Student Excellence in Audio Storytelling

Taoheng Chen, “An Asian immigrant teen confronts problem gambling in his community,” WNYC's Radio Rookies

ABOUT THE WORK: Gambling addiction is rarely discussed in mainstream conversations about Asian American and Pacific Islander struggles, yet it disproportionately affects our communities. This piece is impactful because it brings visibility to these struggles, breaking the stigma and secrecy that often accompany problem gambling.

Many immigrant families view gambling as a form of recreation, an escape from stress, or even a way to achieve financial success. However, gambling can also bring financial hardship, fractured relationships, and cycles of debt that take years to recover from.

By weaving together personal narrative, community voices, and expert insights, this work provides an intimate yet comprehensive examination of how gambling affects AAPI families. It also highlights how casinos specifically target Asian American gamblers with the inclusion of Asian-themed games, foods, and entertainment coupled with free transportation and promotional incentives. It demonstrates that gambling is not just a family issue but a broader social justice concern that requires collective action.

Taoheng “Tao” Chen is a native New Yorker—though he immigrated from China at a young age and grew up in Lower East Side of New York City. He is currently an undergraduate at Dartmouth College. In high school, Tao was a Radio Rookies Student Reporter at WNYC, the local NPR affiliate, where he explored stories rooted in identity and community. He was also a dedicated organizing committee member at the MinKwon Center for Community Action, advocating for immigrant rights and civic engagement in the AAPI community.

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