This morning I noticed that I was moved to the 1980s. That was a magical time for many of us and my generation. Economy was booming, our country was strong and admired worlds-wide.
In the Philippines, back in the ’60s and ’70s, we called Americans all “Joe’, even the women. Because of the Army and other armed forces present there at bases like the one at Subic Bay. Joe is a term of endearment for Americans whom we trust, respect, and admire, especially for being the ‘good guys’ who make sure kiddos and women and the vulnerable are never harmed. We call you Joe out of affection, trust, and respectful admiration. To be American wasn’t just to say you’re White. We also consider black, latino, indian, and now Islamists American too. And the admiration we have for your Ninongs and Ninangs – Native American Indian.
I dunno why you would demonize certain groups who admire you and respect you and think of you as the good guys who will assist them in their times of trouble. We think of you as JOE…. good guys who care about those being harmed, especially little, women, seniors, and the vulnerable. Isn’t that what being American is all about.
You can use ER and RE out there publicly. But please be a Rundell. I’m THE ER and my 3 year old daughter is THE RE… so be some kind of Rundell. Great name that Rundell has.
During the 90s Hollywood did a lot of films on JOE v Nazis. Nazis aren’t just orange… but they are considered the proverbial ‘bad guys’.
We are working Asians into the narrative in recent years. I hope you can be Charlies. Charlie Chans. We used to refer to Asians as Charlie… We’d say, “Not today, Charlie. No Sireee, Charlie Chan. But let’s hope Charlie can now get along with our beloved JOE.
~emma ruth