The ASPIRE Blog

Meet ASPIRE's Mentorship Team

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 02:55:33 GMT

We are thrilled to welcome three new members to ASPIRE! Get to know the amazing individuals who make up the Mentorship Program team.

Gaozouapa (Gao) Vue : Mentorship Program Director

Chloe Best : Mentorship Program Volunteer Coordinator

Lili Houlihan : Mentorship Program Events Coordinator

1) Tell us a bit about yourself and why you decided to join ASPIRE:

Gaozouapa (Gao) Vue : I was born and raised in Minnesota. I work in Community Health Education and I decided to join ASPIRE because of the opportunity to give back and work with a team to develop a program that can support our next generations of leaders.

Chloe Best : I am a recent graduate from the University of New Hampshire and was a student leader for the United Asian Coalition and our student support center for marginalized communities. This fall, I was a legislative intern with APAICS (Asian Pacific American Institute for Congressional Studies) and served in the House of Representatives. While it was a great experience and I met so many amazing individuals, I missed working directly with communities. Joining ASPIRE opened an opportunity to continue my passion for supporting the Asian American community while I work towards building a career in social justice and youth empowerment.

Lili Houlihan : I'm originally from Miami, FL and moved to Massachusetts for school, the College of the Holy Cross. I moved to Boston after graduating with a sociology degree. I started my career in marketing and currently work in sales for an architecture consulting company. I decided to join ASPIRE because I believe in their mission. Being in an all-girls school for the majority of my adolescence, I was constantly in a community where women were empowered. However, I did feel like there was a disconnect in my particular experience being one of the few Asian-Americans in my class. ASPIRE is an organization that I wish I had around growing up.

2) What excites you most about the upcoming Mentorship Program cohort?

Gao : Being able to be a part of their journey and see what the cohort will get out of the experience!

Chloe : This cohort is eager to learn and eager to share. During interviews, participants' attitudes were infectious, reflecting a genuine interest in growing as individuals and connecting with others who can relate to or guide one another. I can't wait to see it unfold and get to know them all!

Lili : I'm excited to meet new faces and hear about everyone's experiences. Life experiences are the best form of knowledge. I hope to see true connections and unity formed for this year's cohorts.

3) Who has been a mentor or source of inspiration in your life?

Gao : I'd also say Brene Brown's insights are always helpful to me when I need a push or perspective!

Chloe : I really look up to my peers, and I have been so fortunate to have unwavering support from leaders on my college campus. From others, I have learned to set boundaries, stay authentic, and be kind to myself. Specifically, between my peers, previous leaders of the United Asian Coalition, and my wonderful roommates over the years, I am always inspired to explore.

Lili : My mom. She is a true inspiration - whether it be in personal life or in her career. Even after her retirement, she continues to be a true success in the law field. It was only after I grew up a little that I understood what she was able to accomplish at her job and as a mother. She excelled at both. She pushes me to make changes that would benefit my life, always there to listen, and provide guidance.

4) What motivates you, professionally or personally?

Gao : My faith is important to me and has become a motivator for me in life both professionally and personally.

Chloe : My passion drives my commitment to both my professional and personal growth. Whether it's my passion for learning new things, connecting with others, or just the satisfaction of having accomplished a task.

Lili : My family and friends motivate me in both my profession and personal life. As I mentioned above, life experiences are the best form of knowledge. Because I've seen and heard the experiences of those close to me (choices made, regrets, accomplishments, failures, etc.), I’m able to take it all in. Other people’s experiences drive me know that anything is possible.

5) Go-to comfort food or favorite meal:

Gao : I've always enjoyed a loaded kimchi French fries! Or a traditional banh-mi or chicken one fulfills me!

Chloe : I LOVE SOUP. Any type of soup, maybe a slight preference towards noodle soups. Regardless, I will have soup in any weather.

Lili : My favorite food is sushi. Any type but I especially enjoy salmon sashimi in any form.

6) Fun fact about you:

Gao : Heights and high speed are not my thing, so I have yet to be on a roller coaster!

Chloe : I danced competitively for 12 years, and I competed against Chloe Lukasiak from Dance Moms at our national’s competition. My mom has a cameo just sitting in the audience for "Where Have All the Children Gone".

Lili : I lived in Australia for a full year during my junior year of college!

2025 AAPI Small Business Guide

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 05:03:33 GMT

60+ AAPI small businesses to support this holiday season (and year-round)!

It's that wonderful time of year again - cue the holiday cheer and gift giving! The ASPIRE team loves to support and highlight AAPI-owned small businesses in our communities, and we're excited to share our updated list for 2025. Browse through our curated list of AAPI small businesses across the country to find the perfect gift for your loved ones, partner, friends, and more! We've separated each section by business category so you can find something for everyone.

Know a small business that should be featured on here? Email us at info@girlsaspire.org with more information so we can add it!

Apparel & Accessories ��

1. Mary Lo [ by-marylo.com ] | Eclectic & fun clothing designs

2. Ohmonah [ ohmonah.shop ] | Whimsical apparel & accessories

3. Kinn Fine Jewelry [ kinnstudio.com ] | Modern heirloom fine jewelry

4. Joey Baby [ joeybaby.com ] | Versatile jewelry for everyday

5. CONRADO [ shopconrado.com ] | Clothing brand and multi-label boutique of clothing, crafts, home goods, gifts and apothecary

6. Aina Studios [ ainastudios.com ] | Intentional jewelry inspired by nature and identity

7. yuuchoy [ etsy.com/shop/yuuchoy ] |Unique, charming earrings based in Boston

8. Oohjacquelina Handcrafted Jewelry [ oohjacquelina.com ] | Custom jewelry based in Boston

9. rising [ hellorising.com ] | Minimal & intentional jewelry

Art & Design ��

10. StudioKwoh [ etsy.com/shop/StudioKwoh ] | Prints, stationary, & stickers

11. ArtByCruzCreations [ artbycruzcreations.com/collections ] | Abstract paintings & ceramics

12. Tottopottery [ etsy.com/shop/tottopottery ] | Handmade ceramics with a touch of childhood memories

13. CassPaints [ etsy.com/shop/casspaintsArt ] | Cute designed stickers & prints

14. Rayna Lo Art [ raynalo.com ] | Calligraphy & illustrations

15. Anemoni by Ari [ instagram.com/anemoni.by.ari ] | Colorful, East Asian-inspired home creations

16. The Chubby Bunny Brand [ thechubbybunnybrand.com ] | Positive self care stickers & stationary

17. Meridrop [ meridrop.com ] | Adorable art, apparel, prints, & more

18. Nicole Chan Photography & Videography [ nicolechanphotography.com ] | Timeless photography services

19. Petty Party [ pettypartyco.square.site ] | Stickers, pins, jewelry largely celebrating Filipino culture

20. KyonoStudios [ kyonostudios.com ] | Crafts, keychains, stickers, & more

21. Pyperbleu Collective [ pyperbleu.com ] | Stationary & wearable art

22. jooj studio [ joojstudio.com ] | Accessories, apparel, & art prints

23. Tulipions [ etsy.com/shop/Tulipions ] | Joyful pastel art prints

24. their art [ ko-fi.com/theirart_ ] | Delightful fiber art

Food ��

25. Mojave Mallows [ mojavemallows.com ] | Artisanal organic marshmallows

26 bouquetappetit [ bouquetappetit.com ] | Fun charcuterie boards

27. Diaspora Co. [ diasporaco.com ] | Single origin spices

28. Fila Manila [ filamanila.com ] | Filipino spices & sauces

29. immi [ immieats.com ] | Reinvented instant ramen

30. Her Bowl of Soup [ herbowlofsoup.com ] Hand-packaged traditional Chinese medicinal herbs for soups

31. Mama O's Premium Kimchi [ kimchirules.com ] | Handmade kimchi

32. PAGU [ gopagu.com/collections/shop ] | Products from James Beard semifinalist restaurant in Cambridge, MA

33. Madhrasi Chai [ madhrasi.com ] | Flavorful chai concentrate

34. Taiyookie [ taiyookie.com ] | DIY taiyaki kits

35. Mei Mei Dumpings [ meimeidumplings.com ] | Unique dumpling flavors

36. Sweet London Bakery [ sweetlondonbakery.com ] | Cakes, truffles, & more

37. Socola Chocolatier [ socolachocolates.com ] | Vietnamese heritage chocolates based San Francisco

38. Tuk Tuk Box [ tuktukbox.com ] | Southeast Asian snack boxes

39. Tea Drops [ myteadrop.com ] | Convenient loose-leaf teas

40. SPICEWALLA [ spicewallabrand.com ] | Small batch spices

Home ��

41. Asian Boba Girl [ shopbobagirl.com ] | Boba scented candles

42. Chhoti Si Asha [ chhotisiasha.org ] | Empowering Indian crafts

43. Chop Suey Club [ chopsueyclub.com ] | Asian home goods boutique

44. Green Tiger Co [ greentiger.co ] | Woman-owned sustainable goods shop

45. Scrumptious Wicks [ scrumptious-wicks.myshopify.com ] | Handmade soy wax candles

46. The New Savant [ thenewsavant.com ] | Unique fragrances

47. SIN [ virginiasin.com ] | Handmade home goods

48. Lu France Interiors [ lufranceinteriors.com ] | Curated home decor pieces

49. JUJU.BEE [ jujudotbee.com ] | Nostalgic Asian-inspired scents

50. Banyan & Birch [ banyanandbirch.com ] | Home goods reimagining India's rich textiles

51. WING ON WO & CO. [ wingonwoand.co/shop ] | Chinatown porcelain wares

52. ChutbiCeramics [ chutbiceramics.com ] | Handmade ceramics

Hobbies ��

53. Mango and Marigold Press [ mangoandmarigoldpress.com ] | Publishing house highlighting South Asian stories

54. Yu & Me Books [ yuandmebooks.com ] | Manhattan Chinatown book shop centering immigrant stories

55. Philippine Expressions Bookshop [ philippinebookshop.com ] | Filipino book shop

56. Arkipelago Books [ arkipelagobooks.com ] | Filipino book shop

57. The Woobles [ thewoobles.com ] | Cute crochet kits

58. Narrative Bookstore [ narrativebookshop.com ] | Independent book shop amplifying marginalized voices & experiences

59. Eastwind Books of Berkeley [ asiabookcenter.com ] | Asian American book shop

60. Parents are Human [ parentsarehuman.com ] | Conversation decks centered on relationship building

Personal & Professional Wellness ��✨

61. Binu Binu [ binu-binu.com ] | Korean spa-inspired modern soaps

62. Blume [ blume.com ] | Skin, body, & period care products

63. Pink Moon [ pinkmoon.co ] | Skincare promoting harmonious wellbeing

64. Populum [ populum.com ] | Premium full-spectrum CBD products

65. Judy Ta LLC [ Judy-ta.com ] | Business coaching for founders and small business owners

An Interview with ASPIRE's Founder, Nellie Ling

Thu, 08 May 2025 18:33:33 GMT

This AAPI Heritage Month, we had the honor of interviewing Nellie Ling, the founder of ASPIRE! Learn more about her motivations to create ASPIRE, reflections on work-life balance, and advice for young AAPI leaders.

