Redefine Dichotomies: Amplifying Asian Diaspora Stories

Being part of the Asian diaspora (e.g., Asian American, Asian Canadian, Asian European) can feel dichotomous at times. Eastern and Western values sometimes feel at odds and it can be challenging to feel like you truly “belong” in either culture. But identity isn’t a zero-sum game, where the more “Asian” you are, the less “American” you are. I’m both Taiwanese and American.

I initially created Redefine Dichotomies in 2020 to support a friend during her book publication and amplify her story. I felt an increased sense of urgency in my work as hate crimes against Asians became more prevalent during COVID. I felt frustrated and helpless about the rise in violence against Asian Americans, and I wanted to subvert stereotypes about the Asian diaspora and humanize our experiences.

I hope these stories help people:

1. Embrace ostensibly different parts of their identity (e.g., being both Asian and American) and allow them to coexist
2. Understand the similarities we all share as humans
3. Learn from one another’s differences

Racism can show up as unconscious biases in even well-intentioned people. It’s especially easy for these biases to manifest and grow when we don’t interact with or understand people who look different from us.

Read more about my Asian American experiences and follow along on instagram.

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