Texarkana’s Asian-American population is extremely low. Many Asian students in this school think only one or two people like them are attending here, but there’s a bit more. 

Sophomore Kai-ly Gaylor started up a new club: Texas High ASPIRE, standing for Asian Students Promoting Identity, Reflection and Education. 

Some members of the club talk about how they felt about the club starting. 

“There really isn’t much Asian representation in this school, all of us are in different grades,” senior Gwen Khou said. “[This club] is a really nice way to get to know everybody.”

Many Asian American students are excited about the club. It is small, but it’s a space where they can bond over cultural similarities. 

“[I hope to gain] connection from our Asian American group and share culture,” Khou said. “[We] can learn about everybody and their cultures and what we do in common and what we don’t do in common.” 

“I’ve never been exposed to other Asian cultures, so I really want to see other cultures,” senior Kaitlyn Colburn said. 

In October, T-High ASPIRE had its first meeting, and the president discussed their goals for the club. 

“This school year I want to raise money in hopes of starting the first Asian American festival in Texarkana,” Gaylor said. 

Having an Asian American festival in Texarkana would really mean a lot to the Asian population in this town. They don’t have much here except for a few restaurants and one market, so this festival could potentially teach Texarkana more about their culture.

At the meeting, students got to know each other, talked about their ethnicities and some talked a little bit about things they have done growing up.

“I created this club to make a community for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders,” Gaylor said. “[I want] them to have this type of safe space to share their experiences and give a sense of belonging to [our] community.”