1. What motivated you to create ASPIRE?

For most of my middle school and high school years, I grew up as the sole AAPI at my schools in the deep south. I had limited access to mentors and role models that looked like me or had shared backgrounds or experiences. When I moved to Boston as a young professional, I was overjoyed by my surrounding community of accomplished and supportive AAPI women from various professional and academic fields and backgrounds. I wanted to explore ways to leverage the collective experiences of this community of AAPI women to provide mentorship and leadership for young AAPI girls. With a few friends, I started visiting high schools to gauge interest in a mentorship and leadership program designed specifically for AAPI girls, and the overwhelmingly positive response fueled the creation of ASPIRE.

2. What do you think has changed the most for AAPI women since you have started ASPIRE?

I love that there are more resources for the AAPI community to come together and connect now. There are multitudes of AAPI organizations and programs, and through social media, these resources are even more accessible today. I also appreciate that there is more diverse representation of AAPI women in media today - various ethnic backgrounds, differing professions and life experiences, and an array of personality and body types. Though challenges for AAPI women still exist, I hope that young AAPI women today feel less pressure to conform to static archetypal characterizations and expectations that society has put on AAPI women in the past.

3. How did you balance starting a non-profit and advancing your professional career while maintaining your personal life?

I worked in a demanding advertising job, loved spending time with friends in this newfound AAPI community that I had never had before, and started dating my (now) husband while I was starting ASPIRE. It was a lot! But when you spend long hours planning and organizing with people you genuinely enjoy being with, hard work doesn't feel as hard. The community of ASPIRE women I worked with was so incredibly talented and generous - we had an attorney on our board that helped us file for non-profit status; we had marketing and PR professionals that formed meaningful connections with the Boston community; we had graduate students that served as bridges to academic resources. There have been many women building ASPIRE over the years, and this community is one that continues to give and pay it forward.

4. What accomplishment are you most proud of?

Founding ASPIRE and seeing it still supporting young AAPI women today is certainly up there! I also find joy in partnering with local schools to build Community Service Learning programs, which integrate opportunities for hands-on service with curriculum in classrooms. While my professional, community and academic endeavors have helped shape how I view and interact with the world today, I feel most privileged to be raising my three daughters (16, 15 and 9 years old) and supporting their dreams and interests.

5. What advice would you give to AAPI women who want to be in leadership positions?

I would stress the importance of finding meaningful mentorship - which may come in the form of somebody that looks like you or somebody that is ostensibly different. I have a beloved mentor, an African American man with southern roots, that I met in high school. He supported me in starting a community service club at that time. We were an unlikely pair, and yet he became like a father to me - an unconditionally supportive adult in my high school years, a reassuring voice that was a phone call away while I was navigating college, and a grandfather figure to my kids today.

6. How do you stay motivated during challenging times?

Perhaps due to my prior work in user experience, I try to remember "who" and "what" I'm ultimately trying to impact when I face challenges or obstacles. When I keep in mind how my efforts may affect others, whether in the short or long term, that helps fuel me. I also find working with (or even just brainstorming with) people you enjoy being with to be a great motivator.

7. Who inspires you and what inspires you about them?

I find so many people inspiring! One of my all-time heroes is Jane Goodall. Her courage and passion for the planet and its inhabitants are unmatched. I most appreciate how she is able to persuade people - from both sides of the table - to listen to her and take action. She is rarely the loudest or biggest person in the room, and yet she commands small conference rooms and large stadiums with her sense of purpose. I am also inspired by people who perform simple acts of kindness when nobody is watching.

8. What is bringing you joy?

In the current climate of uncertainty, I find the most joy in the "normal." Whether it's working on a large puzzle with my husband and kids while listening to our Spotify playlists or impromptu dog walks (with our dog that doesn't like to walk), these small moments are sometimes the most rejuvenating. I also try to prioritize making time for friends that fill my bucket - the ones that make you laugh until you cry, the ones you can sit or walk with in silence, and the ones that cheer for you and celebrate you as you are.

Celebrating Lao and Thai New Year

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 03:40:26 GMT

Written by Ashley Rajavadee, ASPIRE's Website Manager

About the holiday

Sabaidee pi mai! Suksan wan pi mai! Happy New Year!

Mid-April means New Year season for many Southeast Asian cultures, particularly for Lao and Thai communities. The holiday is called Songkran, and lasts three days. The timing is based on the solar calendar - when the sun moves from Pisces to Aries in the zodiac - and the dates fall between April 13th to 15th. The first day of the holiday (April 13) is considered the last day of the old year. The second day (April 14) is the "day of no year", a transitional period between the old and new year. The last day (April 15) marks the start of the new year.

Morning and evening during festival season at Wat Lao Buddhamamakaram in Columbus, Ohio.

How the holiday is celebrated

There are many traditions that Lao and Thai people observe during the New Year. On the first day of the holiday, people deep clean their houses. This involves tenderly washing all Buddha statues within their homes with perfumed flower water. People also visit their local temples to wash the Buddha statues there. The cleansing and washing rituals are symbols of purification, readying people for the New Year.

The second day of the holiday is typically marked for rest. Since it is considered a day in between the old and new year, relaxation is prioritized and people spend more time with their families. Paying respects to elders in the family and community is also encouraged.

The third day of the holiday is the first day of the year. People often visit their local temples, making offerings to monks and honoring their ancestors. There is usually a baci ceremony held after prayer, a traditional ceremony where people tie white thread around each other's wrists, centering their souls and wishing them prosperity and good health. Festivals are usually held on this day at temples, with lots of music, food, and dancing.

Throughout the holiday, water plays a large role. Perfumed water is used to clean homes and altars, and water is respectfully poured on elders and monks for well wishes and blessings. During festivities, people spray others with water for fun; shaving cream is also alternatively used. In my community, everyone joins in on playful water tossing, from the youth to the elderly!

Another cherished tradition is the Nang Songkran pageant and parade. This is a reenactment of a Buddhist folk myth surrounding the Songkran holiday, in which the seven daughters of the ancient king Kabinlaphom honor his legacy by carrying his head. Every year, one of his daughters is chosen to carry the king’s head and is dubbed Nang Songkran, or Lady Songkran, as a high honor. I grew up participating in this tradition and joining in on the pageants, similar to most young girls in the community. While it's held as a pageant, it’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with the culture and heritage every year.

Where the holiday is celebrated

Lao and Thai New Year is widely celebrated in both Laos and Thailand as a national holiday. Overseas, the holiday is observed in Lao and Thai diasporic communities across the world. Although there are specific dates for the actual holiday, in U.S.-based communities, festivities are typically held on weekends around April (also sometimes May and June) to make it easier for more people to attend celebrations.

To find local celebrations near you, Google search ‘Lao New Year festival’ or ‘Thai New Year festival’ with your city or state. There are many small festivals in local communities across all states and territories during these next few months! Join in the celebrations if you can!

2024 AAPI Small Business Guide

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 05:59:39 GMT

60+ AAPI small businesses to support this holiday season (and year-round)!

The holiday season is upon us - why not shop at an AAPI-owned small business and support the community? Browse through our curated list of AAPI small businesses across the country to find the perfect gift for your loved ones, partner, friends, and more! We've separated each section by business category so you can find something for everyone.

Know a small business that should be featured on here? Email us at info@girlsaspire.org with more information so we can add it!

