The poems of Angel Island represent the frustration and disappointment of Chinese immigrants coming into California, stemming from racial bigotry in America. While this is not a unique case in the United States (as there has always been many different kinds of immigrants), these poems were very successful in painting a realistic picture of what it must have been like on the island. I loved the traditional Chinese style of writing. It was straight forward and honest while also portraying the deep emotions and frustrations that the immigrants were feeling. I could easily imagine their living quarters, their anger and their sadness. In the first poem from the readings one author describes the contradiction between the tall buildings and the uncomfortable dwellings they were forced to stay in. There was a line that really spoke to me and it that reads, "America has power, but not justice. In prison, we were victimized as if we were guilty. Given no opportunity to explain, it was really brutal. I bow my head in reflection but there is nothing I can do." When a country is so powerful, it should not be allowed to abuse that power. This country was based on the idea that it was a haven for lost peoples; a place where anyone could enter and be able to start a life away from either tyranny or religious persecution or poverty. And yet every few decades or so there is yet another group that is persecuted and looked down on in some way.

It's heartbreaking knowing that they came with such high expectations and hope, and were treated with such disrespect and disregard. It makes me think:

Has America's racial bigotry ended, or is it still alive today? And if so, what group/groups do you see struggling today with this contradiction?