The Journal published the statement with a note that Yang should have sought comment from the organization before his commentary was published.

The USFS's categorical denial of Yang's assertions fails to consider the context in which the choice was made, said Scott Kurashige, a professor of Asian American studies at the University of Michigan.

If Nagasu's past record holds more weight than her performance at the Nationals, then the fact that silver medalist Polina Edmunds, 15, is barely age-eligible and has far less of a track record than Nagasu indicates an inconsistent standard, Kurashige said.

"Too often people will cite rules when it favors their choice, and then argue that there needs to be exceptions to the rule when it doesn't favor them," he said. "When there isn't a consistent standard, then it's important to raise questions about subjectivity, and I believe that's what Jeff Yang was attempting to do in his piece. The association didn't answer any of those questions. Rules get used all the time against people of color, in the same way that stereotypes can be used to both downplay successes and to explain failure."

Kurashige pointed to a 2010 New York Times article, in which the rise of Asian Americans in figure skating was attributed to small body types, a diet of rice and fish, and a parental disciplinary style now known as the "Tiger Mother," thanks to Amy Chua.

Nagasu herself disputed the article's argument, claiming that she was much harder on herself than her mother had ever been. The conflating of biological and cultural stereotypes is typical in the way the media has handled coverage of people of color in sports, Kurashige said.

America itself has always struggled with an identity conflict in presenting itself as a beacon of freedom for a diverse range of people, while economic interests have been served best by catering to a white majority, he said. In an event like the Olympics, in which nationalities are pitted against one another, America's blend of cultures has in some cases posed a problem for corporate sponsors at home.

Whether corporate sponsorship may have also played a role in Wagner's selection is worthy of discussion: Wagner is sponsored by Proctor and Gamble; HiltonHonors and Cover Girl, all of whom are major sponsors of the USFSA.

Nagasu, who was photographed crying at an exhibition skate in the days following the announcement, has her share of supporters: The hashtag #MiraiEarnedIt gained momentum over the weekend, and on Tuesday Asiance Magazine petitioned its readers to mount an email campaign to reach committee officials, who have until Jan 27th to finalize the Olympic team roster.

Contact the writer at Kdawson@chinadailyusa.com