Apparel & Accessories ��

1. Mary Lo [ by-marylo.com ] | Eclectic & fun clothing designs

2. Ohmonah [ ohmonah.shop ] | Whimsical apparel & accessories

3. TRUST [ trust.camp ] | Contemporary apparel centered on Asian identity

4. Joey Baby [ joeybaby.com ] | Versatile jewelry for everyday

5. rising [ hellorising.com ] | Minimal & intentional jewelry

6. Kinn Fine Jewelry [ kinnstudio.com ] | Modern heirloom fine jewelry

7. Oohjacquelina Handcrafted Jewelry [ oohjacquelina.com ] | Custom jewelry based in Boston

8. munmadenyc [ etsy.com/shop/munmadenyc ] | Handmade clay earrings

Art & Design ��

9. Clare Kim Art [ etsy.com/shop/clarekimart ] | Fun acrylic paintings

10. HandmadebyEugeniaKo [ etsy.com/shop/HandmadebyEugeniaKo ] | Cute art cards

11. StudioKwoh [ etsy.com/shop/StudioKwoh ] | Prints, stationary, & stickers

12. Rayna Lo Art [ raynalo.com ] | Calligraphy & illustrations

13. ArtByCruzCreations [ artbycruzcreations.com/collections ] | Abstract paintings & ceramics

14. kawaii craft [ kawaiicraftshop.com ] | Clay keepsakes

15. Meridrop [ meridrop.com ] | Adorable art, apparel, prints, & more

16. Nicole Chan Photography & Videography [ nicolechanphotography.com ] | Timeless photography services

17. Petty Party [ pettypartyco.square.site ] | Stickers, pins, jewelry largely celebrating Filipino culture

18. KyonoStudios [ kyonostudios.com ] | Crafts, keychains, stickers, & more

19. Pyperbleu Collective [ pyperbleu.com ] | Stationary & wearable art

20. jooj studio [ joojstudio.com ] | Accessories, apparel, & art prints

21. Tulipions [ etsy.com/shop/Tulipions ] | Joyful pastel art prints

22. their art [ ko-fi.com/theirart_ ] | Delightful fiber art

23. potato desk [ potatodesk.com ] | Cute stationary & accessories

Food ��

24. bouquetappetit [ bouquetappetit.com ] | Fun charcuterie boards

25. Diaspora Co. [ diasporaco.com ] | Single origin spices

26. Fila Manila [ filamanila.com ] | Filipino spices & sauces

27. immi [ immieats.com ] | Reinvented instant ramen

28. Madhu Chocolate [ madhuchocolate.com ] | Handcrafted Indian-inspired chocolates

29. Mama O's Premium Kimchi [ kimchirules.com ] | Handmade kimchi

30. Madhrasi Chai [ madhrasi.com ] | Flavorful chai concentrate

31. Mei Mei Dumpings [ meimeidumplings.com ] | Unique dumpling flavors

32. Omsom [ omsom.com ] | Easy saucy noodles

33. Sanzo [ drinksanzo.com ] | Asian-inspired sparkling water

34. Yishi [ yishifoods.com ] | Healthy oatmeal & spreads

35. Sweet London Bakery [ sweetlondonbakery.com ] | Cakes, truffles, & more

36. Tuk Tuk Box [ tuktukbox.com ] | Southeast Asian snack boxes

37. Tea Drops [ myteadrop.com ] | Convenient loose-leaf teas

38. SPICEWALLA [ spicewallabrand.com ] | Small batch spices

Home ��

39. Asian Boba Girl [ shopbobagirl.com ] | Boba scented candles

40. Blueland [ blueland.com ] | Waste-reducing home products

41. Chop Suey Club [ chopsueyclub.com ] | Asian home goods boutique

42. Green Tiger Co [ greentiger.co ] | Woman-owned sustainable goods shop

43. Scrumptious Wicks [ scrumptious-wicks.myshopify.com ] | Handmade soy wax candles

44. The New Savant [ thenewsavant.com ] | Unique fragrances

45. SIN [ virginiasin.com ] | Handmade home goods

46. Lu France Interiors [ lufranceinteriors.com ] | Curated home decor pieces

47. WING ON WO & CO. [ wingonwoand.co/shop ] | Chinatown porcelain wares

48. ChutbiCeramics [ chutbiceramics.com ] | Handmade ceramics

Hobbies ��

49. Mango and Marigold Press [ mangoandmarigoldpress.com ] | Publishing house highlighting South Asian stories

50. Arkipelago Books [ arkipelagobooks.com ] | Filipino book shop

51. Parents Are Human [ parentsarehuman.com ] Conversation decks centered on relationship building

52. The Woobles [ thewoobles.com ] | Crochet kits

53. Philippine Expressions Bookshop [ philippinebookshop.com ] | Filipino book shop

54. Eastwind Books of Berkeley [ asiabookcenter.com ] | Asian American book shop

Wellness ��✨

55. Binu Binu [ binu-binu.com ] | Korean spa-inspired modern soaps

56. Blume [ blume.com ] | Skin, body, & period care products

57. cocokind [ cocokind.com ] | Clean beauty products

58. Pink Moon [ pinkmoon.co ] | Skincare promoting harmonious wellbeing

59. Populum [ populum.com ] | Premium full-spectrum CBD products

60. Then I Met You [ thenimetyou.com ] | Innovative Korean skincare

61. Felicia’s Cosmetics [ feliciascosmetics.com ] Cosmetics store carrying Asian & European skin & makeup products

62. Inoki Bathouse [ inokibathhouse.com ] | Soothing tea baths

Dealing With Dad: Thoughts on the Film

Sun, 06 Nov 2022 22:36:46 GMT

ASPIRE's Sophia Lai shares her thoughts on the premiere of Dealing With Dad at the 2022 Boston Asian American Film Festival.

Dealing With Dad broadcasts the effects of psychological damage and siblings’ tough love, accompanied by constant humor, to an audience expecting to see the struggles of obstinate parents from the movie’s namesake. Its unabashed acknowledgement of abuse and the resulting negative consequences on children is rather refreshing, given the lack of having these conversations normally in our own lives.

The main character, Margaret Chang, is the fearless leader of her brothers–daring to talk to the elders when the alternative is so much easier to passively accommodate a situation (such as when a parent gets sick, or having to move out, or staying in a one-sided relationship). One can only assume the co-parenting briefly seen on screen with her husband is a deliberate decision of Margaret’s to do exactly what she felt was missing from her own childhood: parents engaging the child with conversations; asking the child questions and waiting for responses; following through with shared quality time. This is a stark contrast to the dynamic of Margaret and her dad, where she could never ask him any personal questions or expect him to be there for the milestones in her life. Yet even Margaret is not able to fully escape behaviors learned from her dad (ie ceaseless critiquing). She has strived hard to do what she thinks is right–an admirable quality that can also be an extreme flaw–which she unwittingly shares with her dad.

Margaret is a perfect choice to depict the struggles of growing up as a child of Asian immigrant parents before the 2000s. The director of the film, Tom Huang, said he had originally written the protagonist based off himself, but realized that a more powerful tale could be told through showing the challenges that daughters can face: the expectations to set aside their own lives to take care of their parents and siblings; to be the safe and responsible daughter when the son can pursue any career or lack thereof. This situation can become the reality of many more women in the next few decades, given the difficulty in finding affordable and quality support systems in place to care for our aging population.

We are not doomed to be left to our own devices, however. Larry and Roy stepped up thanks to their sister, and acknowledge how Margaret is in a powerful position because of her ability to get things done. Together, as the new generation of the family, they counter the conflicts and trauma passed down from their parents, by creating new lives of their own with healthier approaches guided by their reflections. Off-screen we also have resources from organizations such as Asian Women for Health that can help us navigate discussions around mental health within ourselves and with our families.

Thank you BAAFF for continuing to uplift our stories!

Supporting Local Restaurants: Small and Sweet Bake

Wed, 20 Oct 2021 23:56:39 GMT

Written by Anita Nham, ASPIRE's Marketing Director

We’re continuing our series to promote Asian- & Asian American-owned restaurants! Our next spotlight is on Small and Sweet Bake. Its mission is to bring you a unique cupcake experience that is sure to leave you with a sweet taste and a big smile. The refreshingly modern take on the beloved cupcake is infused with sweet and savory Asian flavors or ingredients. Read our interview with owner and baker Cindy below.

1. What is the story behind Small and Sweet Bake? When and how did this come about?

Small and Sweet Bake came about in my life at a time when I was looking for a change of pace and a new challenge…what better way than to start my own business? I’ve always had a soft spot for sweets and a particular fondness for cupcakes. Why not meld my favorite dessert with flavors familiar to my background?

2. Why did you decide to create Small and Sweet Bake? Is it a one-person team?

I thought it'd be neat to introduce cupcakes infused with Asian flavors! I am a one-person operation, although my husband helps out with some deliveries and when I’m at SoWa.

3. What is it like managing a pop-up and delivery business? What are the advantages and disadvantages?

I had to pivot my business to making deliveries during the pandemic. This allowed me to keep going through the months of quarantine. Without a storefront, pop-ups are a great way to test out different markets. They’re also a hub where people can pickup. After several months of contact-free deliveries, I finally got to meet some of my customers face-to-face! On the flip side, it can be very hectic managing a pop-up and delivery business. Lots of running around! Organization and a streamlined process is key to making it work.

4. As an Asian American-owned business, do you feel like you have faced specific challenges during the pandemic?

We’ve all faced varying challenges during the pandemic. I launched my business at the end of February 2020 and within a month, everything was shut down. Like everyone else, I had to figure out how I should move forward.

5. There are new flavors at Small and Sweet Bake every month. What's the process for creating a new recipe, and how do you know when it's ready to be shared?

It starts with an idea. I figure out each component of the cupcake and how they can best represent the new flavor. This is where I decide on the flavor of the cake, the frosting, and whether it should have a filling or toppings. Testing usually comes next; how vigorous it is depends on whether I am trying out a new ingredient or technique. I usually have several new flavors/recipes stored up until it can be worked into a specific lineup.

6. Who or what are your inspirations?

I am inspired by food and art. Building this business has been a great creative outlet for me! Truth be told, I am always looking to be inspired to create new flavors! Seasonal flavors and ingredients play a big part. I am perpetually on the lookout for unusual ingredients or interesting flavor combinations. Popular trends as well as obscure ones are also particularly interesting to me. And all seen through an Asian lens, of course!

7. What are your favorite cupcake flavors that you've created?

I get that question a lot! But you really can’t ask a parent to pick a favorite child. I honestly love every flavor that I’ve created.

8. Do you have anything new that customers should be looking out for in the future?

New popup locations! I am always looking to collaborate with other businesses. An exciting project that I’ve been working on is to expand more into branded merchandise/swag. Be on the lookout for Small and Sweet Bake gifting ideas this holiday!

9. What are you most proud of thus far?

I don’t know if I can identify my most proud achievement thus far. I find proud moments everyday. It’s super tough being a business owner so I do make it a point to celebrate even the smallest of victories/accomplishments.

10. Other than cupcakes, what's your must-eat bakery item(s) in Massachusetts?

Oh my, there are lots! Most people will say the Mille crepe cakes at Lady M and the 3D desserts from Jonquils; I’d have to agree and they’re definitely on my must list. I also love the Azuki milk buns from KoKo Bakery. Any flavor donut holes at Mass Hole Donuts. I adore the Parmesan Chive scone from Flour Bakery and I don’t even like scones! There are also several musts in Rhode Island. All of Butterbang’s croissants are to die for, but my favorites are the Yum Roll and Dainty Pig croissants. Pastiche has been around for over 30 years. All their cakes and desserts are great, but I particularly like their Lemon Mousse cake and Butterscotch Crumb cake. Finally, Wright’s Dairy Farm and Bakery is another family owned business and has been around for over 50 years. Their pumpkin roll is a seasonal favorite and a must!

Many thanks to Cindy for this interview! Small and Sweet Bake is available at popups and for delivery in the Greater Boston area and Providence County, RI! Follow them on Instagram (@smallandsweetbake) and Facebook , and check their website - smallandsweetbake.com - to stay updated.

October Flavor Lineup (pictured below):

Black Sesame Peanut Butter Cup
Black/White Rabbit Candy
Blueberry Matcha Cookies ‘n Cream
Chinese 5-Spice Apple Pie
Spicy Honey Corn Mochi
Ube Pumpkin Zebra

8 Popular Asian Treats for the Summer

info@girlsaspire.org (ASPIRE null) — Mon, 06 Sep 2021 18:45:03 GMT

Need something refreshing for the hottest season? Do you need something refreshing for the hottest season of the year? ASPIRE has you covered! We've compiled eight Asian summer favorites. Some you may know and others could be the discovery of the season!

Written by Kyra Ching, ASPIRE's Social Media Manager

1. Bubble Tea

This drink comes in many different forms. From iced tea to juice, tapioca pearls to fruit bits.Since its popularity has grown exponentially, it is commonly known to Westerners as bubble tea or boba. Zhenzhu naicha originated in Taiwan in the early 1980s. The classic drink is black tea, milk and ice; naicha literally translates to milk tea in Chinese. However, you can get many other flavors, such as brown sugar, various fruit flavors, and green tea (matcha). The first bubble tea shop was the Chun Shui Tang teahouse in Taiwan. Now there are many popular bubble tea chains, such as CoCo Fresh Tea & Juice, Gong Cha, ViVi Bubble Tea, and Kung Fu Tea! Websites like Talk Boba can help you find great boba places and recipes!

2. Ice Kacang

Also known as Ais Kacang or ABC, this is Malaysian bean ice because it’s originally served as ice and red beans. Now it comes with different fruit flavors and dressings and dressed in bright colors. Popular additions are palm seed, red bean, sweet corn, green jelly and agar agar. Some types of milk and syrup may be drizzled on top, too.

3. Cendol

Cendol is a popular Southeast Asian dessert. It is icy with pandan starch jellies and beans in coconut milk. Cendol also comes with sugar syrup or palm sugar. Pandan is a plant, and in Chinese, it is known to be extremely fragrant. It tastes sweet, and is used in Southeast and South Asian cuisine.

4. Khao Niaow Ma Muang

This is Thai mango sticky rice, made from mangoes, coconut milk, and Thai sweet rice. You can find glutinous rice or sticky rice at Asian grocery stores or large supermarkets. There is also brown sugar to add a little extra sweetness to this refreshing dish.

5. Mochi Ice Cream

If you’re craving both mochi and ice cream, this is the treat for you. It comes in many flavors and is a cold take on this classic Japanese dessert. Mochi ice cream was created by Japanese-American businesswoman Frances Hashimoto. Both ice cream mochi and regular mochi can be found in many Japanese American restaurants and U.S. grocery stores such as Trader Joe’s or Costco. One brand, My Mochi, can be found at many American retailers. Flavors include strawberry, sweet mango, double chocolate, green tea, coconut and guava. There may be more options at Asian supermarkets, with both ice cream mochi and regular mochi.

