HILD12 Post №1

Analyzing the sound system in context with Chinese and Jamaican relations revealed how capitalism can destroy relations because of its incentive for certain classes to compete with each other to avoid the lower class. Gilmore explained in her video how capitalism depends on hierarchy and competition, which is evident in the Goffe article’s mention of the “model minority” narrative and “extra-coloniality” being presented in this situation. The Chinese were portrayed as more hardworking and driven than the “lazy” Black population, pitting Chinese as the middle-man of social hierarchy. This order the British reinforced created tensions and resentment between these two groups in the favor of the British. As long as these two populations believe each other to be their main rival for the country’s resources, the British will remain at the top of the food chain.

On the other hand, these sound systems established a space for Afro-Chinese mingling, bearing the innovation of music. When competition is out of the picture, this proximity allows for relations to build and strengthen. This relationship benefited Jamaicans with their music scene while Chinese businesses thrived.

In terms of our understanding of Honolulu’s Chinatown, the same themes observed in Goffe’s piece about Chinese businesses in Jamaica can be identified in this situation. Again, we see the situation of Chinese immigrants as the “middle man” between the Native people and the white colonials to uphold a social hierarchy where the whites can sit undisturbed at the top spot and prevent alliances between the Hawaiians and Asians.