aapi

I haven't ever first hand experienced any racial discrimination, and until a couple months ago, I never really considered it. Seeing all these women being attacked for absolutely no reason hurts my heart. As I gained awareness towards this situation, I realized how much others experience this. My friends get made fun of for appreciating their cultures, for being able to speak their language, and so much more. It's truly saddening.

When I first moved here to the United States at three years old. I knew my transition will be difficult as soon as I enter elementary school. I speak a few phrases in both English and Tagalog, but I thought my teachers would understand what I will be saying. Instead, I felt like an outsider. I felt like an “alien” because I was speaking in phrases mixed with two different languages. I had a few friends who helped me through the transition. Sometimes I would get pick on by the other classmates because of my eyes and how my face is shaped.

Growing up I always stood out in whatever setting I was placed in. Whether that be in group settings, classrooms or etc. As I grew up in neighbourhoods which lacked diversity, I understood then that this different I felt from the rest was not going to go away anytime soon.

I grew up in the bay area, where race was never an issue; there were 3 asian supermarkets within a 5 minute drive from my place. All of my neighbors were Asian. I felt safe, protected. I felt like I belonged. My work led me to moving to the East Coast. I expected a change, but nothing too drastic; we were in the 21st century after all. With the rise of social media and social accountability, race issues seemed to be something of the past.

In 2004, my parents immigrated to the United States from India, looking for a future of success and promise. Only a year later, I was born as the first American citizen in my family. It was difficult trying to find a balance between my Indian roots and American heritage. I was either considered too “white-washed” or too cultured. For a long time, I struggled with my identity and sense of belonging.