6. Halo-halo

Did you know that this means mix-mix in Tagalog, and is a popular Filipino dessert? Halo-halo can include evaporated milk, leche flan, ube (purple yam) ice cream, caramelized plantains and coconut, or macapuno. Macapuno is a naturally occurring coconut cultivar, meaning it is bred for certain traits. There are also red beans, cocoa or fruit, and shaved ice. There’s a lot in this dessert!

7. Besan Ladoos

A besan ladoo is an Indian dessert, a round ball made with besan , which means? Gram flour in Hindi. Nuts and raisins may be added, but it can also be eaten plain. These treats are popular at Indian festivals such as Diwali.

8. Falooda

Falooda comes from the Persian word faloodeh , and this treat is popular in West, Central, and South Asia. It’s a cold dessert with noodles, specifically vermicelli. It is oftentimes pink, infused with rose syrup as well as basil seeds with milk along with ice cream.

If you’re interested in any of these treats, here’s where you can find and make them!

Resources & Recipes

Bubble Tea : Boba Explained (Eater.com) ; Talkboba.com
Ice Kacang : Singapore Stories: Ice Kachang (Serious Eats)
Cendol : Cendol is the Signature Sweet of Malaysia (Saveur)
Khao Niaw Ma Muang : Thai Mango Sticky Rice Recipe (The Spruce Eats)
Halo-Halo : Behold Halo-Halo (The Atlantic)
Besan Ladoos : Besan Ladoo Recipe (Cook with Manali)
Falooda : Falooda in New York (Yelp)

Celebrating Lunar New Year in 2021

info@girlsaspire.org (ASPIRE null) — Thu, 11 Feb 2021 22:51:57 GMT

Written by Kyra Ching, ASPIRE's Social Media Manager

What is Lunar New Year?

Lunar New Year starts with the first new moon of the year. Other names commonly associated with the holiday are Chinese New Year and Chinese Spring Festival. The dates vary annually due to the moon cycles, generally between January X and February Y. This year, it starts on February 12th! Lunar New Year is celebrated by many Asian families around the world and is a popular celebration in emigrant Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese communities.

How is Lunar New Year celebrated? It depends.

Lunar New Year includes many rituals and traditions! Here are some major ones:

Seeing family and friends

People will share their wealth with others by handing out red money envelopes. The practice varies among cultures. For example, Cantonese folks receive money until marriage (upon which then the couple starts giving envelopes), and Taiwanese folks start giving money once they work. No matter the culture though, there is one common intent: wishing everyone prosperity.
In Korean families, they may use satchels and the money may come with messages and blessings for the new year.

Putting up new decor

Lots of red is incorporated into people's decor for Lunar New Year! Red is meant to keep the beast Nian away. Chinese families may also use floral arrangements to decorate, too. In Vietnam, apricot and peach blossoms are significant. In North Vietnam, local legend has associated the peach blossom with powerful deities that protected the people of the region. The apricot blossom is considered a symbol of spring in Southern Vietnam. In Korea, birds are used in decoration; cranes represent longevity and magpies mean good fortune.
It’s common to clean in the days leading up to Lunar New Year and to buy new clothes. The reason is to clean out bad luck and start the year anew.
There are also Lunar New Year markets that sell various products needed. Aside from red envelopes, people like to buy new decorations, firecrackers, incense, flowers, and fruit. For example, in Hong Kong, it's common to visit the city’s flower markets. Popular flower choices will include orchids and cherry blossoms. These 花市 (flower markets) will have lots of goods that feature the year's zodiac animals.

Praying at the temple

Worshippers will light incense and pray for blessings and luck during their temple visits. Depending on the temple, there may be dragon and lion dances nearby!

Other traditions specific to Korean culture include wearing the hanbok , which is traditional dress. There is also seh bae , a ceremonial ritual with a focus on the family and ancestors.

What does the year of the Ox mean?

There is a Chinese word, shuxiang, which means the animal assigned to one’s birth year. One of the most prominent myths behind the Chinese Zodiac is the Great Race. The first 12 animals to complete the race earned spots on the 12-year zodiac calendar, which is why the cycle repeats every 12 years. The story also incorporates the animals’ personalities into how they complete the race.

2021 is the year of the Ox. During the Great Race, the Ox assisted the small Rat across the river. The Rat leapt ahead at the end, securing 1st place. Still, the Ox claimed 2nd thanks to great strength. After the Tiger took 3rd, the Rabbit finished 4th by using stones and logs to cross the river. The Dragon came in 5th, having stopped to help others along the way. The Horse was a strong competitor, but the Snake snuck past the Horse at the very end and secured 6th place. The Horse finished 7th. The Sheep, Rooster, and Monkey worked together to cross the river on a raft. The Sheep was given 8th place, followed by the Monkey and Rooster in 9th and 10th places. The Dog preferred to play in the water instead of racing and finished in 11th place. The Pig finished 12th, after eating and napping along the way.

As the Chinese zodiac story spread through Asia, different cultures made modifications to appeal to their communities.

How will COVID-19 affect Lunar New Year celebrations?

Lunar New Year, especially in China, is the busiest traveling period of the year. However, COVID-19 has led to severe travel restrictions, impacting traditions for millions of families worldwide. Many Asian communities are resorting to virtual Lunar New Year celebrations, including workshops, performances, and more. Specific resources will be linked at the bottom.

How to support Asian American businesses during Lunar New Year?

Throughout the pandemic, Asian Americans have faced varying forms of discrimination, and Chinatown businesses have faced economic and social setbacks. This past week, Asian American activists and public figures have condemned the latest wave of violence against Asian Americans. In New York City and Oakland, grassroots organizations, such as Welcome to Chinatown and Save Our Chinatowns , are using Lunar New Year celebrations to support struggling Chinatowns in the US. These groups are raising money to keep Chinatown businesses open, as well as protect locals from xenophobic aggression.

Check out the resources below for ways to celebrate Lunar New Year in 2021, as well as support Asian American communities during and after the pandemic!

Celebrating Lunar New Year:

Boston:

New York:

Learning about and supporting Asian American communities:

pbs.org/ancestorsintheamericas/aahistorysites.html

browngirlmagazine.com/2020/06/7-asian-american-advocacy-organizations-you-have-to-follow-in-2020

Johns Hopkins COVID-19 and the Dynamics of Race and Othering

Sources:

https://www.nbcnews.com/news/asian-america/lunar-new-year-celebrations-year-aim-help-struggling-chinatowns-n1256525

https://abcnews.go.com/International/chinas-lunar-year-worlds-largest-annual-migration/story?id=60775990

https://www.timeout.com/things-to-do/most-beautiful-lunar-new-year-celebrations

https://www.traveldudes.com/vietnamese-tree-tradition-for-tet-lunar-new-year/

https://www.thespruceeats.com/korean-new-year-celebrations-2118611

https://ed.ted.com/lessons/the-myth-behind-the-chinese-zodiac-megan-campisi-and-pen-pen-chen

https://www.tripsavvy.com/the-top-traditions-of-chinese-new-year-4157975

https://www.tripsavvy.com/gifts-chinese-new-year-spring-festival-1494984

https://www.timeout.com/hong-kong/things-to-do/cancelled-chinese-new-year-events-and-traditions-for-2021

https://theculturetrip.com/asia/china/articles/10-chinese-new-year-traditions/

https://www.timeout.com/hong-kong/things-to-do/chinese-new-year-in-hong-kong

Supporting Local Restaurants: TSISMIS New York

Thu, 28 Jan 2021 01:18:19 GMT

Read our interview with executive chef Jappy Afzelius!

Written by Kyra Ching, ASPIRE's Social Media Manager

We’re excited to start a series to promote Asian- & Asian American-owned restaurants to help bring awareness to them during and after the pandemic! At the end of 2020, ASPIRE reached out to TSISMIS NYC, a Filipino restaurant in the Lower East Side, to reflect on an unprecedented year for restaurants worldwide. Read our interview with executive chef Jappy Afzelius.

Q: This past year has been unprecedented for everyone, especially restaurants. What has changed for your restaurant from the beginning to the end of the year?

A: This year has been extremely difficult for restaurants as it offered an unprecedented set of challenges and the most difficult thing was learning to pivot to the new normal. With indoor dining almost non-existent the whole year, we had to completely learn to transition and capitalize on our online platform and streamline the menu. Focusing on contactless service like delivery and pick up, selling gift cards, creating an outdoor scene, and altering our menu to feed the front-line workers and work-from-home employees. It’s been tough but with the support of the community, we were able to adapt and pivot TSISMIS NYC to navigate these trying times.

Q: For an Asian American restaurant in particular, do you feel you have faced specific challenges during the pandemic?

A: Yes, specifically being a Filipino restaurant serving a cuisine that has not broken through the mainstream market yet as opposed to our South-East Asian neighbors like Thai cuisine. It’s been twice as difficult to get customers but with that being said we had to remain true to our vision in promoting Philippine food and culture in New York City.

Q: According to your website, “tsismis” means gossip or idle talk. It is also the namesake of your restaurant; how has social distancing affected the experience of TSISMIS?

A: Social distancing has tremendously affected the experience at TSISMIS NYC because we had built a casual environment inside the restaurant that focused on conversation and upscale Philippine cuisine with wine pairing. Luckily when outdoor dining opened and limited capacity indoor dining followed, our patrons slowly came back. Not as much as before, of course, but thankfully the “Tsismis” has already been spread pre-COVID times and we were able to build a relationship with our clients from both the Lower East Side and Filipino-American community.

Q: Not only is TSISMIS a local restaurant, but you also promote the use of local and sustainable ingredients. How can people support local farms during this time?

A: This has been vital to our operation as we source both locally and organically for our menu. Local farms and producers, like restaurants, would need all the help they can get so the best way is for people to shop from local farms and producers when they are in the supermarkets and to visit farmers markets when possible. Being situated here in New York City, we have an abundance of local organic markets like Union Square Market and other establishments like Smorgasborg that support local small businesses like us.

Q: Are there any particular farmer’s markets or vendors you recommend?

A: There are quite a few but my favorite would always be to go to Union Square Greenmarket for organic seasonal produce and of course going around the various small vendors around Chinatown as well.

Q: As the Executive Chef, do you have any favorites from your menu? Why?

A: This is a tough question as I am fond of our entire menu but if I had to choose it would be our “Kale Laing.” I am very proud of this dish as it was one of my favorites to eat growing up and i believe it represents the Philippines very well as it contains all the flavors that define our cuisine like “bagoong” fermented shrimp paste, “tinapa” smoked fish, ginger, coconut milk and “sili labuyo” - birds eye chili. [According to TSISMIS NYC’s menu, Kale Laing is “local kale sautéed with shrimp paste and coconut milk.”]

Q: Do you have any advice for Filipino-Americans who’d like to enter the restaurant industry?

A: The best advice I can give is to be passionate - give it 110% your best daily. It’s a tough industry but if you sacrifice, persevere and focus on helping raise [awareness and interest in] Philippine cuisine to the world then it becomes a rewarding and fulfilling experience.

