The model minority
2 min read · May 23, 2025
New Power Labs
Pointing to the success of Asian-Canadians as proof that equity is earned through hard work and assimilation is misleading—and harmful.
It ignores the economic disparities within Asian communities. The wealth gap among Asian sub-communities is significant.
It also reinforces a dangerous myth: that systemic discrimination can be overcome through hard work alone. That if one group can “make it,” others should be able to do the same.
However, diverse communities experience discrimination in very different ways. Black communities cannot hard-work their way out of the legacy of enslavement, segregation, and systemic exclusion. Indigenous Peoples cannot hard-work their way through centuries of displacement, land theft, and broken treaties.
Even Asian communities haven’t “overcome” racism. Hate crimes surged during the pandemic. Barriers persist in leadership, media, and boardrooms.
Celebrating resilience without dismantling barriers is deflection.
Narinder
New Power Labs
Like what you’re reading? Subscribe to get weekly Equity Shots in your inbox.
