I agree with a claim written by Augusto Espiritu that the book should have the award rescinded. I agree with his particular argument because the book itself is a great piece of literature that should be studied in classrooms and read by many, which he makes sure to state. However, its message and the idea of “institutional racism” is a very controversial one, therefore should not be endorsed by the group that is there to represent and promote closer ties between Asian Americans. I disagree with a claim made by members of the UH Pamantasan Council that says the book should not be given the award due to the fact it “perpetuates a negative stereotype of Filipino Americans”. As a reader, I did not stereotype Filipinos as a whole just because there was a link between certain Filipino characters and sexual predators. To me, they were just characters to help shape a story, and did not define the book. That also should not be the determining factor of whether a book receives an award or not.
Espirtu’s claim is more convincing because he disagrees with the complaints that the book victimizes Filipinos and make sure it is known that he thinks Blu’s Hanging should be read and studied. The Council is proposing that because of the perceived racial injustice to one group of people an award should not be given. I do not think this is not a grand enough reason. However, Espiritu’s claim that giving the award to Yamanaka contradicts the job of the Association, because it is not bringing Asian Americans closer together, is a good one and makes his argument more convincing.