How Writing Has Helped Me Explore My Chinese-Canadian Identity
It’s no secret that I love exploring my cultural identity through my work as a writer. But it isn’t always easy.
Writing is a beautiful medium for self-expression, but it can open you up to unwanted criticism, especially in today’s age of social media. Putting yourself out there means being vulnerable, and maybe even admitting your faults, but through that process you find community — and that is the greatest reward and why I continue to express myself in this way.
I spent the majority of my youth rejecting my Chinese culture because I was embarrassed by how different I was from other kids. From my physical features to the food I ate to my mom’s accent, all these little things were reminders that I didn’t fit in.
It wasn’t until I left my parents’ house and moved to the big city that I realized that a community of open-minded people actually exists and celebrates cultural differences. It’s taken me a long time to fully embrace my identity as a Chinese-Canadian, but it’s a journey I hope resonates with others.
I hope to continue exploring my cultural identity through this blog, in addition to busting Asian stereotypes and making others feel less alone in their experiences as Asian Canadians. For now, here are a few of my personal published works that explore what it means to be Chinese-Canadian.
💥 4 Reasons Asking 'Where Are You From?' Is Offensive
An explanation of why this question is loaded with assumptions.
💥 I'm A Chinese-Canadian 'Banana' And Proud Of It
I credit my mom for shaping the way I see myself as a Chinese-Canadian.
💥 Being Fetishized or Othered Shouldn’t Be the Only Options for Asian Women
How the Atlanta shootings in March 2021 affected me as an Asian woman.
💥 WATCH: You Don't Need To Be Red-Faced About Your Asian Glow
Asian glow affects millions of people worldwide, but people don’t like to talk about it.
💥 Are You Seriously Mocking Asian Eyes, Gigi Hadid?
Squinting to mock Asian features isn’t an innocent joke.
