all lives matter
- EDITION #17 -
I was so ready to sit down today and start writing about how this year will be different, especially after the reality of what was 2020. We may have grown stronger against the coronavirus that hit the world in late 2019 and the crazy whirlwind we call politics, but here we are creating a virus of our own doing - racism. Racism has been the epitome of our history and yet, time after time, we continue to spread unjust hatred.
I have decided to take a break from my usual programming today to share what I believe is an extremely important message - stop the hate. It's absolutely heartbreaking that in 2021 this is the world we are living in. Today, I am challenging you to do something kind, whether that be supporting your local Asian-American businesses, or as simple as saying thank you. Start spreading love, not hate.
A SHARED BACKGROUND
Being a first-generation Asian-American, as many can relate, our parents and elders alike, overcame great emotional struggles, financial burdens, and discriminatory experiences to create a better future for us here in the United States. Although, I may be a proud American, don’t use that as a bias to overlook and see the racism that flocks our streets. This country was built on the back of our ancestors, all of whom were immigrants to this country - and yet, what gives someone the right to treat anyone, no matter the color they wear on their sleeve, in an undeserving manner?
I cannot speak for all people of color, but what I can speak on is my experiences as a brown Asian-American born and raised for 25 years right here in the States. I have learned from experience that you can’t judge a book by its cover. It is important to put aside the social and cultural biases that you have and reflect. It is incorrect to assume that all people with brown skin or individuals of Middle-Eastern descent want to cause terror. This same way of thinking has caused individuals to assume that all Asian-Americans are the origin of the Covid-19 Pandemic causing ripple effects of mass-murder and harassment. This is not right, just as individuals on the police force and many others created wrongful assumptions of individuals with black skin earlier last year.
Support the AAPI Community
As anti-Asian violence and hate crimes continue to rise, I urge everyone to show your support for the Asian American and Pacific Islander communities and help dismantle anti-Asian prejudice. Below is a list of organizations dedicated to supporting, protecting, and empowering the AAPI community, as well as providing resources for others looking to help.
Learn more about each below, and head to their feeds to find out how you can support their work. Please feel free to do your own research and reach out to local community activists and organizations as well.
NO 1. Stop aapi hate
@stopaapihate is a coalition dedicated to addressing anti‑Asian hate. The center tracks and responds to incidents of violence, harassment, and discrimination against Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders throughout the United States. While also educating government agencies, corporations, schools, and community groups about how to address anti‑Asian racism. Click here for more information.
no 2. Compassion in Oakland
@compassioninoakland is a volunteer organization that promotes safety and community in Oakland’s Chinatown neighborhood by providing Asian American seniors with volunteer escorts and chaperones. Those looking to expand the group’s efforts into their own city can apply to do so on their website. Click here for more information.
no 3. Enough is Enough
#EnoughisEnough is an initiative led by Asian American business owners focused on raising awareness of the recent surge in hate crimes against the Asian American community. The collective offers free meals to the underserved and works to promote unity and cross‑cultural community building through a variety of virtual fundraising events.
NO 4. HAte is a virus
#HateIsaVirus is a nonprofit community dedicated to dismantling racism and hate. The movement began as a response to the rise in hate crimes against Asian Americans due to the pandemic and has since raised over $100,000 to support BIPOC community organizations across the country.
No 5. Asian Americans advancing in justice
@advancingjustice_aajc is dedicated to advancing the human and civil rights of Asian Americans and building an equitable society for all. The organization documents hate and harassment against Asian Americans compiles lists of local resources for the AAPI community and hosts bystander intervention training. Other programs include legal advocacy, media diversity, voting rights, and more. Click here for more information.
Today and every day I am standing with all of my people in the Asian community from our friends and family to our neighbors and everyone who has been subject of hate and racism, including those of every color, culture, and religion. Help me spread the word, join together, and share this message because at the end of the day #alllivesmatter. Please be sure to tag us on Instagram at @theRDAstudio and #theRDAway. If you have questions or would like specific recommendations go ahead and comment down below or contact us!
Stay Creative,
P.S. (The Design Diaries will be my place where I unwind every week to talk to you guys about what is going on in my life plus anything you guys want to personally hear about... so please leave in the comments below if there is a special topic you want me to touch base on, as well as, feedback so I can curate my posts based on what you want to read!)
It’s spooky season…