In what ways did growing up in the era of Maoism mobilize May to seek refuge in America, at a time when immigrants from Asia, as a whole, migrated to America in droves? What are the social and political differences between these two specific cultures that might have influenced her choices?
The fear of unquestionable loyalty and acceptance of Mao’s programs was the driving force for May to leave. She saw what happened to her wealthy young friends. Even her niece followed Mao blindly and ruthlessly. May would not have been able to pursue science had she stayed.
I happened to be in Hong Kong in 1993, two years prior to HK returning to China. People were fearful. My friend was teaching in an international school. All staff were told to carry their passports on them as they might have to flee in a moment’s notice.
I was at an international conference and noticed that Chinese women moved in groups of at least five. Bathroom, conference session, etc. The 1999 Tiananmen Square protest seemed to affect how they behaved. Was being alone difficult or perhaps suspicious?
I wonder how the Chinese government’s reach impacts people today. Do you suppose there are online book clubs where people can voice their thoughts?
May knew that she would not be able to pursue her scientific interests in China. She also witnessed and experienced the brutality of the government toward anyone who did not bend toward their will. She had to get rid of her books, watch what she said, and to recite phrases. She wanted to live where she could pursue her work and live without fear of the government. Today, it is much harder to be an immigrant in the United States. They have recently revoked hundred of student visas. I don’t understand why.
Lily could not achieve her personal or professional goals in the China of that time. Being as career driven as she was, America was a place where she could have hope to achieve her career goals through hard work.
May had to make such difficult decisions in her early life under the strict regime of Maoism. She was first and foremost a scientist yet her studies were restricted because of the doctrines practiced in China centering on collectivization. She could not use her knowledge for learning and progression of the DNA studies. At the same time, May made the impossible decision to escape the country not with the man she loved but with a man who offered a better opportunity for a successful departure.
Her solid basis for what is a sure thing was the ultimate factor in her future problem solving. Risk was not seen as prudent, once settled with her daughter in a remote and isolated area. She was unapologetic about her distrust of the unknown.
May soon realized if she was to pursue her science work she need leave China as soon as she was able. She could not speak her truth if she remained there. Did she make the right choice, yes leaving provided her with more freedom., however, it also gave her freedom to change her daughter’s life. Today it is becoming harder for immigrants to enter the United States. Immigrants have provided the backbone of our country, and I continue to question why our current administration is determined to break that cycle.