Day One
I’ve always wanted to start an organization that helped harness the power of the growing Asian population in this country. We are all activists in our own way, and for me, that means using my position as a PR/Communications exec, especially one with deep ties to the entertainment field, to increase Asian visibility in the media, society, and beyond.
After seeing the horrific rise of anti-Asian attacks targeting our elders, I felt compelled to do something. To me, the rise in attacks is directly correlated to the lack of Asian representation in the media and our invisibility and/or “othering” in American society. This in turn leads to an overall assumption that Asians are weak and powerless and historically speaking, the consequences aren’t severe if the victim is Asian. Two years of “China-virus” rhetoric and a never ending Pandemic that is causing unprecedented financial hardship, compounded with a historically fraught racial dynamic between the Asian and Black communities, is a recipe for disaster – the consequences of which, are playing out before our very eyes.
If we can increase our visibility in the media and society then we’ll finally be viewed as rightful equals and people will think twice about messing with our weakest, most vulnerable population. Furthermore, the media will be forced to cover these heinous attacks with the same fervor they cover other news.
I will not rest until this becomes common practice.
The recent attacks in Oakland Chinatown hit a special nerve because some of my happiest childhood memories are rooted in Chinatown. Whether it was casual dinners at my grandparents’ apt at 801 Franklin, peking special noodles from Szechuan, tomato beef chow mein from Sun Hong Kong, yi-fu wonton mein from King Wah, or buying White Rabbit candy from Oakland Market, the list is literally endless. Never once did I fear for my own safety or for those around me. But times have changed, and there are numerous factors at play, but I refuse to stay silent and let our elders fear for their lives in the only home they’ve known for 50+ years.
Today is the day I say enough is enough, and I start doing my part.