Q: What would you like our audience to know about your restaurant and Filipino culture, in general?

A: TSISMIS is a very simple place where we showcase traditional dishes from the Philippines that we ate with our families growing up and is all about sharing Philippine food and culture in New York City. The best thing I can say is that Philippine cuisine is wonderful and has so many exotic flavors to showcase; it’s new and exciting. Please come and give it a try and I am certain that it will exceed your expectations and you will definitely have an unforgettable experience.

Many thanks to Jappy and the TSISMIS team for this interview! TSISMIS NYC is available for delivery via Grubhub or Doordash . For pickup, use their online ordering system or call. Not in New York or not ordering out but still want to support? You can order gift cards and amazing merchandise !

TSISMIS NYC socials: Instagram , Facebook , YouTube

Enjoyed the food? Leave a review!

- Yelp

- Open Table

- Trip Advisor

- You can also leave a review on Google by searching TSISMIS.

Farmer’s markets and other related resources in NYC: grownyc.org/greenmarket

For more information on the Union Square Greenmarket: unionsquarenyc.org/events/2019/3/27/union-square-greenmarket

What is Filipino Christmas?

info@girlsaspire.org (ASPIRE null) — Sat, 19 Dec 2020 04:00:18 GMT

Written by Kyra Ching, ASPIRE's Social Media Manager

Christmas in the Philippines is celebrated not only on December 25 - it can last for months! Filipino Christmas traditions can start as early as September and last until January. It’s the longest Christmas season in the world.

While many Filipinos live and work abroad, this time is anticipated for people to return to their families. The lengthy Christmas period would give people time to plan their Christmas, including where they will spend the holiday and gifts they need to get. Some Filipino Christmas traditions are:

Simbang Gabi - Holy Mass is celebrated from December 16th to 24th.

Goodies such as rice cakes and tsokolate, Filipino hot chocolate, are sold outside churches. Churches are lavishly decorated, often with life-size nativity scenes.

The capital of the Philippines, Manila, is decorated with Christmas lights. About a million Filipinos will visit Manila in most Decembers. They host Christmas parades from September to December, too!

Did you know returning Filipinos are called bagong bayani aka the “new heroes"?

Filipino musicians and performing artists come to countless venues, booked throughout the Christmas season. They play classic songs like Noche Buena , which is centered around the family meal during Christmas Eve.
During the Christmas season, especially Noche Buena, or Filipino Christmas Eve, families gather to eat dishes such as Christmas ham, Keso de Bola, Pancit Malabon, sweet spaghetti, Lechon, Buko Pandan, Kakanin, and fruit salad.

Keso de Bola is the local name for Edam cheese.
Pancit Malabon is a yellow-colored, festive noodle dish.
Lechon is a pork dish.
Buko Pandan is a pandan flavored gelatin mixed with coconut and cream.
Kakanin is a rice dessert.

Due to the pandemic and typhoons, this year has been extremely challenging for Filipino families and communities. Donate and support Filipino organizations and small businesses as well as for natural disaster relief.

Filipino organizations and businesses in:

New England: pamanainc.org/organizations-interest-groups
Boston: bosfilipinos.com
NYC/Jersey City: ny.eater.com/maps/best-filipino-restaurants-nyc
New York: thrillist.com/eat/new-york/best-filipino-food-in-nyc and theculturetrip.com/north-america/usa/new-york/new-york-city/articles/the-top-10-filipino-food-locations-in-new-york-city

Natural Disaster Relief links:

Sources:

https://www.thekitchn.com/christmas-in-the-philippines-christmas-around-the-world-198478

https://theculturetrip.com/asia/philippines/articles/this-country-has-the-longest-christmas-on-earth/

https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/calgary/philippines-lantern-kits-typhoons-donate-1.5820421

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/nov/18/philippine-tradition-of-long-christmas-survives-covid-and-typhoons

https://christmas.365greetings.com/christmas-songs/tagalog-christmas-songs.html

https://www.nationalgeographic.com/photography/proof/2017/12/christmas-philippines-diaspora-overseas-workers/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z0QI5u5TCUY

https://www.vice.com/en/article/k7a83w/filipino-christmas-ad-disney

https://www.thespruceeats.com/philippine-noche-buena-feast-3030319

What Is Diwali?

info@girlsaspire.org (ASPIRE null) — Sat, 14 Nov 2020 17:02:55 GMT

Written by Kyra Ching, ASPIRE's Social Media Manager

Diwali is the "Festival of Lights" celebrated in India and by those of Indian heritage around the world. Also called Dipawali, the festival gets its name from the row of clay lamps Indians light outside their homes to defend against spiritual darkness. Diwali is celebrated over the course of five days. Celebrations vary in different regions of India, but some common traditions for Diwali include:

1) House Cleaning - Diwali cleaning can include decluttering, painting the house, and re-decorating. It depends on the household’s budget.

2) Shopping - For men and women, It's common to wear new clothes on this occasion. For women in particular, it's a time to debut new outfits.

3) Eating Diwali Sweets - Diwali is celebrated with a lot of food, especially sweets. These treats include chakli, peda, barfi, and laddoo. Chakli is a fried dough snack and peda is a Indian sweet usually containing spices and nuts. Barfi is a milk-based candy and laddoo is a sphere-shaped sweet usually containing nuts and/or dried raisins.

4) Creating Rangoli - Rangoli is a colorful artwork made using colored rice powder, sand, quartz powder and/or flower petals.

5) Exchanging Gifts - It's a lovely tradition to give gifts to family, friends, neighbors, and coworkers because it shows love, respect, thankfulness, and togetherness.

6) Playing Cards - According to folklore, it's said that by playing cards, Goddess Lakshmi is attracted as everybody gets an equal chance to win and get rich in happiness, prosperity, and economic status. It's also the perfect way to spend time with family and friends!

Support Indian restaurants!

Boston

New York

Sources:

https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/explore/diwali/

https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/diwali-2020-covid-celebrations/index.html

https://theculturetrip.com/asia/india/articles/5-diwali-customs-and-traditions-you-should-know-about/

https://iagb.org/

https://www.popsugar.com/smart-living/best-south-asian-businesses-to-support-for-diwali-47942109

5 Halloween-Like Traditions Around The World

info@girlsaspire.org (ASPIRE null) — Fri, 30 Oct 2020 21:47:07 GMT

Written by Noel Zhang

Celebrated all around the world, Halloween originated with the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain in Ireland. As the birthplace of what we know to be modern Halloween, Samhain was celebrated by lighting bonfires and wearing costumes to scare off ghosts. Over time, Samhain traditions have evolved into the activities that we all are familiar with: trick-or-treating, dressing up in costume, carving pumpkins, etc. However, many countries across the world have their own celebratory origins. Learn about five foreign Halloween-like traditions:

Stay safe and spooky! Happy Halloween!

Image sources:

- https://fluentkey.com/blog/dia-de-muertos-day-of-the-dead-video-resources/

- https://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-pitru-paksha-2018-all-you-need-to-know-about-shraddha-this-year-check-dates-time-and-rituals-2667635

- https://www.legacyoftaste.com/2017/08/23/worship-ancestors-hungry-ghost-festival/

- https://www.herculture.org/blog/2018/10/31/unveiling-the-spirit-of-halloween-cultures-from-around-the-world

- https://www.polamjournal.com/Library/Holidays/Zaduszki--All_Soul-s_Day/zaduszki--all_soul-s_day.html

Mental Health During COVID-19

info@girlsaspire.org (ASPIRE null) — Tue, 13 Oct 2020 20:25:34 GMT

How has COVID-19 impacted mental health?

Written by Kyra Ching, ASPIRE's Social Media Manager

COVID-19 has presented a new reality for people around the world. As everyone continues to deal with a new lifestyle, there are increasing concerns about the mental health impacts during this time. Therefore, it’s important to take care of ourselves in every way possible. Here are a few ways to do self-care and maintain your mental health as much as possible.

1) Take each day one at a time

It’s okay to plan ahead and have both short term and long term goals. However, it’s also important to keep expectations realistic during such an uncertain time period. Between upcoming elections and the pandemic, it is understandable to worry about the future. That said, focus on what you can do now to better yourself for the future.

2) Exercise

As gyms have closed and many people are staying at home, exercise can seem more inconvenient than ever. However, it is important. Not only does exercise maintain physical fitness, but there are mental health benefits as well. Even 30 minutes of movement a day can affect your happiness! With social distancing, there are tons of online and at-home options for exercise plans and classes.

3) Set boundaries

Regardless of if you’re a student, professional, or both, it can be hard to tell when your workday ends at home. Sometimes it can seem like we should be more productive because we’re working from home. Set boundaries at home by implementing on-off hours, dedicated to working and oneself. It' s also totally acceptable to allocate time to communicate with friends and family or engage in a hobby.

4) Keep routines

While setting boundaries to maintain self-care are important, it is also essential to stay diligent. It can be easy to lose motivation while alone, but setting a routine can be helpful. Make a schedule of when you’re going to wake up and accomplish certain tasks.

5) Find creative outlets

Frustration and distress are part of life, and this is more true than ever during a pandemic. It can be difficult to find healthy ways to express these feelings, so finding a creative outlet will be a source of happiness. This could include activities like writing or drawing. Perhaps you can also find groups online for a sense of community while doing activities in isolation. The works you produce don’t have to be aesthetically pleasing; they can be, but they’re primarily for the creator’s emotional benefit. Also, if you want to learn something new, there are many free classes online now!

Stay safe, and please take care of yourself. This means attending to both mental and physical health!

AAPI & BIPOC Mental Health Resources:

Massachusetts Department of Mental Health

Emergency/Crisis Service: Call 1 (877) 382-1609 - available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year

Boston's MGH Center for Cross-Cultural Student Emotional Wellness
East Boston Neighborhood Health Center - some language interpreter options
Dorchester's DotHouse Health
Everett's Cambridge Health Alliance (CHA) - Specialty Mental Health Clinics
Lowell Community Health Center (Metta Health Center) - more than 28 different languages
Lynn Community Health Center (Behavioral Health Services with Bilingual & Bicultural Services) - languages include, Spanish, Khmer, Portuguese, Russian, and Arabic
South Cove Community Health Center (Chinese) - Other locations in Chinatown (Quincy)
Revere's Cambridge Health Alliance (CHA) - Specialty Mental Health Clinics
Somerville's Cambridge Health Alliance (CHA) - Specialty Mental Health Clinics

National Organizations:

Hotlines (for immediate help and referral):

Asian LifeNet Hotline (24 hours)

(Cantonese, Mandarin, Japanese, Korean, Fujianese are offered)

1-877-990-8585

National Suicide Prevention Hotline

(More than 150 languages are offered)

1-800-273-8255 (TALK)

Call 911.

Applying to Colleges During the COVID-19 Pandemic

info@girlsaspire.org (ASPIRE null) — Mon, 28 Sep 2020 21:46:59 GMT

Written by Noel Zhang

As much as the college admissions process has been stressful in previous years, many students may now be forced to submit college applications without standardized test scores and have no clue how the pandemic will affect college admission decisions. With all of these changes, many seniors’ to-do lists have been thrown off and students are now wondering “What’s next?”. As a starting point, seniors should:

1. Stay updated on recent changes

The more you know about what’s going on, the better and more prepared you will feel. Keep a lookout for information and news on your prospective schools to make sure you have the most accurate and updated information for the application process. You can stay up-to-date with a school by signing up for their email list, checking their website, and following their social media.

