive about it, maybe we should count ourselves lucky.

Hmm should I go into Chinatown and Filipino treatment in the early 20th century and the Japanese Internment camps, oh let us not forget the treatment during the railroad days?

I can start with those topics off the bat.

[kitty]

i think kasia has a good idea about broadening this campaign into something national-wide. i just don't want to be part of something that targets a small family-run business owned by an old jewish guy. it would be better if we could find a multi-national or famous chain to protest.

I would like to see a more nation-wide relevance to this campaign. I think it would be good to turn this into an awareness campaign maybe... but as it stands... (I hate to say this) but a local, mom&pop restaurant has little relevance to me, in that it changing it's name will not do much to better my local community.

I hate to be the one to voice this, but what is the relevance to someone not in philly? why would someone in texas care about this issue?

If we could somehow make this campaign more broad and nationally relevant, I think it would be more worthwhile and positive.

[kitty]

Cuz we have self-esteem and demand some respect? How can you not take it as an insult - the way it was intended? Over-tolerant "Hop-Sing" attitudes like yours are why these things keep happening to us. "Ah so, Mr. Whitey, me so solly.." *bow, bow* Did you ever stop to think that bullies actually RESPECT those who stand up to them and only DISRESPECT those who cower down?

If this were N*gger's Steaks, I can guarantee you nobody in the black (or white) community would be wringing their hands and second-guessing this no-brainer. If it was Chinese Steaks, I wouldn't necessarily have a problem with it. We're not being unreasonable here. But it's CHINK'S STEAKS for g0d's sakes!

dumb question: why do you put the asterisk in the n-word but not in the c-word?

[kitty]

Thanks for the links but ever heard of multi-tasking?

I dunno... is it better to have many projects that are half-finished or a few completed projects?

[seoulone]

I oppose all names of places, objects, things, etc. that contain racial slurs. I am opposed to the football team Redskins, Squaw Mountain, Jap Road, Nips crackers and candy, etc. If we move forward, it should be stated that we oppose all of these things. Please note: Don't even argue with me that the little snacks we refer to as "crackers" should have their name changed, because crackers have been called crackers before the word became a racial slur. And we live in a society that says white=right...white=good...white=better...white=ri ght.

Spice: Maybe you as an individual haven't encountered a lot of racism, but Asians as a whole have. And myself as an individual has had my fair share of racism. As a Korean adoptee, growing up in a practically all white community, with white parents, and being called racial slurs-there is a deep, painful history with those words.

kittygirl: It is better to have a lot of projects completed, but we have to all work together, even if we can only do a little. Philadelphia is very historical and has a lot of history=lots of tourism...think about that. I agree we need to make this nation-wide, because it isn't about the store, it's about the concept.

[krome]

dumb question: why do you put the asterisk in the n-word but not in the c-word?
Honestly, even I'm socially brainwashed to think "chink" is somehow more acceptable than "n*gger." Yes, society and I both need to change.

That, plus net filters catch n*gger (but not chink - which has alternate non-racist meanings) and I'm Chinese, not black.

[deez nuts]

spice from what i've read so far, you sure you're in the right forum?

blackplanet is that way ------------------->

[kitty]

kittygirl: It is better to have a lot of projects completed, but we have to all work together, even if we can only do a little. Philadelphia is very historical and has a lot of history=lots of tourism...think about that. I agree we need to make this nation-wide, because it isn't about the store, it's about the concept.

I agree... I just think the reason why i'm apprehensive is that we can all work together if we concentrate on fewer projects, and do them better.

[seoulone]

Here are some things I think we should do, to those interested:
- someone should go to the restaurant and take a picture of the news clipping
- I will continue to contact organizations, but I find it important that others do the same. I would like non-Asian groups involved and I cannot stress this enough
- a newspaper or magazine article
- continue spreading the word
- contact student groups in Philadelphia AND nation-wide
- an official interview with the owner
- a letter to the restaurant stating that we oppose their name and the concept behind it
- a letter to Mayor Street

I don't think we need a petition if we can get enough organizations involved. This should definetly be nation-wide...This is not a personal att