Right now there is a lot of hate and a lot of sadness in the world. So, what can you do to genuinely support women and Asian Americans instead of being a mere slacktivist?
Here’s the problem I have with social media “activism”. Some of it is genuine, helpful information, educating the public on important ways they can take action to support women and Asian Americans, especially women of colour and Asian American women. However, a lot of the time we post on social media to show support, but there is no significant impact, a mark is barely made. Yes, it makes you look good, it appears to prove that you aren’t racist, misogynistic, xenophobic, but to call ourselves allies and activists we first need to take action in our own lives. If you are posting on social media, good for you, that is a step in the right direction. But we all need to take it further. Creating change starts with us, it starts with the people we spend time with, those we see in real life, and those that will listen to you. You have the power to shift the mindsets of those directly around you. So how do you do this?
First of all, call out inappropriate behaviour when you see it, no matter who it’s coming from. If you see or hear somebody perpetuating any form of violence or harassment against women or Asian Americans (or anybody for that matter!!!), intervene. If you have the opportunity, discuss with this person why the behaviour is wrong. If the situation is escalating, report the incident. As a bystander, you have the responsibility of speaking up when you know an action is wrong.
A discriminatory/ offensive comment or behaviour does not even need to set a discussion in motion. Talk with your friends and family about these issues. Ask them about their points of views, discuss the dangerous impacts of misogynistic and xenophobic behaviour, and most importantly, talk about the small ways everyone can help advocate for women’s and Asian American rights. This starts with each individual. Maybe this means catching yourself when you realize you have judged, stereotyped, or sexualized a woman for the way she dresses or acts. Maybe it means educating yourself about the terrifying levels of racist hate crimes against Asian Americans, especially since the beginning of COVID-19. Maybe this means listening to podcasts, watching shows, reading books and articles by and about women, and especially by and about women of colour and Asian descent. Main idea: educate yourself!!!
Finally, donate to organizations if you are able to, sign petitions, spread mental health resources (you can find plenty of charities, petitions, and resources linked in the bios and posts of instagram accounts such as @annie_wu_22, @shityoushouldcareabout, @thefemaleactivists, @aafc.nyc), and check in on your female and Asian friends, family, neighbours. Listen to those who have the experience. Use the privilege you have to advocate for their rights. We stand as one.
