i'm hungry now
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Chapter 1 of Bengali Harlem
Many legal frameworks in America made it very difficult for Indians to enter the United States, like the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882, which was the first act to target a specific ethnic group. The Alien Contract Labor Law aimed to restrict the immigration of labourers who were under contract and, therefore, disproportionately affected Indian workers. Finally, the Immigration Act of 1917 further tightened immigration restrictions by creating an “Asiatic Barred Zone” and excluding immigrants from parts of Asia, including India. Nevertheless, many Muslim lascars were able to come to the US thanks to an American opening to the demand for “expanding American culture of travel, tourism, and consumption and a broad demand for Oriental goods” .
Orientalism and the American desire for « oriental » goods had an ambivalent impact on Bengalis. It offered economic opportunities to Bengali peddlers who benefited from this high demand for silk scarfs, rugs and brass objects. Acquiring oriental goods became a symbol of social status, particularly among upper-class women, who used these objects to decorate their homes thematically. For instance, Bertha Honoré Palmer used these objects to declare her identity and social standing by designing homes that were influenced by several cultures, particularly the Orient. However, this same interest in the East also fuelled misconceptions and preconceived notions about Bengalis, which further exacerbated the inequalities they faced. Orientalist views prevented Bengalis from being recognized as unique individuals and successful businessmen, which would often result in exploitation and marginalization.Chapter 5 of Bengali Harlem
Food is an important unifying feature among cultures. I think dinner is never a solitary moment but a moment to share with family and friends. These moments strengthen our ties with our family and friends and create shared memories. They also serve to gossip and discuss the latest news. But more deeply, food serves to affirm your cultural identity and as a remembrance power. Food takes you places for real.
Therefore, food has helped to create connections between Indians themselves and “white folks”. The fact that these workers were “apparent” to everyone raised the profile of the Indian community in the eyes of the whites, but above all, in the eyes of the Indians themselves. Compared to those who worked in factories and basement kitchens, these hot dog vendors were part of the active life and daily social landscape of Harlem. They were a key element in maintaining the Indian community. These small traders also provided a degree of security. As an illustration, Helen's younger sister Felita recalls moving from cart to cart with the knowledge that her brother-in-law Saad's friends would keep an eye on her and protect her in the streets. Eventually, individuals who managed to save some cash started modest stores and tiny restaurants, which became community landmarks by helping to deepen the relationships within the Indian community as well as the Puerto Rican and black American Muslim communities.