I am writing to address a recent letter that you published from Jack Tom of Bridgeport regarding Miya Sushi in New Haven. Let me begin by stating that I have never patronized the establishment nor am I familiar with it; however, that does not prevent me from pointing out that Mr. Tom is asking for support regarding an offensive issue that he helped sustain. In short Mr. Tom, three strikes, you’re out. Upon seeing the offensively named dish, Mr. Tom chose to remain in the restaurant and continue to order off the menu including ordering the offensively named dish. STRIKE ONE.
He didn’t ask to speak to the manager or leave and take his business elsewhere. When the dish was brought by a waiter singing “ching chong ching chong,” Mr. Tom remained in his seat and continued as a patron. STRIKE TWO.
He could have gotten up, refused to pay the bill and leave. Mr. Tom did not take a stand with the waiter, with the manager, with the owner and even with his own daughter and, yet, he has the nerve to state that he finds “the New England areas (outside of NYC and Boston) lack the sensitivity of the Asian American Awareness.” STRIKE THREE.
Mr. Tom is a perfect example of what ails our nation. Even though he was an active participant in keeping a system that he strongly disagrees with in place, somehow he wants everyone but himself (and the people of NYC and Boston) to take responsibility for it. The person who should be offering the public apology is Mr. Tom for painting New Englanders as insensitive and unresponsive to Asian Americans. Perhaps, next time Professor Tom will take a stand rather than sitting idly by waiting for others to stand up and lead.
Michele Young
Hamden