2. Research policy changes for standardized testing

With the cancelations of both ACT and SAT tests across the country, many seniors may not get an opportunity to take the test or to improve their test scores. Many colleges have taken this into account and announced that sending in test scores will be optional and won’t be held against you in admissions if you do not submit them. Make sure you have done your research for which schools have gone test-optional and whether their policies for accepting scores have changed.

3. Assess which of your prospective schools will be viewing AP and IB courses/tests

The alteration of College Board and IB 2020 exam policies will influence the way these scores will be weighed. Depending on how your schools now give credit for and view your AP/IB scores, you may want to consider how this will affect the school year and summer plans (whether that be enrolling in more or less AP/IB courses or taking additional test prep).

4. Evaluate all your options

With the unpredictability of quarantines and the pandemic, make sure you have considered all the options available to you for next year. Whether you consider taking a gap year or decide to focus on applying to in-state schools instead of out-of state-schools, it is crucial that you find time to figure out what is best for you amidst the ever-changing world.

5. Start prepping NOW!

Although procrastination may be at an all-time high and many things have been delayed, universities and schools around the country have not announced plans to delay the admissions process. This means that you should not wait to get started on your applications! If anything, you should get a head start in order to be prepared.

To fight the urge to put this process to the side, you may want to:

Set deadlines for yourself
Hold yourself accountable

Have friends and family hold you accountable

Reward yourself occasionally

Now that early action deadlines are approaching, I wish everyone a successful college application season!

Read our blog about ' Staying Focused with Virtual Learning '!

Sources:

https://www.ivywise.com/blog/applying-to-college-during-covid-19/

https://www.usnews.com/education/blogs/college-admissions-playbook/articles/college-admissions-steps-for-rising-seniors-in-the-coronavirus-era

https://www.wbur.org/hereandnow/2020/07/06/covid-19-college-application-tips

The 2020 Census: Why the AAPI Community Counts

info@girlsaspire.org (ASPIRE null) — Fri, 18 Sep 2020 02:18:38 GMT

What is the Census?

The United States Census Bureau conducts this brief survey that counts everyone who is living in the country. The Census happens every 10 years and captures all individuals residing in the U.S., regardless of their citizenship, socioeconomic status, or ethnicity.

Importance of Filling out the Census

The results of the Census inform the government on how to appropriately distribute resources to communities across the country for the next decade. These resources include public support for our representation in government, healthcare systems, welfare programs, and educational funding. Historically, many of us live in “hard-to-count” areas, partially because of barriers that have led to the misinformation about who can participate in the Census.

AAPI Community & the U.S. Census

The AAPI community makes up only about 7 percent of the U.S. population and is considered one the fastest growing groups in the country. Without all AAPIs counted, we will not have fair and representative data on the AAPI community in the Census. Therefore, all of us need to be counted not just for us, but for the generations after us.

Fill out the 2020 Census & Stay Involved!

- Have you filled out the 2020 Census? Check out: my2020census.gov

- Are your registered to vote? Check out: usa.gov/register-to-vote

- Interested in learning more about the APIA Vote and why WE matter? Check out: apiavote.org

- Need help telling your family & friends about the 2020 Census? Try this short video with translations in 26 different languages.

Staying Focused with Virtual Learning

info@girlsaspire.org (ASPIRE null) — Tue, 25 Aug 2020 10:46:14 GMT

Written by Noel Zhang

With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, many schools and universities have been forced to turn to virtual learning. Although students across the nation, including myself, were excited to be out of school and to take classes from the comfort of our bedrooms, learning at home has been more challenging than expected. Since this is uncharted territory for most students (and working professionals!), here are five tips to help you stay motivated and focused:

1. Have a Designated Workplace (that’s not your bed!!)

While the thought of studying or working in bed sounds excellent, laying in your PJs in bed is far too distracting. Having a designated, comfortable workspace will allow you to separate your schoolwork from your own space and will enable you to better concentrate on the task at hand. It is also more efficient to keep your workspace separate from your bedroom to avoid the temptation of crawling into bed to avoid school.

2. Identify and Remove Distractions

Learning at home requires an immense amount of self-control. I know that when I have my phone next to me while doing schoolwork, I am far too tempted to check my notifications. And more often than not, I catch myself going down an Instagram rabbit hole. To effectively learn and study class materials, you shouldn’t allow yourself to be distracted by social media. If you have trouble staying focused, try the Pomodoro Method to increase productivity & efficiency by arranging how you work.

- Set a timer for 25 minutes and work uninterrupted for the scheduled period.

- Take a five-minute break to grab a coffee, check emails, or do something else.

- Once you’ve completed four work sessions, treat yourself to a longer, 15-minute break.

3. Reward Yourself

To avoid burnout, make sure you are rewarding yourself for your hard work! Whether that be spending time with your family, going for a walk, or watching Netflix, gratifying yourself and giving yourself breaks will help you maintain a healthy relationship with school, homework, and/or work.

4. Set Goals

Setting small, achievable goals every day can prevent you from feeling as if you’re drowning in work, and can also help avoid procrastination! These small successes will help you achieve your higher goals.

5. Form A Study Group

To avoid feeling isolated, form study groups, and interact with your classmates and professors! The collaboration from study groups will not only help you learn challenging material and understand concepts you are struggling with, but also will allow you to socialize with your friends and keep your focus high. If you’re working full-time, set up a Zoom lunch or happy hour with your coworkers!

Sources:

https://www.casita.com/blog/tips-to-stay-focused-on-your-online-classes-

https://www.northeastern.edu/graduate/blog/time-management-tips-online-students/

http://learnmore.uncg.edu/blog/6-strategies-to-stay-motivated-while-learning-online

ASPIRING TALKS #4 Recap!

info@girlsaspire.org (ASPIRE null) — Sun, 02 Aug 2020 16:30:13 GMT

-Colleges and Careers-

Written by Noel Zhang

Big thank you to everyone who attended the fourth ASPIRING TALK! We hope everyone gained valuable insight into building relationships virtually and college/career advice.

Speakers Tiffany Chhuor and Jessica Nguyen provided their advice on navigating life and careers through social distancing and quarantine based on their wide range of experiences. The main takeaways from this talk were:

Explore your interests. Be open to possibilities and browse outside interests! Side hobbies and interests are not only a great way to find new opportunities but can also be admirable resume builders.
Build relationships and network. Networking may help you land job opportunities and allow you to find new mentors with experience in your field. When building these relationships:

Research is pivotal! Researching will help you to find information that allows you to personally connect with who you are meeting.
Don't have a mindset of earning an internship/job when meeting with someone. Networking should not be purely transactional, so think of these individuals as people, too!
Keep in touch with people you meet, whether it be through emails, calls, LinkedIn, or check-ins.

Practice self care! It’s a great way to reset your mind for a new day and can help you distinguish work life from home life. Ms. Chhuor, specifically, likes to change into work clothes at the beginning of the day and change into comfortable, lounge clothes after the workday. Differentiating between her work environment and home environment helps her keep a healthy balance of work-life and home-life to get rid of zoom exhaustion.

Thanks to all of those who attended our most recent Aspiring Talk! Can't wait to see you all soon :)

Fighting Dual Bias as a member of the Asian American Community

info@girlsaspire.org (ASPIRE null) — Sat, 20 Jun 2020 21:26:43 GMT

A celebration of Pride Month!

Written by Kyra Ching, ASPIRE's Social Media Manager

What does LGBTQ2S+ mean?

The LGBTQ2S+ community is representative of those whose sexualities and/or gender identities do not conform to non-trans heteronormativity . While sexuality and gender identity are often talked about together, they are two separate concepts that should not be conflated. The 2S stands for Two-Spirit in respect to Native American culture; in context of spirit, those who are androgynous or intersex are seen as doubly blessed.

What’s happening?

Inequities impact the LGBTQ2S+ people’s lives fairly early. There is a lack of protective policies and inconsistent enforcement of pre-existing policies for LGBTQ2S+ youth; they are also vulnerable to bullying that ranges from verbal derision to physical abuse. Children of LGBTQ2S+ people are also ostracized. A widespread lack of LGBTQ2S+ resources in American schools in health and sexuality education contributes to ignorance and erasure of LGBTQ2S+ identities. Outside of school, LGBTQ2S+ youth are more likely to be alienated by their families, making them more vulnerable to desolate circumstances such as homelessness . In the child welfare system , they face unique challenges and disparities in their experiences. There are also inequalities in the criminal justice system , an issue that is further exacerbated for transgender people, specifically transgender women of color.

LGBTQ2S+ people are more likely to be fired or harassed in their workplace. Not only are they discriminated against as workers, but they are treated unequally as consumers as well. There has been news attention to the denial of services, whether it’s healthcare , housing , or at a bakery . LGBTQ2S+ rights have been grouped with overall civil rights, but many advocates want explicit mention to eliminate any flexibility of interpretation when it comes to LGBTQ2S+ rights.

For transgender Americans, lack of explicit coverage under civil rights acts enables even more unique obstacles. Transgender people are underserved by many sectors of society including the healthcare system. The lack of accessibility to proper identification documents makes it possible to deny them a multitude of services. Normalizing the blatant discrimination of certain members of society is detrimental to the values of freedom America boasts.

LGBTQ2S+ AAPI people are dealing with the same issues as the rest of the community plus the additional burden that comes with intersectionality. AAPI people face higher probability of discrimination in regards to insufficient systematic protections concerning gender/sexuality. This includes racial and anti-LGBTQ2S+ abuse, difficulty accessing resources due to language barriers, a lack of humane immigration policies, specifically for the undocumented, and more. In Asia, countries vary in their approaches to LGBTQ2S+ policies. Last year, Taiwan legalized same-sex marriage and had their first Pride event, giving LGBTQ2S+ Asians and their allies hope for the rest of the continent. Although same-sex marriage and some protections are provided for LGBTQ2S+ Americans, some AAPI may have discourse with their families about LGBTQ2S+ rights. The initiative ‘Being LGBTI in Asia’ has multilingual reports for various countries in Asia. It’s imperative to understand the diversity of the LGBTQ2s+ community. Different members of the community may face varying challenges based on sexuality, gender identity as well as race, religion, immigration status and more. It’s imperative that community members of all backgrounds are represented in the push for LGBTQ2S+ rights.

Here are some ways you can be an AAPI LGBTQ2S+ Ally moving forward:

1) Be open minded. Listen and engage in meaningful conversations with LGBTQ2S+ people in your life. It also means avoiding the assumption that somebody is a certain gender or sexual orientation. If someone tells you their identity, that is how they choose to identify. It is your responsibility as an ally to learn; however, nowadays there are many resources to familiarize yourself with. The sources used for this blog are all linked for those who wish to learn more, whether in the text or at the bottom.

