Asian+American Stories: Peter Giang
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As part of our Asian+American campaign, we're featuring personal stories that celebrate pride in being both Asian and American. Peter Giang, who is featured in our campaign film Beyond, Together, shared his story of navigating two cultures and breaking out of stereotypes.
Could you tell us a little about what you do?
I’m a model, photographer and producer on photoshoots.
Where did you grow up, and how did you identify when you were younger?
I grew up in Jamaica, Queens, New York. An area with African Americans, Hispanics, and Indians. I didn’t know how I identified—I thought I was a tough kid/thug because of the peers around me. I never wanted to be home, I was always exploring the 5 boroughs on my skateboard. Skateboarding is all I wanted to do growing up. But one thing I made sure of was to graduate high school to make my mom proud.
Did you ever feel caught between cultures in any way? If so, how?
Absolutely—growing up Asian American in a mostly Black and Hispanic neighborhood, feeling caught between cultures was just part of daily life. At home, it was one world—speaking my family’s language, eating food that sometimes made my friends wrinkle their noses, following traditions my neighbors didn’t really know about, trying to explain to my parents my lifestyle which they never understood. Outside, it was another world—the slang was different, the music blasting from cars was different, even the jokes were different. It gave me a tough skin.
Would you say the way you see yourself differs from how others have perceived/tried to define you?
Yeah, I’d say the way I see myself is definitely different from how people have tried to define me. Growing up Asian American, a lot of people expected me to be quiet, reserved, or just stick to one box. But I always felt like I was more open—I was likable, had my own sense of style, and could move through different circles. I understood different cultures, connected with people easily, and loved being that social butterfly who didn’t just fit in but stood out. So while some might’ve seen me through old stereotypes, I always knew I had way more layers than that.
Is there anything you wish you could say to your younger self about being Asian American?
Being Asian is awesome so embrace it more. Best food, best style and hella smart lol.
What does being Asian+American mean to you?
To me, being Asian American means living in the space between cultures and turning that in between into something strong and beautiful. It’s about carrying my family’s sacrifices, traditions, and values with pride while also making my own way in a place that gives me the freedom to be whoever I want to be. It means resilience—pushing through stereotypes, misunderstandings, and challenges—and still standing tall with gratitude for where I come from and where I’m going. It’s pride in my roots, strength in my identity, and freedom to grow beyond any limit.