Emma S. Buchanan

Emma S. Buchanan, 60's
San Ramon, CA
she/her

Current Role: Business Process Consultant-Marketing at Kaiser Permanente

What racial, ethnic, cultural community or communities do you identify with? 
Asian-Chinese American.

When and how did your family come to the United States? Where were you born?
My dad migrated to the U.S. around 1945 after the Japanese invaded the Chinese War. Both my parents were born and raised in Canton, China. My dad migrated first and left my mom and brother in China until he earned enough money to purchase a home. He flew back to China to bring my mom and brother to the U.S. I was born in Sacramento, California. 

What are the strengths and challenges of being Asian, Asian American, and/or Pacific Islander?
Asian-Chinese American. With the stereotypes of how Chinese people were depicted, I felt like I had to be someone that proved to others that I did not fit the typical stereotype. I was always very independent and strong-willed. 

What is your proudest accomplishment?
My 2 sons, 33 and 35 year olds. They have grown up to be very smart, accomplished, kind, and respectful young men. They make me very proud to be their mom! 

What is one thing you learned or appreciate from your family growing up?
Support in whatever the choices I made. Always their unconditional love for my children and I. They are always there for me during hard times and good times. 

Do you speak your family's native language? Why or why not?
I speak very broken Cantonese (Toishan).

What advice do you have for the younger generations in our Asian, Asian American, and Pacific Islander community?
Know where your roots are from. Keep a genealogy of your family. Family is most important and always be there for them. Know yourself and always have a plan for the present and future. Work hard and play hard.

​Treat others with respect and kindness. We are all individuals and humans, no matter the color of our skin, our culture, what we look like, what we do for a career, social status, political status or economic status. Don't judge people. Honesty is the foundation to all relationships. Follow your dreams, passions and live life to the fullest! 

What gives you the greatest joy in life?
Living my life to the fullest and thank the Lord for all of my blessings. 

If you would like to share your voice as a person of color, please read the directions and fill out this form here. All ages, backgrounds, and generations welcome. Thank you!