The Harm of Words: JD Vance, “Peasants,” and the Perpetual Foreigner Stereotype
JD Vance’s recent remarks referring to Chinese people as “peasants” have sparked outrage, not only in China but also among those who recognize the weight of such language. While his comments may have been aimed at critiquing globalization, they inadvertently perpetuate harmful stereotypes that have long plagued Chinese and Asian communities worldwide.
The term “peasant” is not just a descriptor—it carries connotations of inferiority and backwardness. For a nation like China, which has made remarkable strides in technology, infrastructure, and global influence, such language feels not only outdated but also deeply disrespectful. The backlash on Chinese social media and from officials highlights the collective indignation at being reduced to a caricature.
But the harm doesn’t stop at international relations. Here in the United States, such rhetoric feeds into the “perpetual foreigner” stereotype that Asian Americans have battled for generations. Despite their deep roots in American history—building railroads, contributing to science and the arts, and serving in the military—Asian Americans are often seen as outsiders. This perception has real consequences, from microaggressions to outright violence, as seen in the surge of anti-Asian hate crimes during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Vance’s comments, whether intentional or not, underscore the need for greater awareness and responsibility in public discourse. Words matter. They shape perceptions, fuel biases, and either build bridges or deepen divides. As a society, we must challenge language that dehumanizes or marginalizes any group, recognizing the dignity and contributions of all people.
Asian Americans are not “perpetual foreigners.” They are an integral part of the American story, and it’s time we fully embrace that truth.