Basic terms (link here) and data
Safe School Legislation: read more here
State Maps here
Mapping transgender equality here
Understand the Transgender Community here
Some local resources:

Massachusetts
Boston
New York : Includes NYC, Long Island, Western/Central NY, Westchester
Los Angeles
Nationwide

2) Encourage others , whether it’s your family or friends, to be inclusive of the LGBTQ2S+ community; find out more here .

3) LGBTQ2S+ topics are really underrepresented in school settings. Learn not only about LGBTQ2S+ history, but what exposure to historical representation means for LGBTQ students here from Gladd.

4) Share resources that promote the support and inclusion of LGBTQ2S+ AAPI in all aspects of their identity, like this one here .

A few more include:

Understanding the transgender community: read more here
Being Asian/Pacific Islander and LGBTQ: read more here
Being LGBTI in Asia: learn more here

5) Break down language barriers when having these conversations. NQAPIA has a collection of multilingual resources including videos, workshops and documents.

6) Read up on LGBTQ2S+ legislation in the United States. If you’re not satisfied with the non-discrimination polices provided for LGBTQ2S+ Americans, contact your representatives. Find out how here .

7) Support LGBTQ2S+ businesses:

19 LGBTQ owned brands
14 LGBTQ Owned Beauty brands
8 LGBTQ-Friendly Asian-Owned Brands
There are also brands that support LGBTQ2S+ folks. This list includes a few companies, who have contributed substantially to LGBTQ2S+funds/causes.

8) Donate directly to LGBTQ2S+ organizations. You can check out a few LGBTQ2S+ resources here .

9) Understand boundaries as an ally. Here is an article about some things to (and not to) do as an ally.

10) Pride Month ends by July, but LGBTQ2S+ people should still be able to hold pride in who they are year-round. Allyship is not an event, nor is it conditional. Be consistent and supportive to provide a safe space for those who need it.

A Guide to Being an AAPI Ally to Black Lives Matter

info@girlsaspire.org (ASPIRE null) — Mon, 08 Jun 2020 01:01:32 GMT

How ASPIRE is taking action for the Black Lives Matter movement

Written by Kyra Ching, ASPIRE's Social Media Manager

To understand how Asians are intertwined in the fight for justice of Black people, it requires an understanding of American civil rights history. The efforts from the Black community, including protests and sit-ins, had, and continue to impact Asians in the U.S today.

The Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) population consists of Americans who trace their heritage to one or more Asian countries including, but not limited to, Cambodia, China, India, Japan, Malaysia, Pakistan, the Philippine Islands, Thailand and Vietnam. It also includes people from the Pacific Islands like the Hawaiian Islands, Samoa, Guam, and Tonga.

By the mid 1900s, Black and Asian citizens were fighting many similar injustices and there were times when members of both groups came together to persevere by helping each other. A figure that was truly representative of this was Grace Lee Boggs. After moving to the Midwest due to lack of work opportunities caused by discrimination, Grace connected with the black community in Chicago who were fighting poor living conditions. After moving to Detroit, Grace met her husband, James Boggs, with whom she would advocate for shared causes including Black Power, Asian Americans, and feminism. She has been associated with both Malcom X and Martin Luther King, Jr. After Grace died at 100 years old, she was commended by 44th President Barack Obama for her leadership in civil rights. Grace Lee and James Boggs were one of many examples of Asian American activists supporting and joining forces with Black activists to fight for the same causes, and this has impacted our community greatly.

The Asian Civil Rights Movement grew after taking inspiration from Black Civil Rights Movements. They started protesting and organizing in ways that drew parallels to similar events in Black and Latino communities. There were people arrested, including Peter Yew who was brutalized by the police after a traffic mishap between a white person and a Chinese person in 1975. This provoked a protest rally of 20,000 that led to Chinatown’s businesses shutting their doors, with signs that read “Closed to Protest Police Brutality.” After weeks of public pressure, charges against Yew were dropped. This was not unlike how Rosa Parks’ arrest sparked a boycott that inflicted serious repercussions on the transit system, leading to desegregation of public transportation. However, the incident made it clear that Asian Americans were willing to protest for their rights.

So for Asian American and Pacific Islanders who may claim it’s not our race, not our problem or that we do not owe anything to anyone else --- is that true? Objectively speaking, we have benefited from Black activism. They have inspired our community in the past to fight for our own beliefs. Asian Americans protesting has had an impact on our community so if nothing else, we should at least have empathy for those doing the same.

It would benefit Asian Americans to advocate for the racial equality and equity for all, not just when applicable to us. AAPIs were forced to confront the underlying racism that the 2020 pandemic exposed. Coronavirus has affected the entire world but has had especially drastic consequences for Asians in Western countries. There has been a significant avoidance of Asian restaurants, bullying of Asian students, and assault cases against Asian families. In reaction to such hatred, Asian Americans have been understandably pained. Some members of our community have questioned allies’ support despite public condemnation of malicious treatment by people of all ethnic backgrounds.

Allyship needs to be mutually beneficial. If we demand other communities’ obligation to support us in the name of fighting racism, we are obligated to support them in their fight against racial injustice. When Asian communities were experiencing racism, black people condemned the discrimination and supported Asian businesses and restaurants. Furthermore, Black communities have been hit extremely hard by the pandemic. Multiple reports have shown Black Americans contracting and dying from COVID-19 at higher rates than other races. There's also less testing in Black communities due to the unequal access to healthcare that has been an ongoing issue.

That said, how can Asian Americans support the Black community during this time?

Step 1) Learn about the Black Lives Matter movement, and share with others. Black Lives Matter is about the long and difficult history of oppression and discrimination Black men, women, and non-binary have experienced in America, a country built on systemic racism. George Floyd and Breonna Taylor are just two of the thousands of names that have lost their lives in the hands of police. Some have become a hashtag, but for most, we will never know their names.

List of anti-racism resources , including books to read, TV shows and movies to watch, and podcasts to listen
List of Asian American allyship actions

Step 2) Challenge the model minority myth and confront any bias you may have normalized about other ethnic groups as well. Here are some resources to check out.

Learn about some Asian American women who had a massive impact here .
Learn to unpacking the model minority myth and why it’s problematic here .

Step 3) Sign petitions! This is a quick and easy way to show your support. A few causes like George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery and Get Officers Charged are on this list of petitions: https://blacklivesmatters.carrd.co/#petitions . There are also plenty of petitions that still haven't reached their goals, and a lot of them can be found in Twitter threads. Here's one to help get you started.

Step 4) Show solidarity on social media. Support the movement, share resources, and use hashtags. If you are not Black, please use your platform to amplify the voices of the Black community first. Follow Black leaders, activists, and creators - share their posts and articles to learn about their stories and perspectives.

Step 5) If you can afford it, donate to the Black Lives Matter movement. There are numerous local and national organizations that need funding. like Black Lives Matter, NAACP Legal Defense Fund, American Civil Liberties Union, and many mutual aid funds and bail funds. You can also watch YouTube videos to donate to various causes.

List of Massachusetts and Boston-area organizations
Directory of bail funds nationwide
More places accepting donations

Step 6) Support Black people, including, but limited to: Black business owners, Black authors, Black creators, Black chefs, Black directors, Black actors, and much more. From small businesses to restaurants, see which places are taking orders online or offering delivery and takeout.

Black-owned restaurants in Boston
Black-owned businesses in Boston
Black-owned businesses in Cambridge
Black-owned independent bookstores , including Frugal Bookstore in Boston
Black-owned beauty brands and fashion brands
Black-owned businesses

Step 7) Don’t be a bystander. Call out racism and have conversations. If Black people are being discriminated against, speak up. Earn the trust of the Black community, recognize entitlement, and always strive to oppose the injustices they face and support racial justice.

Step 8) Research where you are spending your money. Are those companies supporting Black Lives Matter and donating to causes? If not, find companies that are.

How different beauty brands are fighting racial injustice

Step 9) Is Black Lives Matter a conversation in your family? If not, you can make it one. Letters for Black Lives is a set of crowdsourced, multilingual, and culturally-aware resources aimed at creating a space for open and honest conversations about racial justice, police violence, and anti-Blackness in our families and communities.

Step 10) If you feel safe, join a protest. If you are attending one, please be careful and considerate of the safety of yourself and those around you. If members of the community are telling you that they do not like how you represent them and their cause, value their perspective and do not invalidate their feelings.

Step 11) Contact those in political office to encourage change! There have been a multitude of these instances in Minnesota, Kentucky, and Georgia concerning very recent police brutality cases. However, these systematic issues are not isolated and thus you can let your region’s representatives know that Black Lives Matter to their constituents. A great resource for this is the Join Zero Campaign .

-----

Our allyship will not stop once social media timelines return back to normal. ASPIRE has stood with the Black community and we will continue to learn, listen, and support in any way possible today, tomorrow, and everyday. We have a story highlight titled “BLM” on our Instagram page for more resources and ways to be better allies. Our Twitter also has similar BLM resources and we'll continue to advocate for Asian American-Black solidarity.

Finally, please don't forget: silence does not inspire change. Conversations and actions do.

Sources used:

Anita Nham: What AAPI Heritage Month means to me

info@girlsaspire.org (ASPIRE null) — Fri, 29 May 2020 15:56:28 GMT

Thanks to Anita for sharing her experience this week!

Hi everyone! My name is Anita Nham, and I am the Marketing Director for ASPIRE. I was previously the Communications Manager in 2018-19.

When I was growing up, I was constantly watching movies and TV shows or reading books, but I never fully realized the desperate lack of Asian American representation in these mediums. I didn't consciously notice any of this until it just grew and grew and became my perception of "normal." Until recently, I could've never imagined seeing prominent Asian book characters and Hollywood actors. When Asian characters, movie stars, and authors started being praised, it was life-changing and transformative. I grew up wishing I was different, but I soon realized my culture should be celebrated and cherished.

I'm grateful that I joined ASPIRE and found this community of amazing Asian American women. I'm extremely thankful to the marketing team for helping to execute a month-long social media campaign throughout May to highlight AAPI Heritage Month. This year's celebration feels even more essential as COVID-19 has unleashed heightened levels of racism towards Asian Americans. Whether it's supporting Asian-owed businesses, participating in Zoom calls with AAPI community members, or creating a safe space via ASPIRING TALKS, it makes me proud that we're honoring Asian heritage as much as we can.

We're all searching for safety in this world of conflict. I hope we all come to realize that our stories matter and feel empowered to share them. I hope we can continue to celebrate all Asian cultures and heritage everyday, and drive towards a vision where we can all appreciate where we come from and navigate towards a better future together.

Some Amazing AAPI Women!

info@girlsaspire.org (ASPIRE null) — Tue, 19 May 2020 16:52:13 GMT

#NotableAAPIWoman

Hi All! If you haven’t noticed, we have been highlighting Asian American women throughout AAPI heritage Month and we hope you’ve enjoyed it.

Today, I wanted to take the opportunity to highlight a few of them throughout society. All of these women are often overlooked by the history books, but have played a crucial role in making the life we live now possible. It is easy to forget how far we’ve come as women of the AAPI community, but so much has changed. Although at times there seem to be so many walls up in society, and hurdles for us to pass, I hope these women inspire you as much as they’ve inspired me.

