Karate Chops, Geishas & Nerds: Reflections on the Asian American Experience

John Palmer is the author of The Dance of Identities: Korean Adult Adoptees Reflect upon Their Identity Journeys, a book that takes an honest look at the complex nature of race and how we can begin to address race and racism from a fresh perspective. As an Iowan who was adopted at the age of 13 months from South Korea, he is able to bring his personal experience to the subject. After teaching in a racially diverse public elementary school, he went to South Korea in search of a closer attachment with his racial and ethnic identity. While there, he earned a masters in International Studies from Yonsei University and returned to earn a doctorate in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from the University of Iowa. He is currently an associate professor of educational studies at Colgate University. Keynote Speaker, Asian Heritage Week Performance Night