I asked ChatGPT to evaluate the proclamation on Asian Pacific Heritage Month given by President Biden recently and when President Trump was in Office. Here were my instructions: Specifically the quality and range of facts to show Asian Americans are valued in America as equals, the specific facts offered as evidence of inclusion – whether these facts indicate depth and scale of what needs to be done to address the history of discrimination against Asian Americans, the tone of the proclamation of viewing Asian Americans as equals and not in a patronizing or diminishing tone, the acknowledgement beyond statements on value of Asian Americans that they represent a $1.3 trillion plus economy in America making great contributions across America and the mindset of respect given to this valuable community in America. When you compare both statements and given the historical experience of Asian Americans in America – what conclusion can we draw about the place of Asian Americans in American society?
Here is ChatGPT’s analysis:
Comparison of the Proclamations
1. Quality and Range of Facts:
- Trump’s Proclamation: Focuses on individual achievements of notable figures such as Kalpana Chawla and Susan Ahn Cuddy, and mentions the general value of industriousness and contributions to various sectors.
- Biden’s Proclamation: Provides a broader range of facts, including representation in high-level government positions, the establishment of initiatives and commissions, legislative actions, and support for AA and NHPI entrepreneurs.
2. Depth and Scale of Addressing Discrimination:
- Trump’s Proclamation: Acknowledges contributions but lacks a detailed address of historical and ongoing discrimination. The proclamation does not delve into specific legislative measures or initiatives aimed at combating discrimination.
- Biden’s Proclamation: Explicitly addresses historical discrimination, such as Japanese American incarceration during WWII, and current issues like anti-Asian hate. Highlights specific legislative actions and initiatives aimed at advancing equity and justice.
3. Tone:
- Trump’s Proclamation: Generally positive and respectful, but lacks depth in recognizing ongoing struggles and systemic issues faced by the AA and NHPI community.
- Biden’s Proclamation: Respectful and appreciative, with a clear focus on equality and inclusion. The tone is more comprehensive in acknowledging both achievements and challenges.
4. Evidence of Inclusion:
- Trump’s Proclamation: Provides limited evidence of systemic inclusion beyond individual achievements.
- Biden’s Proclamation: Offers concrete evidence of inclusion through high-level appointments, significant financial support for businesses, and legislative measures aimed at fostering equity.
5. Economic Contributions:
- Trump’s Proclamation: Does not mention the economic scale of the AA and NHPI community.
- Biden’s Proclamation: Highlights significant economic contributions, including over $22 billion in loans to AA and NHPI entrepreneurs and high employment and entrepreneurship rates.
6. Respect and Value:
- Trump’s Proclamation: Shows respect through recognition of contributions but lacks depth in addressing systemic issues.
- Biden’s Proclamation: Conveys a strong sense of respect and value through detailed initiatives, legislative actions, and a holistic approach to inclusion and equity.
Conclusion on the Place of Asian Americans in American Society
Historical Context: Asian Americans have faced a long history of discrimination and exclusion, from the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 to the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II, and more recent incidents of hate crimes and racism.
Contemporary Context: Both proclamations reflect an acknowledgment of the significant contributions of Asian Americans to American society. However, they differ in depth and approach:
- Trump’s Proclamation focuses on individual accomplishments and general appreciation, which, while positive, does not fully address the systemic challenges and historical discrimination faced by the community.
- Biden’s Proclamation provides a more comprehensive view by acknowledging both achievements and the ongoing struggles of Asian Americans. It outlines specific actions taken to combat discrimination and promote equity, demonstrating a stronger commitment to systemic change.
Conclusion: Asian Americans hold an essential and valued place in American society, contributing significantly to its cultural, economic, and social fabric. While progress has been made in recognizing and celebrating these contributions, there remains a need for continued efforts to address historical injustices and ongoing discrimination. Biden’s proclamation indicates a more robust approach to inclusion and equity, suggesting a move towards a more comprehensive acknowledgment and integration of Asian Americans into the broader narrative of American society. This reflects a society that is increasingly aware of the importance of diversity and the need to rectify past wrongs to build a more inclusive future.