Cinema: Anna May Wong

Born Wong Liu Tsong in 1905, Anna May Wong was an Asian American trailblazer of Hollywood’s Golden Age. Her first role was as an extra in The Red Lantern in 1919, Wong achieved international stardom by 1924. Frustrated by discrimination in Hollywood and American laws that persecuted interracial relationships prevented Wong from having any romantic lead roles, she chose to leave the United States for Europe. There, she found many roles establishing her name until even the American Paramount Studios called Wong back to the U.S. with the promise of lead roles in the 1930s.

Throughout her career, Wong starred in Broadway productions and became the first Asian American lead in a U.S. TV show. Although she already faced a shortage of roles due to discrimination, Wong refused to conform to stereotypical depictions of Asians. In one instance, she opposed the Asian monolith stereotype when she would not use Japanese mannerisms for a Chinese romantic lead (which sounds much too familiar now). Anna May Wong worked tirelessly to humanize Chinese Americans to White audiences during a period of intense racism and discrimination and lay the foundation for all of the AAPI women to follow.

Politics: Patsy Mink

Born as a third generation Japanese-Hawaiian in 1927, Patsy was elected to congress in 1964 and became the first Asian American Woman as well as Woman of Color in congress. Throughout her life, Mink worked to eradicate the gender and racial discrimination she had experienced both as a Japanese American woman who had chosen to enter into an interracial marriage.

As a congress woman, she co-wrote, sponsored, and secured the passage of Title IX which prohibits gender discrimination by federally funded institution. She also sponsored the first childcare bill, advocated for bilingual education support, student loans, special education and more. She also stood up for AAPI issues including educating Americans on the Japanese Americans’ treatment at internment camps, as well as considering the issues of the Pacific Islands - which Hawaii was part of.

Academia: Isabella Aiona Abbott

Dr.Isabella Aiona Abbott, born 1919, was the first native Hawaiian woman to get a PhD in science in 1950. Dr.Abbott conducted algae research in California and Hawaii and was a Professor of Biological Sciences at Stanford University and the University of Hawaii. Throughout her life, she authored eight books and over 150 publications and discovered over 200 species of Hawaiian seaweeds. She was named a “Living Treasure of Hawai’i” in 2005 and following her death in 2010, the University of Hawai’i established a scholarship to support graduate research in Hawaiian ethnobotany and marine botany under her name.

Science: Kalpana Chalwa

Kaplana Chalwa was an aerospace engineer and astronaut who was the first female AAPI (she was of Indian descent) to go to space. Like Dr. Abbott, she earned her PhD. and worked for NASA where she joined the Astronaut Corps in 1995. She went on her first mission in 1997 and spent over fifteen days in space. Unfortunately she was part of the STS-107 crew on the Space Shuttle Columbia which exploded when it was re-entering the Earth’s atmosphere in 2003. Although she is not here to speak of her experiences, she was posthumously awarded with the Congressional Space Medal of Honor and continues to serve as an inspiration for all women, particularly those of Asian American descent, with interests in aerospace.

Rita Yeung: What AAPI Heritage Month Means To Me

info@girlsaspire.org (ASPIRE null) — Fri, 15 May 2020 18:26:04 GMT

Hello! My name is Rita Yeung and I am the Finance Director of ASPIRE.

As we celebrate Asian Pacific Islander American Heritage Month, it is also a time of reflection and awareness for me personally. Throughout my tenure of being part of the ASPIRE family, this experience has nurtured my personal growth and also allowed me to play an active role in building leadership and identity within our Asian Americans community, especially amongst the Asian American women and girls.

Whether it’s in the realm of the workplace, family or even society in general, we too often hear stories of the struggles that our fellow AA women experience. For me being part of this community, I believe it is my responsibility to advocate and empower us AA women and girls to build our confidence to overcome our obstacles and become strong leaders.

Sophia Lai: What AAPI Heritage Month Means To Me

info@girlsaspire.org (ASPIRE null) — Thu, 07 May 2020 20:53:13 GMT

Get to know the ASPIRE Board throughout AAPI month!

Welcome to our second AAPI Heritage Month post! Throughout the month, we will be sharing a few thoughts from members of our board. Today, we have Sophia Lai, our board chair!

"I am the current Chair on the Board of Directors for ASPIRE. I was previously the Volunteer Director and the 2019 AAWIL Conference Director.

I am proud to be part of a community that celebrates our heritage, because it is important to learn our history and understand how it’s shaped us to be who we are today—as individuals and as part of the society we live in. Diversity is so beautiful and positive, but the recent spike in hurtful words and actions against those perceived as “foreign” and “Asian” indicates that not everyone regards diversity the same way. I am alarmed, because this is a critical time when everyone, no matter their background, should be working together. I believe that no one should ever feel shame for looking or speaking “different”, but unfortunately children and adults are being subject to these attacks. We all need to do our part to counter misinformation, help victims, and prevent hate.

In response, many organizations combating these issues have also risen and it has been reassuring to see their support in others. This year, #AAPIHM is seeing a record amount of activity through virtual events from across the nation. I hope you’ll join at least one, and leave with more knowledge and appreciation than before."

May is AAPI Month!!

info@girlsaspire.org (ASPIRE null) — Sun, 03 May 2020 14:27:06 GMT

Happy Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month!

Happy May! I don't know about you, but April was definitely a blur for me. But, with May comes warm weather (we hope) and AAPI Heritage Month! We hope that our updates on AAPI month can keep you motivated and also give you a sense of time as we go into month two of full on quarantine. To start off, we wanted to share basic information about AAPI month.

Purpose of AAPI Month

This month is meant to celebrate the Asian American Pacific Islander population in the United States. It is also meant to acknowledge both the struggles and contributions of this broad group of people throughout the U.S history. Finally, it is a month to remember how far Asians and Pacific Americans have come and how far we still have yet to go.

History of AAPI Month:

AAPI month was first proposed as setting the first ten days of May as a celebration of the Asian American Pacific Islander population in the United States. The joint resolutions that prompted AAPI week did not pass at the time, which was in 1977. In October, the following year, President Jimmy Carter passed the law acknowledging Asian/Pacific American Week to be held for the first time in 1979. For the next ten years, Presidents observed this tradition until 1990 when Congress expanded Asian/Pacific American Week to a Month. From 1992 onwards, May was Asian American Pacific Islander Month.

How?

Although congressman Frank Horton started the official initiative for AAPI week/month, it was a Capitol Hill staffer who brought it up to him years earlier. In 1976, the United States had its bicentennial, and all Americans were being celebrated - except Asian /Pacific Americans. Previously Black History Month and Hispanic Heritage Week. Another woman who pushed for AAPI recognition was Horton’s Chief Staffer, Ruby Moy.

Why May?

May was the month when the first Japanese immigrants came in 1843. It was also the month when the transcontinental railroad was finished. This was also significant because a majority of those workers were Chinese laborers who were never credited for many years.

Who’s part of the AAPI population?

Asian Americans

An Asian American is an American who traces their heritage back to one or more countries on the Asian continent/Indian subcontinent.

Pacific Islanders

*there are distinctions between Pacific Islanders so here’s the breakdown of subcategories and which islands are under which labels.*

Melanesia
New Guinea
New Caledonia
Vanuatu
Fiji
Solomon Islands
Micronesia
Marianas
Guam
Wake Island
Palau
Marshall Islands
Kiribati
Nauru
Federated States of Micronesia
Polynesia
New Zealand
Hawaiian Islands
Rotuma
Midway Islands
Samoa
American Samoa
Tonga
Tuvalu
Cook Islands
French Polynesia
Easter Island

Some Post-Podcast Listening Thoughts

Thu, 16 Apr 2020 20:02:38 GMT

Miriam's thoughts in these strange times...

It's strange to live in a time where we know that the world is changing forever right under our eyes. Obviously, that happens all the time, and everyday the world is changing, but the next few months of our lives are going to fundamentally change the way we view the world. The way people say pre and post 9.11, or in my case pre and post the 3.11 Earthquake and Tsunami in Northern Japan. But in these times it is important for us to share our thoughts and emotions and this is my attempt to at least start doing so:

One of the things I have been finding the most comfort in during this strange time is the sharing of emotions that has begun to happen via podcasts. There is a new found sense of vulnerability in society that allows us to talk more openly about our lived experiences. As an Asian American, that has meant hearing the experiences of me and those who I love shared to a wider audience, such as through this episode of the NY Times Daily podcast called “I became a person of suspicion”.

It is a conversation with a Chinese American journalist who is vulnerable about her experience as an Asian American both in the time of coronavirus and in general. It is definitely worth a listen and I would love to hear all of your thoughts on it. She talks about the ideal that is passed down to us that we simply blend into American society by doing what is expected. That we are supposed to Ignore the days when you are made to feel like an outside, because not doing so allows the sense that we may feel to get stronger.

I was speaking to my housemate, who happens to be white, about this entry this morning. She said to me that watching this outbreak spread she has been caught off guard by the amount of racism that still exists against Asian Americans. I said to her: “yeah, I wish I could tell you that I was surprised.” Because the reality is that I’m not. Sure, I’m mixed and my experience is different than that of so many, but I always felt the need to break through my “foreignness”. The sense of defeat I felt when I was told that I wasn’t white (even though my father and his entire family is) and the years I spent trying to minimize the fact that I grew up in Tokyo are memories etched into my memory. I wanted to “fit in” in America and for me that meant being White. I didn’t want to say I grew up in Tokyo because I didn’t want to be seen as foreign. But in reality it doesn’t matter where I grew up because at the end of the day, I look different and assumptions would be made either way.

But now, the ways in which Asian Americans are seen as outsiders is in our faces. My best friend who is Taiwanese American prefers not to go shopping because of the way she looks. I have another friend who is mixed and goes shopping in place of her Chinese American girlfriend. That is the reality we live in. A world where the way we look is impacting everything about our lives, as in many ways it always has, but now it is bad enough to catch our attention and get noticed in the media.

In no way am I saying that we have it worse than other people of color because we don’t. But we are being placed in a situation where we can be completely empathetic toward their experiences. We can relate deeper and begin to truly discuss how our country needs to change. We are seen as having brought the virus into the country, but at least we aren’t dying in disproportionate numbers from it. We are still in a place of privilege even if it doesn’t always feel that way.

I hope that after this is all over, the people who are lucky enough to not face racism recognize how widespread it is. That we as Asian Americans can stand up and speak about the impact it has on not only our lives but the lives of so many others across our country. By recognizing the assumptions that are made about us and we make about others everyday, we can find ways to combat it.

I hope that the coronavirus allows us to have more frank conversations with our families about the inequities that we face. Whether it be our elders who try to ignore racism or our white family who isn’t impacted by it in the same way as us. Although I can’t wait for the end of this current reality I do hope that we continue to think about others in the way we have in the past few weeks. That we try to help our neighbors and we reach out to those less fortunate.

I am lucky to be young, employed, and healthy. There is so much I can do for the world. Although I am yet to find what that thing I will do is to help my community, I am in search of it. Because in bad times like these, we need to be able to find a positive take away. TBD on what it will be, but for now what matters is that we are trying to find it.

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